Cost of Living in Union County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Union County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Union County, Illinois
Union County offers exceptional housing value
Union County achieves a remarkable 14.0% rent-to-income ratio—the lowest among these eight counties and well below the national average of 14.7%. At $658 monthly rent, the county delivers genuinely affordable housing despite a median household income of $56,420, the second-lowest in this group.
Illinois's most affordable rental market
Union County stands out statewide with a 14.0% rent-to-income ratio, significantly beating Illinois's 14.7% average and the $837 state median rent—Union charges just $658. This exceptional affordability makes Union a standout for renters prioritizing low housing-cost burden.
Union beats all regional competitors on rent
Union County's $658 rent is the lowest across all eight counties surveyed, undercutting even similarly rural Wabash County ($774) and Wayne County ($632). The county's 14.0% rent-to-income ratio beats every neighbor, reflecting genuine affordability rather than squeezed household budgets.
Housing leaves room for other necessities
With median rent of $658 and owner costs of $746 on a $56,420 household income, Union residents dedicate just 14% to housing. This low burden—compared to 17.6% in Vermilion or 17.3% in Wabash—leaves families meaningful resources for healthcare, food, and savings.
Union County rewards cost-conscious movers
Relocating to Union County makes financial sense if you're escaping high-cost regions; your dollars stretch further here than almost anywhere in Illinois. Median home values of $131,700 and rock-bottom rents mean you'll spend less on housing while maintaining a rural lifestyle.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Union County
Rent Burden
14.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,316
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Union County
Median home value is $131,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,051 vs. your max of $1,316.
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.