Cost of Living in Stephenson County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Stephenson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Stephenson County ranks #2,033 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 35%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Stephenson County, Illinois
Stephenson rents track national affordability
Stephenson County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.8% sits just above the national average of 14.7%, meaning renters here spend about the same share of their paycheck on housing as Americans nationwide. The county's median household income of $61,943 trails the national median by $12,812, yet lower rents of $764 per month keep affordability in balance.
Middle ground in Illinois affordability
At 14.8%, Stephenson County's rent-to-income ratio virtually matches Illinois's state average of 14.7%, placing it squarely in the middle of the state's affordability spectrum. With median rent of $764—about $73 below the state average—the county offers comparable housing costs without the premium prices of Chicago-area counties.
Neighboring counties show mixed costs
Stephenson sits between more affordable neighbors like Warren County (12.9% rent-to-income) and pricier peers like Tazewell County (14.1%). Stephenson's $764 rent falls between Warren's $694 and Tazewell's $898, reflecting a middle position in the region's housing market.
Housing claims roughly one-sixth of income
In Stephenson, renters spend about $764 monthly while homeowners pay $877—both affordable relative to the median household income of $61,943. Overall, housing costs consume roughly 15% of household income, leaving families reasonable breathing room for other expenses.
Consider Stephenson for stable housing costs
If you're weighing Illinois counties, Stephenson offers reliable affordability without the affordability crunch hitting nearby regions like Vermilion County. Compare its balanced rent-to-income ratio and median home values of $127,500 against your current housing burden to see if a move makes financial sense.
Cost of Living Advisory: Stephenson County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Stephenson County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $764/month in gross rent, with 27.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $764/month rent versus $877/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $113/month cheaper — a 13% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $37,586/year. With a median household income of $61,943, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Stephenson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Saline County where rent averages $711/month, Stephenson County is approximately 7% more expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Stephenson County
Rent Burden
14.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,445
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.0%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Stephenson County
Median home value is $127,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,018 vs. your max of $1,445.
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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