Cost of Living in Mason City, IL

With a cost of living index of 65, Mason City, IL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 35% cheaper than the national average and 15% below the Illinois state average of 80. Mason City is a small community of 2,094 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Mason City's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $785 (40% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $92,200 (70% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.4x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Mason City is $64,250, which is 15% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 15% 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 Mason City. The area sees an average annual temperature of 54°F, with summers averaging 75°F and winters around 31°F. Annual rainfall totals 38 inches spread over roughly 115 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.