Cost of Living in Hamilton County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hamilton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hamilton County ranks #106 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 3%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hamilton County, Illinois
Hamilton County rents are remarkably affordable
At just 11.0%, Hamilton County's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national standard of 30% affordability and beats the state average of 14.7%. Renters here spend significantly less of their paychecks on housing than typical Americans, making it one of Illinois's most accessible rental markets.
Among Illinois's most affordable counties
Hamilton County ranks in the lower tier of housing costs statewide, with residents paying $566 monthly for rent compared to Illinois's $837 average. The county's 11.0% rent-to-income ratio places it well ahead of most other Illinois counties in overall affordability.
Cheaper rents than surrounding counties
Hamilton County's $566 median rent undercuts neighbors Hancock ($755) and Henderson ($834) by $189–$268 monthly. Even when factoring in lower median incomes, Hamilton residents enjoy greater housing affordability than their counterparts in adjacent areas.
Rent stays lean at 11% of income
With median household income of $61,520 and median gross rent of $566, housing costs consume just 11% of typical household budgets. Homeowners pay $661 monthly on properties valued near $109,000, leaving substantial room for other expenses.
Seeking true housing affordability?
If you're prioritizing low rent-to-income ratios and stretching modest incomes further, Hamilton County delivers. Compare its 11% rent burden against state and national benchmarks—your wallet will feel the difference immediately.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hamilton County
Affordability Verdict
Hamilton County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $566/month — about 11.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Hamilton County is $566/month, while owner costs run $661/month. Renting saves approximately $95/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $22,640/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $28,329/year. With a median household income of $61,520, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 19.0% of renter households in Hamilton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Pulaski County where rent averages $625/month, Hamilton County is approximately 9% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hamilton County
Rent Burden
11.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,435
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Hamilton County
Median home value is $108,800. Estimated monthly cost: $869 vs. your max of $1,435.
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
What is the cost of living in Hamilton County, Illinois?
What is the median rent in Hamilton County?
Is Hamilton County affordable?
How does Hamilton County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Hamilton County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
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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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