Average Rent in Wayne County, IL↑ Rents rising 7.8% YoY🔻 5th cheapest in IL

Wayne County, IL has rental prices ranging from $597/month to $1,239/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $663/month — 53% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $53,107/year, spending $663/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Wayne County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $870/month, Wayne County ranks #83 most expensive of the 87 cities tracked in Illinois — more affordable than 88% of all US cities in our data.

The Wayne County Rental Market

The Wayne County, IL area has a population of about 15,994 and 21% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Wayne County, IL have risen by $63/month (7.8%) over the past year, from $807 to $870. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Wayne County, IL without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $26,520. The local median household income of $53,107 exceeds that threshold by $26,587, making Wayne County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Wayne 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.

Is Wayne County, IL Affordable?

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

Rent or Buy in Wayne County?

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

Living in Wayne County

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