Cost of Living in Nelson, IL

With a cost of living index of 58, Nelson, IL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 42% cheaper than the national average and 22% below the Illinois state average of 80. Nelson is a small community of 114 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Nelson's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $600 (55% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $71,300 (77% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.6x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Nelson is $45,938, which is 39% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 16% 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 Nelson. The area sees an average annual temperature of 49.4°F, with summers averaging 72°F and winters around 25°F. Annual rainfall totals 37.2 inches spread over roughly 121 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

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.