Illinois, known as the "Prairie State", is an affordable Midwest state outside the high-cost Chicago core. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Prairie State — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Illinois for a single person earning the median income of $72,200/year:
Each category shows how Illinois compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Illinois.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Illinois.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Illinois:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Illinois, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Illinois is $285,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,150/month. With a housing cost index of 82, Illinois housing is 18% cheaper than the national average.
Housing in Illinois is a genuine advantage. The low cost of housing frees up income for savings, investments, and discretionary spending that residents of expensive states simply cannot afford.
Illinois has a state income tax rate of 4.95%. On the median household income of $72,200, you will pay approximately $3,574/year in state income tax ($298/month). This is below the national average — a tax advantage for Illinois residents.
The average single person in Illinois spends approximately $410/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $1,025-$1,230/month. The food cost index of 98 means groceries in Illinois are 2% below the national average.
Gas prices in Illinois average $3.55/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $2,130/year in fuel costs.
Illinois healthcare costs are 1% below the national average (index: 99). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Illinois is approximately $5,940 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Illinois averages $1,100/month ($13,200/year). This is a substantial but manageable expense for dual-income households. Many families in Illinois find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Illinois offers a solid balance of cost, opportunity, and quality of life. With costs near the national average, you get access to growing job markets in Chicago and Aurora, and a cost of living that leaves room for saving and investing.
See all Illinois financial calculators:
Illinois (IL) has a cost of living index of 93, meaning it is 7% cheaper than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 82. The median rent is $1,150/month and the median home price is $285,000. Illinois ranks #20 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Illinois is approximately $93,860/year ($7,822/month). For a family of four, aim for $158,840/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($410/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Illinois is $72,200.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Illinois is approximately $1,150/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,553/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Chicago, Aurora, Naperville are the most popular metro areas. Housing in Illinois is affordable compared to the national average.
Illinois is an excellent choice for affordability. With a cost of living 7% below the national average and median rent of just $1,150/month, your money goes significantly further here. Top cities include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville.
The most affordable areas in Illinois are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Illinois, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Chicago metro) and more affordable areas. Rockford and Springfield tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Illinois for a single person is approximately $410 ($1,025 for a family of four). Illinois food costs are 2% below the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Illinois is approximately $120. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $264/month. Illinois utilities are 3% below the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Illinois has a state income tax rate of 4.95%. On the median household income of $72,200, that is approximately $3,574/year in state income tax. This is below the national average — a tax advantage.