Cost of Living in Oblong, IL

With a cost of living index of 56, Oblong, IL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 44% cheaper than the national average and 24% below the Illinois state average of 80. Oblong is a small community of 1,617 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Oblong's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $532 (60% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $78,400 (74% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.5x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Oblong is $52,702, which is 30% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 12% 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 Oblong. The area sees an average annual temperature of 55.7°F, with summers averaging 76°F and winters around 34°F. Annual rainfall totals 41.7 inches spread over roughly 116 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.