Cost of Living in Gallatin County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Gallatin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Gallatin County ranks #148 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 5%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Gallatin County, Illinois
Gallatin County delivers rare rental bargain
Renters in Gallatin County spend just 11.0% of their income on housing—among the lowest ratios in this entire comparison and well below the national comfort threshold of 30%. The $500 monthly rent is exceptional for Illinois, though paired with a below-average median income of $54,626, it still requires careful budgeting.
Illinois's most affordable rental market
Gallatin County's 11.0% rent-to-income ratio and $500 median rent represent exceptional value compared to Illinois's state average of 14.7% for affordability and $837 for rent. The county stands out as a genuine affordability bright spot in a state increasingly stretched by housing costs.
Unmatched rental affordability regionally
Gallatin's $500 monthly rent is dramatically cheaper than all neighbors—$234 below Effingham ($734), $271 below Franklin ($771), and a remarkable $336 below Ford ($836). The 11.0% rent-to-income ratio edges out even Effingham (11.7%), making Gallatin the region's affordability leader.
Ultra-low rents offset modest wages
Gallatin households earn $54,626 annually, dedicating just $500 monthly to rent (11.0% of income)—nearly half the national average household housing burden. Owner costs of $572 monthly and a median home value of $84,700 preserve this county's status as Illinois's most affordable housing market.
Gallatin for renters prioritizing savings
If lowest rent is your priority, Gallatin County is unbeatable in Illinois—$500 monthly leaves room for savings or other needs impossible elsewhere in this comparison. Verify job market strength and services before moving, as low costs sometimes reflect economic challenges, but the rental bargain is undeniable.
Cost of Living Advisory: Gallatin County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Gallatin County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $500/month in gross rent, with 19.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Gallatin County is $500/month, while owner costs run $572/month. Renting saves approximately $72/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $20,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $24,514/year. With a median household income of $54,626, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 19.0% of renter households in Gallatin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Illinois, Gallatin County is more affordable than Pope County by roughly 14% ($500/mo vs $438/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Gallatin County
Rent Burden
11.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,275
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Gallatin County
Median home value is $84,700. Estimated monthly cost: $676 vs. your max of $1,275.
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 Gallatin County, Illinois?
What is the median rent in Gallatin County?
Is Gallatin County affordable?
How does Gallatin County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Gallatin County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Gallatin County, Illinois? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Gallatin 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.