Cost of Living in Effingham, IL

With a cost of living index of 68, Effingham, IL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 32% cheaper than the national average and 11% below the Illinois state average of 80. Effingham is a smaller community of 12,258 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Effingham's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $696 (47% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $166,700 (45% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.5x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Effingham is $65,718, which is 13% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 13% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Effingham. The area sees an average annual temperature of 53.4°F, with summers averaging 74°F and winters around 31°F. Annual rainfall totals 36 inches spread over roughly 108 days.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.