Whether you’re seeking the vibrant city life in a high-rise apartment in Chicago or a charming home in Bloomington, Illinois has it all. The overall cost of living in Illinois leans slightly above the national average, but it’s not one-size-fits-all; expenses can swing widely based on your location. For instance, the Windy City may stretch your budget with higher housing costs, while more affordable gems await in the heartland. In this article, we’ll dive into the essentials—like average rent and utilities—to help you understand Illinois’ average cost of living.
Housing costs: Median home prices and average rent in Illinois
Housing costs represent a significant chunk of the overall cost of living, and in Illinois, they can be quite steep. With the average rent in Illinois around $2,200, you’ll find rent prices well above the national average of $1,645. That said, this figure doesn’t tell the whole story: while hotspots like Naperville and popular Chicago neighborhoods come at a premium, much of Illinois offers more affordable housing options. If you’re open to trading city life for the quieter suburbs or small towns, you might find apartments and homes that fit more comfortably within your budget.
Illinois housing costs: Average rents and median home sale prices
| City in Illinois | 1 Bed Avg. Rent | 2 Bed Avg. Rent | Median Home Sale Price |
| National Average | $1,495 | $1,725 | $439,000 |
| Aurora | $1,550 | $2,100 | $328,000 |
| Bloomington | $925 | $1,100 | $250,000 |
| Carbondale | $870 | N/A | $150,000 |
| Champaign | $1,130 | $1,220 | $230,000 |
| Chicago | $2,200 | $2,750 | $360,000 |
| Elgin | $1,810 | $2,140 | $307,000 |
| Evanston | $2,630 | $3,600 | $358,500 |
| Joliet | $1,235 | $1,245 | $287,000 |
| Naperville | $1,960 | $2,500 | $612,500 |
| Peoria | $825 | $1,340 | $136,000 |
| Rockford | $1,040 | $1,455 | $148,000 |
| Springfield | $940 | $1,150 | $189,000 |
| Waukegan | $1,135 | $1,530 | $245,000 |
Housing costs in popular cities in Illinois
Bloomington
In Bloomington, housing costs fall comfortably below the Illinois average, making it a prime choice for those seeking affordability. With average rents around $925 for a one-bedroom and $1,100 for a two-bedroom, the city offers budget-friendly living options alongside amenities like a strong arts scene and Illinois State University’s vibrant influence.
Chicago
Housing in Chicago varies widely by neighborhood, but the overall costs sit well above the average rent in Illinois. Average rent is around $2,200 for a one-bedroom and $2,750 for a two-bedroom, making it one of the state’s pricier cities. However, those looking to a buy a home in Chicago will be pleasantly surprised that the median sale price is just $360,000, much lower than the national median sale price of $439,000. For many, the city’s vibrant lifestyle, job opportunities, and cultural offerings make the elevated cost worth it.
Naperville
If you’re after a slice of suburban paradise, Naperville might be up your alley, but be prepared for the cost of living here. With average rents around $1,960 for a one-bedroom and $2,500 for two, living here comes at a premium. The draw? A family-friendly vibe, plenty of amenities, and beautiful riverwalks. Home prices average around $612,500, making Naperville a great yet pricey choice for those who want to enjoy suburban bliss while still being close to Chicago’s hustle and bustle.
Peoria
Peoria is where affordability meets charm, making it an attractive option for those seeking a manageable cost of living in Illinois. With average rent at just $825 for a one-bedroom and $1,340 for a two-bedroom, you can enjoy more space and less stress. Home prices are even more appealing, averaging $136,000. Whether you’re sipping coffee by the river or exploring local parks, Peoria offers a cozy community without the big-city price tag.
Rockford
Another Illinois city offering a more affordable cost of living when it comes to rent and home prices is Rockford. Here, a one-bedroom apartment averages $1,040, and a two-bedroom averages $1,455, both well below the average rent in Illinois of $2,200. Rockford’s charm lies in its beautiful parks and cultural attractions, making it an ideal spot for families and professionals alike looking for more bang for their buck without sacrificing quality of life.
Cost of utilities in Illinois
Utilities are an important factor in the cost of living in Illinois, and they can vary depending on the type of home and its energy efficiency. Newer homes and recently constructed apartments might have lower utility costs thanks to improved insulation and energy-efficient appliances, while older homes may come with higher heating and cooling expenses. Given Illinois’ seasonal temperature shifts, energy costs can fluctuate, especially in the colder months. Overall, utility costs in Illinois are generally on par with national averages, with energy bills often trending slightly lower than the national norm.
Energy bill comparisons: Illinois cities vs. nationwide average
| Monthly Energy Bill | Comparison to National Avg. | |
| National Average | $200.07 | |
| Bloomington-Normal | $177.38 | -6% less |
| Champaign-Urbana | $187.99 | -3% less |
| Chicago | $168 | -6% less |
| Joliet | $157.20 | -12% less |
| Peoria | $183.43 | -4% less |
| Rockford | $167.01 | -9% less |
| Springfield | $185.39 | -5% less |
Grocery costs in Illinois
Groceries in Illinois are generally more affordable than the national average, largely due to the state’s strong agricultural sector. Residents in Illinois spend about 7% less on groceries compared the the national average. While staples like dairy, fresh produce, and meat can be pricier in urban areas, Illinois’s farming regions contribute to competitive prices, especially for seasonal fruits and vegetables. For instance, grocery costs in cities like Peoria are be than in Chicago, where prices are roughly 4% more than the national average due to demand and urban living. Overall, residents can find a variety of affordable options throughout the state.
Transportation costs in Illinois are on par with nationwide prices
Transportation is an important factor in the overall cost of living in Illinois, and costs here can vary depending on your commute and location. With the average gas price around $3.31 per gallon, Illinois residents face slightly lower fuel costs compared to the national average of $3.39. In Chicago, however, public transit is often a more economical choice. With the CTA’s extensive “L” train and bus system, monthly transit passes make commuting more affordable than owning a vehicle, especially within the city’s urban core.
Healthcare costs in Illinois
Healthcare costs in Illinois can be somewhat higher than the national average, influenced by factors such as insurance premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. These costs fluctuate based on individual circumstances, including insurance coverage and specific medical needs. The national average for a dentist visit is approximately $115.50, while a doctor’s visit averages around $140.46. In Rockford, you might pay about $111.38 for a dental appointment and $166 for a doctor’s visit, while Peoria offers more budget-friendly options, with dentist visits averaging $98 and doctor visits at $151.15. Overall, residents should be prepared for a range of healthcare costs depending on their location and needs.
Taxes in Illinois can affect the total cost of living
Taxes play a significant role in shaping the cost of living in Illinois. The state has a flat income tax rate of 4.95%, which is higher than in many other states, especially for residents in lower tax brackets. Property taxes are also steep, averaging around 1.95% of a home’s assessed value, ranking among the highest in the nation. Illinois has a state sales tax of 6.25%, but many localities impose additional taxes, driving the total combined sales rate as high as 10.25% in Chicago. The average combined sales tax rate in Illinois is about 8.86%, much higher than the national average 5-7%. Understanding these tax structures is essential for budgeting and understanding how it could impact the cost of living in Illinois for you.
How much do I need to earn to live in Illinois?
Ideally, your total monthly income should be at least three times your rent to account for other expenses like utilities, groceries, and transportation – known as the 30% rule. Based on the average rent in Illinois, $2,200, you’d need to aim for a monthly income of approximately $6,600, which translates to an annual income of about $79,200. However, more affordable options in suburban areas like Peoria or Rockford can help lower this threshold, making Illinois living accessible to a broader range of incomes.
Methodology
Average 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom rent sourced from Rent. Median home sale price, state average monthly rent, national rent prices, and cost of living data sourced from Redfin.
