Cost of Living in Madison County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Madison County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Madison County ranks #2,683 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 15%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Madison County, Illinois
Madison rents track national norms
Madison County residents spend 15.6% of household income on rent, just slightly above the national benchmark of roughly 15%. The median rent of $969/month is notably higher than Illinois's state average of $837, reflecting the county's position as a mid-tier housing market in the region.
Middle-ground affordability in Illinois
Among Illinois counties, Madison's rent-to-income ratio of 15.6% places it in the less affordable tier, above the state average of 14.7%. This suggests renters here face tighter budget constraints than their counterparts in many other Illinois communities.
Higher costs than surrounding counties
Madison's $969 median rent outpaces nearby Marion County ($771) and Marshall County ($767) by roughly $200/month. However, homeownership costs are competitive: Madison's median owner cost of $1,109 sits between Marion's $785 and Marshall's $858, reflecting mixed affordability across housing types.
Balanced burden across housing types
Madison's median household income of $74,800 means renters allocate $969/month (15.6%) while homeowners spend $1,109/month (17.8%) on housing. Together, these costs consume roughly one-third of household income, leaving moderate room for other expenses.
Consider Madison for balanced housing
If you're relocating within Illinois, Madison County offers middle-range affordability with rents and home values near state norms. Compare this to pricier McHenry County ($1,358 rent, $286,900 median home) or more affordable Marshall County before making your decision.
Cost of Living Advisory: Madison County
Affordability Verdict
Madison County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $969/month — about 15.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $969/month rent versus $1,109/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $140/month cheaper — a 13% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $47,529/year. With a median household income of $74,800, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Madison County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Madison County sits 7% more expensive than Woodford County ($907/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Madison County
Rent Burden
15.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,745
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Madison County
Median home value is $167,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,340 vs. your max of $1,745.
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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