Cost of Living in Sangamon County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Sangamon County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Sangamon County ranks #2,949 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 6%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Sangamon County, Illinois
Sangamon matches national affordability standards
With a rent-to-income ratio of 15.4%, Sangamon County nearly mirrors the national benchmark, and its median household income of $74,114 matches the national median of $74,755. This alignment suggests Sangamon offers balanced affordability for households with national-level earnings.
Above-average incomes, above-average rents
Sangamon ranks among Illinois's most prosperous counties, with a median income exceeding most state peers and rents of $954—the highest in this region. This higher cost reflects the county's economic vitality, particularly driven by Springfield's state government employment.
Highest rents but best earning potential
Sangamon's $954 rent runs $243 above Saline County and $91 above Rock Island, yet median home values of $170,300 reflect stronger investment confidence in the region. The trade-off: higher housing costs are offset by superior job markets and earning potential.
Premium housing on premium incomes
Renters spend $954 monthly and homeowners $1,082, consuming 15.4% and 17.5% of the median $74,114 household income respectively. While these percentages align with national norms, the absolute dollars are higher—appropriate for a county with the strongest earning potential.
Sangamon: invest in stronger job markets
Relocating to Illinois for stable government work or professional employment? Sangamon County's $954 rent and $170,300 median home value reflect an economically robust region anchored by Springfield. Compare these costs against your earning potential—Sangamon rewards higher incomes.
Cost of Living Advisory: Sangamon County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Sangamon County is affordable. The median rent is $954/month against a median household income of $74,114, putting rent at 15.4% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Sangamon County is $954/month, while owner costs run $1,082/month. Renting saves approximately $128/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,160/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $46,371/year. With a median household income of $74,114, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Sangamon County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Ogle County where rent averages $901/month, Sangamon County is approximately 6% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Sangamon County
Rent Burden
15.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,729
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Sangamon County
Median home value is $170,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,360 vs. your max of $1,729.
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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