Cost of Living in Hardin County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hardin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hardin County, Illinois
Hardin County: Illinois's most affordable rents
At just 7.2%, Hardin County's rent-to-income ratio is exceptionally low—less than one-quarter of the national 30% affordability standard and less than half Illinois's 14.7% state average. This southern Illinois county stands out as a housing bargain destination.
The most affordable county in Illinois
Hardin County's $342 median monthly rent is the lowest across the state, nearly 60% below Illinois's $837 average. The county's 7.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks it as unquestionably the state's most accessible rental market.
Dramatically cheaper than all neighbors
Hardin County's $342 median rent undercuts even Hamilton County—the next-most-affordable in this group—by $224 monthly. No adjacent county comes close to matching Hardin's remarkable rental affordability.
Just 7.2% of income goes to rent
With median household income of $57,155 and median gross rent of $342, housing consumes a tiny slice of typical household budgets. Homeowners pay $568 monthly on properties valued around $91,700, offering rural affordability for both renters and buyers.
Maximum housing affordability awaits here
If cutting housing costs is your priority, Hardin County offers unmatched savings—your rent payment leaves vastly more room for savings and other needs. Rural living and unbeatable affordability combine here more dramatically than anywhere else in Illinois.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hardin County
Rent Burden
7.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,334
per month
Owner Cost Burden
11.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Hardin County
Median home value is $91,700. Estimated monthly cost: $732 vs. your max of $1,334.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Hardin County, Illinois?
What is the median rent in Hardin County?
Is Hardin County affordable?
How does Hardin County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Hardin County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Hardin County, Illinois? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Hardin 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.