Cost of Living in Macon County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Macon County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Macon County ranks #2,890 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 8%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Macon County, Illinois
Macon County moderately affordable nationally
Macon County's 15.3% rent-to-income ratio sits near national affordability averages, though median household income of $62,449 trails the national median by 16%. Residents manage housing costs reasonably well relative to their earnings, despite regional wage constraints.
Mid-range affordability across Illinois
Macon County's 15.3% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Illinois's 14.7% state average by a narrow margin, reflecting modest housing costs relative to local incomes. At $797 monthly, Macon rents rank among the lowest statewide.
Lowest rents, mixed income story
Macon County's $797 monthly rent is the lowest among the eight counties analyzed, yet median incomes of $62,449 are also near the bottom, limiting the affordability advantage. Home values at $121,800 offer solid value for buyers seeking rural living at minimal cost.
Homeownership notably more affordable
Renters dedicate 15.3% of a $62,449 median income to $797 monthly rent, while homeowners spend just $865 (16.6% of income) on mortgages. The modest gap between renter and owner costs makes Macon an unusual market where both housing tenures remain genuinely affordable.
Ultra-low costs for patient homebuyers
Macon County attracts relocators seeking minimal housing costs combined with affordable homeownership, though lower incomes may limit job market opportunities. Weigh Macon's ultra-low rents against stronger earning potential in neighboring Livingston or Lee counties.
Cost of Living Advisory: Macon County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Macon County is affordable. The median rent is $797/month against a median household income of $62,449, putting rent at 15.3% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Macon County pay $797/month on average, compared to $865/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 $31,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $37,071/year. With a median household income of $62,449, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Macon County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Illinois, Macon County is more affordable than Edwards County by roughly 7% ($797/mo vs $746/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Macon County
Rent Burden
15.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,457
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Macon County
Median home value is $121,800. Estimated monthly cost: $972 vs. your max of $1,457.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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 Macon County, Illinois?
What is the median rent in Macon County?
Is Macon County affordable?
How does Macon County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Macon County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Macon County, Illinois? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Macon County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.