Cost of Living in Franklin County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Franklin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Franklin County ranks #980 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 31%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Franklin County, Illinois
Franklin County faces affordability crunch
Renters in Franklin County dedicate 17.3% of their median income to housing—the highest ratio among all counties in this comparison and well above the national comfort threshold. The median income of $53,471 falls $21,000 below the national average, while $771 monthly rents consume an outsized share of limited wages.
Among Illinois's least affordable counties
Franklin County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds Illinois's state average of 14.7%, placing it among the state's housing-stressed communities. The gap reflects structural income challenges common in southern Illinois coal-country economies.
Most stretched budget in the region
Franklin County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio tops all neighbors—exceeding Fayette (15.6%), Fulton (16.5%), and Ford (16.5%), while rents ($771) fall mid-range. The combination of low incomes and mid-level rents creates the region's most constrained household budgets.
Housing dominates household budgets
Franklin County residents earn just $53,471 annually but allocate $771 monthly toward rent (17.3% of income) or $652 for mortgages, leaving minimal room for savings or emergencies. The median home value of $87,700 is lowest in the comparison, reflecting depressed property values tied to economic conditions.
Franklin best for remote workers or pensioners
Franklin County's lowest home values ($87,700) and modest rents make it attractive only if you bring stable income from outside—remote work, retirement, or relocation with an existing job. Compare with Gallatin County (similarly low rent) or Effingham (stronger wage prospects) before committing.
Cost of Living Advisory: Franklin County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Franklin County is affordable. The median rent is $771/month against a median household income of $53,471, putting rent at 17.3% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Franklin County pay $771/month on average, compared to $652/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 15%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,840/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $27,943/year. With a median household income of $53,471, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Franklin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Illinois, Franklin County is less affordable than Adams County by roughly 7% ($771/mo vs $826/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Franklin County
Rent Burden
17.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,248
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Franklin County
Median home value is $87,700. Estimated monthly cost: $700 vs. your max of $1,248.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Franklin County, Illinois?
What is the median rent in Franklin County?
Is Franklin County affordable?
How does Franklin County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Franklin County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Franklin County, Illinois? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Franklin County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.