Cost of Living in LaSalle County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How LaSalle County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
LaSalle County ranks #2,502 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 20%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in LaSalle County, Illinois
LaSalle stays near national affordability marks
LaSalle County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio sits near the national average, reflecting modest rents relative to household income. With a median household income of $72,281—nearly aligned with the national median of $74,755—LaSalle offers housing costs proportional to local earning power.
Slightly above Illinois affordability average
LaSalle County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio marginally exceeds Illinois's 14.7% state average, positioning it as a moderately affordable Illinois county. Monthly rents at $906 are well above the state average of $837, though still accessible compared to higher-cost metros.
Mid-range costs between urban and rural
LaSalle County's $906 monthly rent falls between Lake County's premium $1,434 and rural Lawrence County's $810, reflecting its status as a mid-size metropolitan area. Home values follow the same pattern: LaSalle's median of $154,900 is more affordable than Lake County's $326,600 but valued above Lawrence County's $95,500.
Balanced housing burden across tenures
Renters spend $906 monthly (15.0% of income), while homeowners allocate $990 monthly (16.4% of income) from a median household income of $72,281. Both ratios remain well below the 30% affordability threshold, indicating strong housing value for LaSalle residents.
Sweet spot for affordable Midwest living
LaSalle County offers solid affordability for families earning near the local median, with housing costs consuming roughly one-sixth of income. Compare LaSalle's mid-range pricing and economic stability to nearby Lake County's premium rents or Lawrence County's ultra-affordable options.
Cost of Living Advisory: LaSalle County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in LaSalle County is affordable. The median rent is $906/month against a median household income of $72,281, putting rent at 15.0% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in LaSalle County pay $906/month on average, compared to $990/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 8%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $36,240/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $42,429/year. With a median household income of $72,281, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in LaSalle County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
LaSalle County sits 6% more expensive than Livingston County ($855/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in LaSalle County
Rent Burden
15.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,687
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in LaSalle County
Median home value is $154,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,237 vs. your max of $1,687.
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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