Population Government data
The Champaign area's population grew 1.5% from 2020 to 2025 (236,429 → 239,979), ranking #234 of 387 metros for growth (typical metro +2.5%). People moving in (net +1,661) account for part of the change.
Census Bureau population estimates, July 1 of each year, 2020–2025.
New homes permitted Government data
New-home permits in Champaign are up 48% from 2021 to 2025 (616 → 913). Permits are a sign of construction activity, not a count of open jobs.
Census Building Permits Survey, annual 2021–2025.
Local housing Government data
The Champaign area has about 110,136 homes. 54% were built before 1980 (typical metro 45%), so its housing is older than most; 14% were built in 2010 or later. Older homes often need more repair, replacement and upgrade work. 56% of households own their home, and the median home value is $216,500.
Census American Community Survey, 2024 1-year estimates (table DP04).
Highest-paying trades
All 25 trades
Click a column to sort. Jobs are employment estimates, not open positions.
| Trade | Median pay | Jobs | U.S. rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $100,320 | 410 | #6 |
| Construction Supervisor | $96,940 | 370 | #36 |
| Plumber | $95,530 | 390 | #10 |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $92,900 | 160 | #18 |
| Sheet Metal Worker | $92,710 | 110 | #11 |
| Painter | $84,370 | 160 | #1 |
| Brickmason | $83,250 | 40 | #15 |
| Ironworker | $82,480 | 30 | #30 |
| HVAC Technician | $74,880 | 240 | #35 |
| Concrete Finisher | $74,660 | 110 | #22 |
| Industrial Machinery Mechanic | $74,420 | 70 | #69 |
| Building Inspector | $73,350 | 70 | #120 |
| Carpenter | $66,980 | 310 | #50 |
| Diesel Mechanic | $62,180 | 160 | #129 |
| Telecom Line Installer | $61,880 | 60 | #154 |
| Telecom Equipment Installer | $61,420 | 100 | #188 |
| Roofer | $60,150 | 70 | #66 |
| Construction Laborer | $59,460 | 570 | #35 |
| Machinist | $58,910 | 100 | #136 |
| Auto Body Repairer | $56,230 | 70 | #123 |
| Maintenance Technician | $55,260 | 1,290 | #60 |
| Welder | $48,610 | 100 | #297 |
| Auto Mechanic | $48,090 | 460 | #234 |
| Pest Control Technician | $44,990 | 30 | #100 |
| Landscaper | $38,270 | 660 | #153 |
Pay: BLS OEWS, May 2025 (metro-level). Real pay: BEA price parities, 2024. How we calculate
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