3

Lena, IL Homes for Rent

Section Image
  • /19

    $1,700 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,820 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    204 Hickory Dr, Lena, IL 61048

    Available now! Don't miss this well-maintained ranch home for rent in the highly sought-after Village of Lena. Offering over 1,100 square feet of main-floor living plus a finished lower level, this home provides the space and flexibility that's hard to find in today's rental market. The main level features a beautiful kitchen, 2 spacious bedrooms, full bathroom and laundry. The finished lower

    Aubra Palermo RE/MAX Unites

    204 Hickory Dr, Lena, IL 61048
  • /41

    $1,600 Per Month

    • 3 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • Condo for Rent

    204 W Ida St Unit 1, Lena, IL 61048

    Walk in the front door of this unit to large entry with closet. Off to the left you will find the kitchen with newer appliances and eat in area. Off the kitchen you will find what can be used as a potential bedroom or additional family room with full bath with shower only. At the other end of the kitchen you will find the back entry with another closet, back door to deck, and door to garage.

    204 W Ida St Unit 1, Lena, IL 61048

Why Live in Lena

Lena, a village in northwestern Illinois with a population of around 3,000, has a rich history shaped by the arrival of railroads in the mid-1800s. This development allowed the community to grow as a commercial hub for the surrounding rural area. Today, Lena offers a blend of slow-paced living with convenient amenities, including multiple restaurants, a grocery store, medical care, and a well-regarded school district. The Lena-Winslow schools, located on Fremont Street, are highly rated and known for their strong athletics and academics. The village features historical homes on Oak and Mason Streets, showcasing American Foursquares and Queen Annes, alongside newer split-level and ranch-style homes. Lena’s walkable downtown along West Railroad and West Main streets hosts various businesses and dining options, such as Saporito’s Pizzeria and Mulligan’s Bar & Grill. For things to do, residents can enjoy Coach’s Golf & Grill, the Lena Brewing Company taproom, and year-round recreational activities at Lions Park and Dodds Park. The nearby Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Recreation Area offers additional outdoor activities. Community events include a fall festival and a Christmas parade on Main Street. Transportation is facilitated by State Route 73, U.S. Route 20, and the PCAT bus service, with Freeport 15 miles away and Chicago Rockford International Airport about 45 miles east.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Lena, IL?
The median rent for a home in Lena, IL is $1,700 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of September 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Lena, IL?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Lena, IL, a household needs to earn roughly $68,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $1,700 per month in Lena, IL, renters typically need to show $5,100 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Lena, IL?
In Lena, IL, the price-to-rent ratio is 9.3, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
3
Median Rent
$1,700
Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,700
Median Condo Rent
$1,600
How to Rent a Home