Cost of Living in Pulaski County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Pulaski County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Pulaski County ranks #377 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 12%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Pulaski County, Illinois
Pulaski County stretches tight budgets
Pulaski County has the highest rent-to-income ratio in this group at 17.4%, well above both the state average of 14.7% and national norms, creating real affordability stress. With the lowest median household income at just $43,227—42% below the national average—residents here struggle most with housing costs relative to earnings.
Illinois's most housing-burdened county
Pulaski County ranks among Illinois's least affordable counties, with 17.4% of income consumed by rent compared to the state average of 14.7%. This burden reflects both lower incomes and the limited supply of affordable units in this southern Illinois community.
Pulaski struggles among peers
Pulaski County's $625 rent falls in the middle range, but its 17.4% affordability burden exceeds all neighbors due to the county's significantly lower median income of $43,227. Even Pike County residents, who earn similarly, dedicate just 13.6% to rent—evidence that Pulaski faces unique affordability challenges.
Housing crisis for low-income families
Pulaski County renters pay $625 monthly while homeowners pay $494 for the $81,000 median home, but the median household income of $43,227 makes these costs severely burdensome. Housing consumes 17.4% of income—well above the recommended 12-15% threshold—leaving families little room for other expenses.
Pulaski requires careful planning
Pulaski County's affordability crisis demands that relocating families have stable, adequate income before considering a move here. Only households committed to this region should prioritize Pulaski; most seeking affordability will find better options in Pike or Pope counties.
Cost of Living Advisory: Pulaski County
Affordability Verdict
Pulaski County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $625/month representing approximately 17.4% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 24.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $625/month rent versus $494/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $131/month cheaper — a 21% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $25,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $21,171/year. With a median household income of $43,227, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Pulaski County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Hamilton County where rent averages $566/month, Pulaski County is approximately 10% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Pulaski County
Rent Burden
17.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,009
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Pulaski County
Median home value is $81,000. Estimated monthly cost: $647 vs. your max of $1,009.
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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