Coles County, Illinois
Income Data
At a Glance
How Coles County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Data Story
About Household Income in Coles County, Illinois
Coles County well below U.S. income median
Coles County's median household income of $56,040 falls $18,715 short of the national median of $74,755. The county ranks among the nation's lower-income rural areas, reflecting limited employment opportunities.
Bottom tier of Illinois income distribution
At $56,040, Coles County earns $12,540 less than Illinois's state average of $68,580. The county ranks in the lowest 15% of Illinois counties, consistent with south-central Illinois's rural economic patterns.
Lowest income among nearby counties
Coles County ($56,040) trails all adjacent counties, falling behind Clay County ($57,266), Christian County ($59,253), and significantly behind Clark County ($70,625). The county faces the most challenging income environment in its five-county region.
Housing costs strain tight household budgets
Coles County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.0% represents the highest burden among comparison counties, consuming more than half the recommended 30% housing threshold. The combination of low income and higher housing pressure limits financial flexibility.
Build resilience with steady, incremental progress
Coles County residents benefit most from employer-sponsored retirement plans and automatic payroll deductions that lock in savings before spending temptation. Even small contributions—$25-50 monthly—compound meaningfully over 20-30 years toward retirement security.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Income Comparison Calculator
See how your household income compares in Coles County
Your income is above the Coles County median
County median: $56,040 per year
vs. County Median
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vs. State Average
-18%
vs. National Median
-25%
Income Adequacy
Your monthly income ($4,670) vs. median rent ($793/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.
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Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.