Cost of Living in Menard County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Menard County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Menard County, Illinois
Menard's housing costs rank well nationally
Menard County renters spend just 11.5% of their income on rent, beating the national average of roughly 15%. With a median household income of $81,334—8.7% above the U.S. median—residents here enjoy stronger affordability than most Americans.
Best rental affordability in Illinois
Menard County's 11.5% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Illinois's most affordable, well below the state average of 14.7%. At $780/month median rent compared to the state's $837, Menard renters consistently pay less while earning more.
Menard leads a competitive region
Menard's median rent of $780 undercuts neighboring Mercer County ($757) narrowly but offers significantly higher household income ($81,334 vs. $71,710). Monroe County, the region's wealthiest neighbor at $101,635 median income, commands premium rents of $996/month.
Rent doesn't strain Menard budgets
Menard households allocate 11.5% of income to rent and 15.5% to owner costs, leaving substantial breathing room for other expenses. That mortgage of $1,053/month on a median home valued at $179,300 remains highly manageable for the county's above-average earners.
Consider Menard for balance
If you're weighing Illinois locations, Menard offers the rare combination of solid income levels and restrained housing costs. Compare this county's efficiency to pricier neighbors—you may find the value proposition compelling.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Menard County
Rent Burden
11.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,898
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Menard County
Median home value is $179,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,431 vs. your max of $1,898.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.