Cost of Living in Cumberland County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Cumberland County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Cumberland County ranks #443 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 14%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Cumberland County, Illinois
Cumberland beats national housing affordability
With a 13.0% rent-to-income ratio, Cumberland County renters spend less than the national average and significantly less than most U.S. households. The county's median household income of $69,826 pairs with modest $756 monthly rent, making housing one of the region's biggest financial advantages.
Among Illinois's most affordable counties
Cumberland ranks as one of Illinois's strongest performers on housing affordability, with a 13.0% rent-to-income ratio well below the state average of 14.7%. At $756 per month, the median rent trails the state average by $81, offering genuine savings for renters statewide.
Slightly cheaper than surrounding counties
Cumberland's $756 rent is virtually tied with Crawford County ($761) and Edgar County ($757), anchoring this rural region's affordability. The nearby college town of DeKalb County pushes significantly higher at $1,041 monthly, reflecting different economic drivers in that market.
Renters and buyers both see savings
Cumberland renters allocate just 13.0% of their $69,826 median income to the $756 monthly rent, leaving substantial room in household budgets. Homeowners pay $785 monthly on properties valued at $117,700, offering a gentle entry point into ownership for working families.
Strong affordability draws smart relocators
Cumberland delivers genuine housing affordability without sacrificing access to rural community life and stability. Families relocating from expensive metros should compare these costs to Illinois's pricier counties to understand their purchasing power gain.
Cost of Living Advisory: Cumberland County
Affordability Verdict
Cumberland County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $756/month — about 13.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $756/month rent versus $785/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $29/month cheaper — a 4% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $33,643/year. With a median household income of $69,826, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Cumberland County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Illinois, Cumberland County is less affordable than Fulton County by roughly 6% ($756/mo vs $808/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Cumberland County
Rent Burden
13.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,629
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Cumberland County
Median home value is $117,700. Estimated monthly cost: $940 vs. your max of $1,629.
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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