Same-Sex Households in Illinois Increased 40 Percent Between 2000 and 2010

By Nottage and Ward on August 12, 2011

The Chicago Tribune reports that the number of gay and lesbian households in the state has significantly increased during the past 10 years, a reflection of social changes making it easier for couples to be in a same-sex relationship openly.

According to data from the 2010 U.S. Census Bureau, the number of same-sex households in Illinois has increased by over 40 percent from 2000 to 2010. Interestingly, the numbers of these types of households were high in Chicago, as well as in the suburbs. For example, in Aurora, there was an 80 percent increase, with 463 same-sex households in 2010. In Chicago, there was a 25 percent increase, from 9,412 in 2000 to 11,715 in 2010.

The data for Illinois also showed a noteworthy difference regarding the overall increase of male couples as compared to female couples. While there was a 32 percent increase in male couples, there was a 53 percent increase in female couples in Illinois.

Also of note, the census data showed that there were 5,346 children under the age of 18 residing in female same-sex households, while 3,030 children under the age of 18 are residing in male same-sex households. Recently, there has been a debate as to whether Catholic Charities, a religious adoptions agency, should be required to permit same-sex couples to adopt through their agency.

The article notes that many believe that the acceptance of gay and lesbian couples has grown in the United States since the last census in 2000. Evidence of this are laws in more than 10 states that permit same-sex marriages or civil unions, as well as a higher number of gay characters on television and in movies.

If you are considering entering into a civil union in Illinois, you may have many questions in relation to insurance benefits and other financial issues. Contact the Chicago civil union lawyers at Nottage and Ward to learn more about the new law as well as its potential impact on your life. Call 312-332-2915 to speak with one of our knowledgeable attorneys today.