Cost of Living in Richland County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Richland County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Richland County ranks #1,458 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 46%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Richland County, Illinois
Richland County tests affordability limits
Richland County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the state average of 14.7%, creating slightly elevated housing burden for its residents. With a median household income of $60,404—below the national average—and rent of $754, affordability is tight but manageable.
Richland slightly above state average
Richland County's 15.0% rent-to-income ratio ranks slightly above Illinois's state average, placing it among the less affordable counties in this comparison. The county's $754 median rent contributes to this burden despite moderate housing costs.
Richland pricier than most peers
Richland County's $754 median rent exceeds Pike ($659) and Putnam ($804) is surprisingly similar, but Richland residents earn less than Putnam, creating greater affordability stress. At $698, homeowner costs are moderate, but the rental burden remains the regional challenge.
Renters face the greatest pressure
Richland County renters pay $754 monthly while homeowners pay $698 for the $106,600 median home, placing heavier burden on renters. Housing consumes 15% of the $60,404 median household income—above the comfort zone and leaving less flexibility for other needs.
Richland for committed relocators
Richland County offers moderate housing costs but requires household incomes above $60,000 to avoid affordability strain. Renters should carefully budget before relocating; homebuyers may find better value in neighboring counties.
Cost of Living Advisory: Richland County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Richland County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $754/month in gross rent, with 23.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Richland County is $754/month, while owner costs run $698/month. Owning saves approximately $56/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $29,914/year. With a median household income of $60,404, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 23.0% of renter households in Richland County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Richland County sits 7% less expensive than Fulton County ($808/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Richland County
Rent Burden
15.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,409
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Richland County
Median home value is $106,600. Estimated monthly cost: $851 vs. your max of $1,409.
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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