RentData

Average Rent in Jackson County, IL Rents rising 4.8% YoY

HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 52,706

Data review: HUD FY2025Sources: HUD, Zillow, Census, BLSMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Jackson County, IL has rental prices ranging from $670/month to $1,297/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $770/month — 45% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $45,572/year, spending $770/month on a 1-bedroom represents 20% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

The Jackson County Rental Market

The Jackson County, IL area has a population of about 52,706 and 51% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs above the US average of ~34%, pointing to a competitive rental market where vacancies clear quickly and rents are less negotiable.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Jackson County, IL have risen by $45/month (4.8%) over the past year, from $932 to $977. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Jackson County, IL without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $30,800. The local median household income of $45,572 exceeds that threshold by $14,772, making Jackson County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Jackson County, IL has an unemployment rate of 4.2%, 0.3 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.

Fair Market Rents

HUD FY2025
Studio
$670
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$770
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$977
4.8% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$1,276
Average
4 Bedrooms
$1,297
Average
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Is Jackson County, IL Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Affordability Index(30% income rule)

To rent a 2BR
$39,080/year
Local median income: $45,572
To buy a median home
/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $977/month and 20% down on a home at 7% rate.

Nearby Cities in ILlargest metros in the state

CityStudio1BR2BR3BRHome Value
DeKalb County$952$1,058$1,388$1,891
Grundy County$1,045$1,151$1,510$1,999
Chicago$1,458$1,560$1,761$2,262
Kendall County$1,428$1,438$1,886$2,643
St. Louis$951$984$1,215$1,570
Davenport$707$831$1,025$1,336

Rent or Buy in Jackson County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real Jackson County data

$
Home Value
$350,000
2BR Rent
$977/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,863/mo
🏠 Buy

Buying breaks even after 5 years — worth it if you stay 5+ years.

Total monthly buy cost: $2,577/movs rent: $977/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Living in Jackson County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in Jackson County

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💵Rent Affordability in Jackson County

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in IL

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📋IL Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections