Cost of Living in Ford County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Ford County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Ford County, Illinois
Ford County rents strain local wages
Renters in Ford County spend 16.5% of their $60,782 median income on rent—above the national 30% comfort threshold and exceeding most peer counties. The $836 monthly rent is the highest among our comparison group, placing unexpected pressure on a below-average income base.
Below-average in Illinois affordability rankings
Ford County's 16.5% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Illinois's state average of 14.7%, indicating tighter housing affordability than most of the state. The mismatch between local rents and incomes suggests limited job-market opportunity relative to housing costs.
Highest rents in the region
Ford County's $836 monthly rent tops all nearby counties—$102 more than Effingham ($734), $36 more than Fulton ($808), and $28 more than Franklin ($771). Yet median incomes lag Effingham and Grundy, making Ford's rent burden among the highest in this comparison group.
Rent outpaces local economic capacity
Ford County households earn $60,782 annually but face $836 monthly rents (16.5% of income) and $864 mortgage costs, stretching tight budgets. The median home value of $118,100 adds to the challenge, as local wages lag behind what homeownership typically requires.
Ford requires strong income to work
Ford County makes sense only if you're relocating with a salary above local medians or own property outright, as rents and home costs exceed what typical local incomes support. Compare with Fayette (lower rents), Effingham (better wages), or Gallatin (cheapest rents) if affordability is your priority.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Ford County
Rent Burden
16.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,418
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Ford County
Median home value is $118,100. Estimated monthly cost: $943 vs. your max of $1,418.
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.