Cost of Living in Lawrence County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lawrence County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lawrence County ranks #1,006 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 32%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lawrence County, Illinois
Lawrence County faces tight affordability
Lawrence County's 18.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the least affordable in the nation, despite modest absolute rents of $810 monthly. The challenge stems from a median household income of just $53,438—nearly 29% below the national median of $74,755—straining residents' housing budgets.
Illinois's least affordable county housing
Lawrence County's 18.2% rent-to-income ratio is the highest among the eight counties analyzed, far exceeding Illinois's 14.7% state average. This critical gap reflects both lower local incomes and the inability of rural Illinois wages to keep pace with housing costs.
Most affordable rents, lowest incomes
Lawrence County's $810 monthly rent is the lowest among comparable Illinois counties, yet residents struggle most with affordability because median incomes are the lowest in the region. Unlike wealthier Lake County, Lawrence residents cannot leverage higher earnings to offset housing costs.
Housing costs squeeze lower-wage households
Renters dedicate 18.2% of a $53,438 median income to $810 monthly rent, while homeowners pay $607 (13.6% of income) for mortgages on homes valued at just $95,500. The disparity reveals that owning remains far more affordable than renting in Lawrence County—a reversal of national trends.
Homeownership essential for affordability
Lawrence County offers the lowest absolute housing costs in Illinois, making it ideal for buyers seeking ultra-affordable homeownership—but renters face severe affordability pressures. If relocating here, prioritize homebuying or seek employment in neighboring counties with higher wages.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lawrence County
Affordability Verdict
Lawrence County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $810/month representing approximately 18.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 24.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Lawrence County is $810/month, while owner costs run $607/month. Owning saves approximately $203/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $32,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,014/year. With a median household income of $53,438, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Lawrence County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Illinois, Lawrence County is less affordable than Jefferson County by roughly 6% ($810/mo vs $862/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lawrence County
Rent Burden
18.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,247
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Lawrence County
Median home value is $95,500. Estimated monthly cost: $762 vs. your max of $1,247.
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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