Cost of Living in Winnebago County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Winnebago County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Winnebago County ranks #2,337 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 26%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Winnebago County, Illinois
Winnebago ranks among least affordable
Winnebago County renters spend 18.4% of income on rent, significantly exceeding the national average of 14.7% and straining household finances. This $986 monthly rent on a $64,363 median income represents one of Illinois' most challenging housing affordability situations.
Illinois' most strained rental market
At 18.4% rent-to-income ratio, Winnebago County ranks among Illinois' least affordable counties, well above the state average of 14.7%. Its $986 median rent runs $149 above state average, reflecting acute local housing demand and limited supply.
Highest costs among regional peers
Winnebago County's $986 rent and 18.4% ratio exceed all nearby counties—White, Whiteside, Williamson, and Woodford—making it the region's priciest market. This positions it distinctly less affordable than surrounding communities despite similar income levels.
Ownership slightly eases rent burden
Homeowners pay $1,034 monthly versus renters' $986, a modest $48 premium, with median home values at $155,100. Both renters and owners allocate roughly 16-18% of the $64,363 median income to housing, leaving tight margins for other necessities.
Winnebago demands financial flexibility
Relocating to Winnebago County works only for households with significant income cushions above the $64,363 median or willing to accept high housing-cost burdens. Compare its 18.4% ratio against neighboring counties to understand the affordability premium you'll pay here.
Cost of Living Advisory: Winnebago County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Winnebago County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $986/month in gross rent, with 29.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Winnebago County pay $986/month on average, compared to $1,034/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 5%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $39,440/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $44,314/year. With a median household income of $64,363, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Winnebago County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Winnebago County sits 6% more expensive than Clinton County ($934/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Winnebago County
Rent Burden
18.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,502
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Winnebago County
Median home value is $155,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,238 vs. your max of $1,502.
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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