Cost of Living in Crawford County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Crawford County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Crawford County ranks #1,341 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 43%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Crawford County, Illinois
Crawford keeps housing costs reasonable
Renters in Crawford County spend just 13.5% of their income on rent, beating the national average and staying well below what most Americans pay. With a median household income of $67,614—slightly below the U.S. median of $74,755—residents still find housing within reach compared to pricier metro areas.
Crawford ranks well statewide
Crawford's 13.5% rent-to-income ratio ranks favorably across Illinois, where the state average sits at 14.7%. The county's median rent of $761 per month also undercuts Illinois's state average of $837, making it one of the more affordable corners of the state.
Competitive with nearby counties
Crawford's $761 median rent is nearly identical to Cumberland County ($756) and Edgar County ($757), offering similar affordability to renters across this rural region. Housing costs climb sharply in neighboring DeKalb County, where renters pay $1,041 per month and face an 18.1% rent-to-income squeeze.
Both renting and buying cost less here
Crawford renters pay an average of $761 monthly, while homeowners spend $796 on mortgages—both figures reflect modest housing expenses relative to the $67,614 median household income. With a median home value of $113,700, ownership remains accessible for those ready to build equity.
Consider Crawford if affordability matters
If you're seeking rural Illinois living without breaking the budget, Crawford offers stable housing costs across both rental and ownership markets. Compare these numbers to pricier Illinois counties like DuPage ($1,628 rent, 17.7% ratio) to see your potential savings.
Cost of Living Advisory: Crawford County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Crawford County is affordable. The median rent is $761/month against a median household income of $67,614, putting rent at 13.5% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $761/month rent versus $796/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $35/month cheaper — a 4% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $34,114/year. With a median household income of $67,614, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 20.0% of renter households in Crawford County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Morgan County where rent averages $710/month, Crawford County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Crawford County
Rent Burden
13.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,578
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Crawford County
Median home value is $113,700. Estimated monthly cost: $908 vs. your max of $1,578.
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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