Cost of Living in Grundy County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Grundy County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Grundy County ranks #2,106 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 33%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Grundy County, Illinois
Grundy County highest earners in region
Renters in Grundy County earn a median of $93,060—$18,000 above the national average—and spend 14.7% of income on housing, right at Illinois's state average. At $1,137 monthly rent, Grundy is the most expensive among these eight counties, yet strong wages mean it remains the most financially stable option regionally.
Higher costs, higher incomes in Illinois
Grundy County's 14.7% rent-to-income ratio matches Illinois's state average exactly, despite rents running 36% above the state median of $837. The match reflects Grundy's fundamental advantage: household incomes significantly outpace state and national norms, enabling support for higher housing costs.
Premium prices for premium incomes
Grundy County's $1,137 monthly rent and $93,060 median income dwarf all neighbors—rents run $300+ above most peers, yet incomes exceed every county by $20,000-plus. The county represents a different housing market entirely: higher wages supporting higher costs, with strong affordability relative to income.
High costs justified by strong wages
Grundy households earn $93,060 annually, dedicating $1,137 monthly to rent (14.7% of income) and $1,573 to mortgages, with the median home value reaching $259,200. Despite the highest absolute costs in this comparison, the rent-to-income ratio remains sustainable due to exceptional local wages.
Grundy for those with strong careers
Grundy County is worth considering only if you're relocating with a job matching or exceeding its $93,060 median income—otherwise, housing costs will overwhelm your budget. Its superior affordability ratio and home values reflect a stronger economic base; compare with Effingham if your income falls short of Grundy's premium.
Cost of Living Advisory: Grundy County
Affordability Verdict
Grundy County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,137/month representing approximately 14.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Grundy County pay $1,137/month on average, compared to $1,573/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 28%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $45,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $67,414/year. With a median household income of $93,060, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Grundy County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Grundy County sits 6% more expensive than Kankakee County ($1,075/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Grundy County
Rent Burden
14.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,171
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Grundy County
Median home value is $259,200. Estimated monthly cost: $2,069 vs. your max of $2,171.
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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