Cost of Living in Marshall County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Marshall County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Marshall County ranks #1,101 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 35%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Marshall County, Illinois
Marshall leads affordability in Illinois
Marshall County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.2% is the lowest among Illinois counties reviewed and well below the national norm of ~15%. Residents here spend just $767/month on rent while earning a median of $69,818, creating genuine housing affordability.
Illinois's most affordable county
At 13.2%, Marshall's rent-to-income ratio ranks well below the Illinois state average of 14.7%, making it one of the state's most affordable housing markets. The median rent of $767 is $70 below the state average, reinforcing this advantage.
Rent parity with Marion, better incomes
Marshall's $767 rent matches Marion County's ($771) almost exactly, but Marshall's median income ($69,818) is $9,000 higher than Marion's ($60,839). This income advantage gives Marshall households more breathing room in their budgets despite similar rent levels.
Lowest rent burden in the region
Marshall residents earning a median of $69,818 spend $767/month on rent (13.2%) or $858/month on homeownership (14.8%). This is the lowest rent-to-income ratio among peers, meaning housing consumes roughly one-quarter to one-third of income.
Marshall offers rare housing value
If Illinois affordability is your goal, Marshall County is the standout choice with the state's lowest rent burden and competitive home values ($137,800). Combine this with solid median income and you'll find genuine housing relief compared to most Illinois counties.
Cost of Living Advisory: Marshall County
Affordability Verdict
Marshall County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $767/month representing approximately 13.2% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 23.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Marshall County is $767/month, while owner costs run $858/month. Renting saves approximately $91/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,680/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,771/year. With a median household income of $69,818, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Marshall County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Douglas County where rent averages $818/month, Marshall County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marshall County
Rent Burden
13.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,629
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Marshall County
Median home value is $137,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,100 vs. your max of $1,629.
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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