Cost of Living in McDonough County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How McDonough County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
McDonough County ranks #929 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 30%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in McDonough County, Illinois
McDonough faces Illinois's hardest affordability
McDonough County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% is the highest among all Illinois counties reviewed and significantly above the national norm of ~15%. With a median household income of just $50,434—the lowest in this analysis—residents here face genuine affordability stress.
Illinois's most strained rental market
McDonough's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio far exceeds the Illinois state average of 14.7%, making it the most burdened county in this review. The gap signals that McDonough residents dedicate significantly more of their income to housing than their state peers.
Lowest income, highest burden
McDonough's median income of $50,434 is lowest among regional peers, yet its rent of $730/month creates a 17.4% burden—higher than all neighbors. This mismatch reveals structural affordability challenges: McDonough's housing costs are moderate, but incomes are too low to support them comfortably.
Housing dominates household budgets
McDonough residents earning $50,434 median income spend $730/month on rent (17.4%) or $832/month on homeownership (19.7%). These figures mean roughly one-third or more of gross income goes to housing, severely constraining budgets for food, healthcare, and savings.
McDonough demands careful planning
If considering McDonough County, understand that it faces Illinois's toughest affordability landscape with the lowest incomes and highest rent burden. Relocating here requires strong job prospects or significant savings; compare this reality to more affordable neighbors like Marion or Marshall before committing.
Cost of Living Advisory: McDonough County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in McDonough County is affordable. The median rent is $730/month against a median household income of $50,434, putting rent at 17.4% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in McDonough County pay $730/month on average, compared to $832/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 12%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,657/year. With a median household income of $50,434, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in McDonough County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Illinois, McDonough County is less affordable than Carroll County by roughly 7% ($730/mo vs $784/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in McDonough County
Rent Burden
17.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,177
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in McDonough County
Median home value is $103,500. Estimated monthly cost: $826 vs. your max of $1,177.
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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