Average Rent in Jefferson County, IL↑ Rents rising 9.9% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 36,808
Market Overview
Jefferson County, IL has rental prices ranging from $747/month to $1,363/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $752/month — 46% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $61,102/year, spending $752/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Jefferson County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $987/month, Jefferson County ranks #18 most expensive of the 87 cities tracked in Illinois — pricier than 62% of all US cities in our data.
The Jefferson County Rental Market
The Jefferson County, IL area has a population of about 36,808 and 28% 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 Jefferson County, IL have risen by $89/month (9.9%) over the past year, from $898 to $987. This rate of increase is significant and reflects strong rental demand and limited housing supply in the local market.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Jefferson County, IL without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $30,080. The local median household income of $61,102 exceeds that threshold by $31,022, making Jefferson County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Jefferson County, IL has an unemployment rate of 4.6%, 0.7 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 FY2025Is Jefferson County, IL Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in ILlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home 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 Jefferson County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Jefferson County data
Buying breaks even after 5 years — worth it if you stay 5+ years.
Living in Jefferson County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Jefferson CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in ILSee how Jefferson County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Jefferson CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋IL Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections