Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jefferson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jefferson County, Illinois
Jefferson County rents strain budgets
Renters in Jefferson County spend 16.9% of household income on rent, higher than the U.S. average of about 15%. With a median household income of $61,102—nearly $14,000 below the national median—housing costs consume a meaningful share of paychecks here.
Above Illinois average on affordability stress
Jefferson County's 16.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks above Illinois's 14.7% state average, placing it in the less affordable tier among Illinois counties. Median rent of $862 is slightly higher than the state median of $837, yet household incomes lag behind state peers.
More expensive than southern Illinois peers
Jefferson County's $862 rent and $834 monthly owner cost exceed those in Knox County ($725 rent, $814 owner cost) to the north. Compared to Johnson County's bargain rent of $634, Jefferson residents pay roughly 36% more to rent.
Where Jefferson County dollars go
Renters average $862/month while homeowners pay $834/month, with both groups committing roughly one-sixth of income to housing. The median home value of $118,400 remains modest, but paired with lower household incomes, it still strains budgets relative to state averages.
Weighing options in Southern Illinois
If affordability is your priority, Johnson County offers lower rents ($634) and similar owner costs. For slightly more housing stock and comparable prices, explore Knox County or neighboring regions where your dollar stretches further.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jefferson County
Rent Burden
16.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,426
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jefferson County
Median home value is $118,400. Estimated monthly cost: $945 vs. your max of $1,426.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.