Cost of Living in Coles County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Coles County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Coles County, Illinois
Coles County housing strains household budgets
Renters here spend 17.0% of income on housing—above the Illinois average of 14.7% and a sign of affordability stress. The $56,040 median household income falls significantly below both state and national medians, amplifying the burden of the $793 monthly rent.
One of Illinois's least affordable counties
Coles County ranks among the state's worst affordability cases with a 17.0% rent-to-income ratio, exceeded only by Champaign (19.4%) and Cook (20.3%). The combination of below-average income and above-average rents creates consistent housing pressure on working families.
High rents on low income spell trouble
Coles County's $793 rent exceeds most rural neighbors like Cass ($723), Christian ($729), and Clay ($709), while its $56,040 income falls below all of them. This unfavorable mix explains the county's 17.0% burden—the worst among non-university, non-metro counties profiled.
Both housing types strain low-income households
Renters spend $793 monthly and homeowners $830, both significant relative to the $56,040 median income. The $121,900 median home value makes ownership viable only for households well above the median, leaving many renters permanently cost-burdened.
Coles County demands caution for relocators
Before moving to Coles County, understand its 17.0% rent burden ranks among Illinois's worst and that incomes average just $56,040. Compare it against nearby Cass (13.4% burden, $64,907 income) or Clark (14.1% burden, $70,625 income) to see if the location truly fits your financial situation.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Coles County
Rent Burden
17.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,308
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Coles County
Median home value is $121,900. Estimated monthly cost: $973 vs. your max of $1,308.
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.