Cost of Living in Alexander County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Alexander County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Alexander County ranks #425 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 14%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Alexander County, Illinois
Lowest-income county, affordable rents
Alexander County's median household income of $43,523 ranks among Illinois's lowest, but renters catch a break: the 14.9% rent-to-income ratio stays just under the national average of 14.7%. At $540 monthly, median rent is dramatically cheaper than the U.S. typical.
Well-positioned in state affordability
Despite the lowest median income in this sample, Alexander County's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio sits close to Illinois's 14.7% state average. At $540/month, rent costs about 35% less than the statewide median of $837.
Least expensive rental market nearby
Alexander County's $540 median rent is substantially lower than adjacent counties, making it the budget choice in southern Illinois. This ultra-affordable renter market is offset by lower incomes, creating both opportunity and vulnerability.
Rent and mortgages both modest
At $540/month, rent claims 14.9% of income, while homeownership costs $570 monthly (15.7% of income)—a rare case where renting and buying are nearly equally affordable. Median home values hover around $58,700, the lowest in this county sample.
Bargain housing, but budget carefully
Alexander County offers the cheapest housing in this sample, attracting those prioritizing low rent or purchase prices. However, the county's low median income signals limited job opportunities; confirm employment prospects before relocating.
Cost of Living Advisory: Alexander County
Affordability Verdict
Alexander County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $540/month representing approximately 14.9% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 25.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $540/month rent versus $570/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $30/month cheaper — a 5% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $21,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $24,429/year. With a median household income of $43,523, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Alexander County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Calhoun County where rent averages $479/month, Alexander County is approximately 13% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Alexander County
Rent Burden
14.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,016
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Alexander County
Median home value is $58,700. Estimated monthly cost: $469 vs. your max of $1,016.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
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.
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