Cost of Living in Massac County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Massac County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Massac County ranks #2,262 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 28%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Massac County, Illinois
Massac rents slightly above fair share
Massac County residents spend 15.2% of household income on rent, slightly above the national benchmark and matching Marion County's ratio. At a median of $793/month and median household income of $62,584, Massac offers modest affordability challenges offset by lower overall incomes.
Modestly above Illinois average
Massac's rent-to-income ratio of 15.2% exceeds Illinois's state average of 14.7%, putting it in the less affordable tier of Illinois counties. The median rent of $793 is $44 above the state average, reflecting regional cost pressures.
Mid-range costs among regional peers
Massac's $793 rent falls between Marion ($771) and Madison ($969), occupying the middle ground regionally. Homeownership costs are competitive at $786/month, slightly below Marshall's $858 and well below Madison's $1,109.
Balanced but modest housing burden
With a median income of $62,584, Massac residents spend $793/month on rent (15.2%) or $786/month on homeownership (15.1%). Housing consumes roughly one-third of gross income, leaving moderate resources for utilities, food, transportation, and emergencies.
Massac offers southern Illinois balance
If you're considering relocation in southern Illinois, Massac County provides middle-tier affordability with home values around $118,000. Compare this to nearby Marion (most affordable) and you'll find Massac slightly pricier but with more developed amenities and services.
Cost of Living Advisory: Massac County
Affordability Verdict
Massac County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $793/month — about 15.2% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Massac County is $793/month, while owner costs run $786/month. Owning saves approximately $7/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $33,686/year. With a median household income of $62,584, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Massac County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Massac County sits 7% more expensive than Fayette County ($740/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Massac County
Rent Burden
15.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,460
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Massac County
Median home value is $118,000. Estimated monthly cost: $942 vs. your max of $1,460.
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 Massac County, Illinois?
What is the median rent in Massac County?
Is Massac County affordable?
How does Massac County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Massac County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Massac County, Illinois? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Massac 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.