Cost of Living in Greene County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Greene County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Greene County ranks #562 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 18%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Greene County, Illinois
Greene County rents nibble at wages
Renters in Greene County spend 15.7% of their $60,976 median income on housing—above the national comfort threshold but moderate for downstate Illinois. The $800 monthly rent is mid-range compared to peers, and local incomes slightly exceed several neighboring counties, offering modest breathing room.
Slightly above Illinois affordability average
Greene County's 15.7% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Illinois's state average of 14.7%, placing it in the middle tier of state affordability rankings. Rents at $800 remain below the state median of $837, suggesting the affordability gap reflects local wage patterns rather than excessive costs.
Competitive middle ground regionally
Greene County's 15.7% rent-to-income ratio nearly matches Fayette (15.6%) and sits comfortably below Ford (16.5%) and Franklin (17.3%), while its $800 rent falls between Fulton ($808) and Fayette ($740). The county offers regional balance without standing out as exceptionally affordable or expensive.
Wages support modest rental standards
Greene households earn $60,976 annually, directing $800 monthly toward rent (15.7% of income) or $709 for mortgages, leaving room for other obligations. The median home value of $94,400 remains accessible for buyers with typical local incomes, though still represents a commitment.
Greene offers reliable middle-ground option
Greene County appeals if you want modest affordability and stable local incomes without seeking extremes—it's affordable than Effingham yet more stable than Franklin. Compare with Fayette for similar ratios or Gallatin if you prioritize rock-bottom rent above other factors.
Cost of Living Advisory: Greene County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Greene County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $800/month in gross rent, with 22.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $800/month rent versus $709/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $91/month cheaper — a 11% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,386/year. With a median household income of $60,976, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Greene County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Illinois, Greene County is less affordable than Lee County by roughly 6% ($800/mo vs $853/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Greene County
Rent Burden
15.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,423
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Greene County
Median home value is $94,400. Estimated monthly cost: $754 vs. your max of $1,423.
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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