Cost of Living in Williamson County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Williamson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Williamson County ranks #1,610 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Williamson County, Illinois
Williamson rents strain household budgets
Williamson County renters spend 16.4% of income on rent, exceeding the national average of 14.7% and tightening household finances. With median income at $65,521 and rent at $897 monthly, families here face notably higher housing burdens than typical Americans.
Above-average affordability stress in Illinois
Williamson County's 16.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Illinois' most challenging, exceeding the state average of 14.7%. At $897 monthly rent, it runs $60 above state average, indicating a tighter local market than many comparable Illinois communities.
Pricier than White County, less than Winnebago
Williamson County's $897 rent falls between White County's $706 and Winnebago County's $986, positioning it mid-range for southern Illinois. Its 16.4% ratio exceeds all nearby counties except Winnebago, suggesting stronger local demand pressures.
Rent and ownership costs align closely
Renters pay $897 monthly while homeowners face $910—nearly identical burdens—with median home values at $145,600. Both housing types consume roughly 16% of the median $65,521 income, leaving modest room for savings or unexpected expenses.
Williamson County requires careful budget planning
Relocating to Williamson County works best for households with stable incomes at or above the median, as housing costs claim substantially more of budgets here. Compare its $897 rent against lower-cost counties like White or Whiteside to confirm your affordability margin.
Cost of Living Advisory: Williamson County
Affordability Verdict
Williamson County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $897/month — about 16.4% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Williamson County is $897/month, while owner costs run $910/month. Renting saves approximately $13/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $35,880/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $39,000/year. With a median household income of $65,521, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Williamson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Williamson County sits 6% less expensive than Piatt County ($950/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Williamson County
Rent Burden
16.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,529
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Williamson County
Median home value is $145,600. Estimated monthly cost: $1,162 vs. your max of $1,529.
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 Williamson County, Illinois?
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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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