Cost of Living in Calhoun County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Calhoun County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Calhoun County ranks #370 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 12%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Calhoun County, Illinois
Exceptional affordability, highest income
Calhoun County achieves a remarkable 6.2% rent-to-income ratio—less than half the national average of 14.7%—backed by the highest median household income in this sample at $92,095. At just $479 monthly, rent is by far the cheapest in the group.
Unmatched affordability in Illinois
Calhoun County's 6.2% rent-to-income ratio is exceptional compared to Illinois's state average of 14.7%, creating extraordinary housing relief for residents. The $479 median rent is 43% cheaper than the statewide median of $837.
Rural oasis in price-conscious region
Calhoun County's $479 rent stands as the lowest by far in this eight-county sample, reflecting its small size and rural setting. This makes it an outlier for bargain hunters, though employment options may be more limited.
Historic low housing burden
At just $479 monthly, rent claims only 6.2% of income, leaving residents 8.5 percentage points better off than the national average. Even homeowners at $924 (12.0%) achieve exceptional affordability, making Calhoun County a housing-cost paradise.
Extraordinary value for the right fit
If you can secure employment in or near Calhoun County, the housing affordability is unbeatable—residents save thousands annually on shelter costs compared to national norms. Verify local job availability before relocating to this remote but remarkably affordable market.
Cost of Living Advisory: Calhoun County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Calhoun County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $479/month in gross rent, with 23.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $479/month rent versus $924/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $445/month cheaper — a 48% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $19,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $39,600/year. With a median household income of $92,095, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Calhoun County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Illinois, Calhoun County is less affordable than Alexander County by roughly 11% ($479/mo vs $540/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Calhoun County
Rent Burden
6.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,149
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Calhoun County
Median home value is $174,000. Estimated monthly cost: $1,389 vs. your max of $2,149.
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 Calhoun County, Illinois?
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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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