Cost of Living in Brown County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Brown County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Brown County ranks #79 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 3%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Brown County, Illinois
Best affordability ratio in sample
Brown County residents spend just 12.0% of income on rent—more than 2 percentage points below the national average of 14.7%—making it the most affordable county among these eight. Despite a median income of $72,288 (below the national average), the exceptionally low $724 rent creates significant housing relief.
Standout value in Illinois
Brown County's 12.0% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest in this sample and substantially below Illinois's state average of 14.7%. Median rent of $724 runs about $113 below the statewide median, offering renters material savings.
Rural charm, rural prices
Brown County's $724 rent is among the cheapest in this group, reflecting its smaller size and rural character compared to more urbanized counties. This affordability advantage extends across both rental and ownership markets.
Renting and buying both affordable
Renters spend 12.0% of income on $724 rent, the lowest ratio of all eight counties; homeowners pay $834 monthly (13.8%) on homes valued around $142,200. This county achieves rare balance, making both tenure options accessible.
Maximum housing value, minimal strain
Brown County is the standout choice for budget-conscious relocators seeking the lowest housing-to-income burden. Explore the community's amenities, schools, and job landscape to confirm it meets your lifestyle needs before committing.
Cost of Living Advisory: Brown County
Affordability Verdict
Brown County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $724/month — about 12.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Brown County pay $724/month on average, compared to $834/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 13%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,960/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,743/year. With a median household income of $72,288, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Brown County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Brown County sits 7% less expensive than Washington County ($776/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Brown County
Rent Burden
12.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,687
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Brown County
Median home value is $142,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,135 vs. your max of $1,687.
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
What is the cost of living in Brown County, Illinois?
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Counties with Similar Housing Costs
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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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