Cost of Living in Jo Daviess County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jo Daviess County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jo Daviess County ranks #518 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 16%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jo Daviess County, Illinois
Jo Daviess County matches national affordability
Jo Daviess County renters spend 12.7% of income on rent, just below the U.S. average of roughly 15%. With household income of $74,954—nearly matching the national median of $74,755—housing costs here track closely with national norms, offering stability for middle-income households.
Better than Illinois average, above state median rent
Jo Daviess County's 12.7% rent-to-income ratio beats Illinois's 14.7% state average, positioning it in the more affordable tier. Though median rent of $795 sits just below the state median of $837, housing costs remain manageable relative to income.
Competitive with Jersey County next door
Jo Daviess County's $795 rent and $1,063 owner cost are nearly identical to Jersey County ($794 rent, $1,013 owner cost), though Jo Daviess median home values reach $193,900 compared to Jersey's $168,800. Both counties offer similar rent affordability with Jo Daviess favoring higher-value properties.
Housing costs in Jo Daviess County
Renters pay $795/month while homeowners average $1,063/month, representing roughly 13% and 17% of household income respectively. The median home value of $193,900 commands higher owner costs, yet household income of $74,954 keeps the overall burden reasonable.
A solid choice for rural Illinois living
Jo Daviess County offers better-than-state-average affordability with incomes aligned to national medians, making it attractive for remote workers or retirees. Compare its higher home values and modest rents with Jersey County to the south if you're evaluating the region.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jo Daviess County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Jo Daviess County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $795/month in gross rent, with 29.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $795/month rent versus $1,063/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $268/month cheaper — a 25% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $45,557/year. With a median household income of $74,954, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Jo Daviess County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Jo Daviess County sits 7% more expensive than Fayette County ($740/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jo Daviess County
Rent Burden
12.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,749
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jo Daviess County
Median home value is $193,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,548 vs. your max of $1,749.
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 Jo Daviess County, Illinois?
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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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