Cost of Living in Washington County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Washington County ranks #334 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 11%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Illinois
Washington County excels in housing affordability
Washington County's 12.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks best among these eight counties and notably beats the national average of 14.7%. With median household income of $75,652—near the national median—Washington delivers exceptional affordability through reasonably priced housing despite higher home values.
Illinois's gold standard for affordability
Washington County's 12.3% rent-to-income ratio stands among Illinois's best, significantly outperforming the state average of 14.7%. The county combines above-average household incomes of $75,652 with moderate rents of $776, creating genuine financial breathing room for residents.
Washington leads regional affordability
Only Warren County (12.9%) competes with Washington's 12.3% rent-to-income ratio; all other surveyed counties lag behind. Washington's $776 monthly rent and strong household incomes of $75,652 set it apart as the region's affordability leader.
Incomes comfortably cover housing costs
Washington residents earning $75,652 annually allocate just $776 to median rent—a mere 12.3% of income—and $920 for owner costs, reflecting median home values of $149,800. This optimal ratio leaves families substantial discretionary income.
Washington County rewards strategic movers
If you're relocating within Illinois, Washington County delivers the strongest affordability fundamentals in this survey paired with higher home values indicating long-term stability. Calculate your housing-cost savings by comparing your current ratio against Washington's exceptional 12.3%.
Cost of Living Advisory: Washington County
Affordability Verdict
Washington County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $776/month — about 12.3% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Washington County is $776/month, while owner costs run $920/month. Renting saves approximately $144/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $39,429/year. With a median household income of $75,652, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 21.0% of renter households in Washington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Illinois, Washington County is more affordable than Knox County by roughly 7% ($776/mo vs $725/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
12.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,765
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.6%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Washington County
Median home value is $149,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,196 vs. your max of $1,765.
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
What is the cost of living in Washington County, Illinois?
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Is Washington County affordable?
How does Washington County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Washington County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
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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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