Cost of Living in Clark County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Clark County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Clark County ranks #1,028 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 33%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Clark County, Illinois
Clark County offers strong housing affordability
At 14.1% of income spent on rent, Clark County residents enjoy affordability that beats both the Illinois average (14.7%) and national norms. With a median household income of $70,625—stronger than most rural Illinois peers—the $828 monthly rent burden remains comparatively light.
Above-average income lifts affordability
Clark County ranks among Illinois's more affordable rentals, combining the state's second-highest median income ($70,625) with rents just $9 below the state average. This income advantage translates directly into the county's impressive 14.1% rent-to-income ratio.
Best balance of income and rent costs
Clark County's $828 rent and $70,625 income offer the strongest affordability ratio among central Illinois neighbors, outperforming Coles ($793 rent on $56,040 income) and Christian ($729 rent on $59,253 income). The county's economic resilience reflects a diversified small-town base rather than single-industry reliance.
Manageable costs across both housing types
Renters spend $828 monthly and homeowners $871—a narrow spread reflecting consistent affordability across tenancy types. At $123,100 median home value and $70,625 household income, both groups experience housing burdens well within sustainable ranges.
Clark County rewards relocators seeking balance
Looking to move to Illinois with strong income prospects? Clark County combines above-average wages with below-average housing burdens—a rare combination. Its 14.1% rent ratio beats Cass (13.4%, but lower income), Christian (14.8%), and Coles (17.0%), making it a smart choice for budget-conscious newcomers.
Cost of Living Advisory: Clark County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Clark County is affordable. The median rent is $828/month against a median household income of $70,625, putting rent at 14.1% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Clark County pay $828/month on average, compared to $871/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 5%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $33,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $37,329/year. With a median household income of $70,625, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Clark County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Illinois, Clark County is more affordable than Washington County by roughly 7% ($828/mo vs $776/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Clark County
Rent Burden
14.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,648
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Clark County
Median home value is $123,100. Estimated monthly cost: $983 vs. your max of $1,648.
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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