Cost of Living in Jackson County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jackson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jackson County ranks #2,820 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 10%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jackson County, Illinois
Jackson County faces serious housing affordability crisis
At 19.6%, Jackson County's rent-to-income ratio is nearly 4× the national 30% affordability standard's threshold and significantly exceeds Illinois's 14.7% state average. This southern Illinois county has the highest housing cost burden of any in this comparison, reflecting both lower incomes and moderate rents.
Most strained housing market in Illinois
Jackson County's median household income of $45,572 is the lowest in this group, while its $746 rent is near the state average—creating the worst affordability crisis statewide. The county's 19.6% rent-to-income ratio dramatically exceeds the Illinois average of 14.7%.
Lowest income, severe affordability pressure
Jackson County's $45,572 median income trails every neighbor in this group, yet its $746 rent sits near regional averages, creating the worst burden ratio. No nearby county faces comparable housing cost pressure relative to income.
Housing consumes nearly 20% of income
With median household income of $45,572, Jackson County residents pay $746 monthly in rent (19.6% of income) and $840 for homeownership. This severe burden leaves little room for savings, transportation, food, and other essentials—a genuine affordability crisis.
Relocating here requires serious financial review
Jackson County's severe housing affordability crisis demands careful consideration before moving—renters and owners both face significantly tighter budgets here. Unless your income substantially exceeds the county median, housing costs will consume an uncomfortable portion of your paycheck.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jackson County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Jackson County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $746/month in gross rent, with 30.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $746/month rent versus $840/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $94/month cheaper — a 11% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,840/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,000/year. With a median household income of $45,572, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Jackson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Macon County where rent averages $797/month, Jackson County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jackson County
Rent Burden
19.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,063
per month
Owner Cost Burden
22.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jackson County
Median home value is $125,000. Estimated monthly cost: $998 vs. your max of $1,063.
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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