Cost of Living in Adams County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Adams County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Adams County, Illinois
Adams rents bite harder than average
Adams County renters spend 15.3% of income on rent, outpacing the national average of 14.7%. With a median household income of $64,962—nearly $10,000 below the national median—residents here stretch further to afford housing than typical American households.
Above average for Illinois renters
Adams County's 15.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks slightly above Illinois's state average of 14.7%, placing it in the middle tier of affordability among the state's 102 counties. Median rent of $826 runs roughly even with the statewide median of $837.
Surrounded by tight housing markets
Adams County's $826 rent sits between neighbor Cass County and larger regional markets. Similar-sized Illinois counties show comparable affordability challenges, with most rent-to-income ratios clustering between 14–16%.
Rent eats more than ownership
At $826 monthly, rent takes up a larger share of income (15.3%) than mortgage payments do (13.7% at $891/month), reflecting lower home values around $155,900. For renters, the math is tighter: homeowners can leverage equity, while renters have no financial cushion.
Consider your renter vs. buyer status
If you're thinking of relocating to Adams County, homebuying looks slightly more favorable than renting given the gap in cost ratios. Compare your own income and savings against these benchmarks to determine whether this county's housing market fits your budget.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Adams County
Rent Burden
15.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,516
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Adams County
Median home value is $155,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,245 vs. your max of $1,516.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.