{"id":449414,"date":"2026-06-02T04:28:31","date_gmt":"2026-06-02T08:28:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/?p=449414"},"modified":"2026-06-02T04:28:42","modified_gmt":"2026-06-02T08:28:42","slug":"cheapest-places-to-live-in-illinois","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/cheapest-places-to-live-in-illinois\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Cheapest Places to Live in Illinois in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Want Illinois\u2019 lakeside lifestyle without Chicago\u2019s high prices? Don&#8217;t give up on the dream. You can afford a house in the Prairie State if you know where to look.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your perfect home could be a family-friendly house in Decatur or a&nbsp;<a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/hoopeston\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">starter home in Hoopeston<\/a>, Illinois\u2019 affordable rural gem with median prices around $66,000. If you\u2019re retiring, look at&nbsp;<a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/granite-city\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">homes for sale in Granite City<\/a>&nbsp;to enjoy a low-cost community lifestyle, with median home prices under $120,000.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After assessing hundreds of cities, we\u2019ve ranked the 10 most affordable places to live in Illinois to help you find a home that fits your budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-custom-accordion custom-accordion\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-custom-accordion-item accordion-item\"><button class=\"accordion-header\"><span class=\"accordion-title\">\ud83c\udfe0 What is Houzeo?<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"840px\" height=\"450px\" class=\"accordion-icon\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/flat-fee-mls\/faqArrow.svg\" alt=\"toggle\"\/><\/button><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Houzeo is America&#8217;s best home buying and selling platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>For Home Sellers:<\/strong> List your home for a Flat Fee, and save 2.5% to 5.5% on the listing agent commission! That&#8217;s thousands of dollars extra in your pocket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>For Home Buyers:<\/strong> Houzeo has the most number of <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">houses for sale in Illinois<\/a>. Start your dream home search now!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-custom-accordion custom-accordion\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-custom-accordion-item accordion-item\"><button class=\"accordion-header\"><span class=\"accordion-title\">\ud83d\udcf1 Does Houzeo have a mobile app?<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"840px\" height=\"450px\" class=\"accordion-icon\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/flat-fee-mls\/faqArrow.svg\" alt=\"toggle\"\/><\/button><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Yes! You can list your home for sale or search millions of homes on the Houzeo mobile app!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Download now on the <a       href=\"https:\/\/apps.apple.com\/app\/id1576836461\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Apple App Store<\/a> or the <a       href=\"https:\/\/play.google.com\/store\/apps\/details?id=com.houzeo.houzeo&#038;pli=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Google Play Store<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\t<div  class=\"hfsWidget \" data-widget-title=\"Find homes in Illinois that fit your budget\ud83c\udfd9\ufe0f\" data-widget-list-item1=\"1st item\" data-widget-list-item2=\"2nd item\" data-widget-list-item3=\"3rd item\" data-widget-type=\"buyer1\" data-widget-vendor-type=\"inspector\" data-widget-state=\"il\" data-widget-city=\"\" data-widget-redirect-url=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/cheap-homes-for-sale\" data-widget-redirect-text=\"Cheap homes for sale in Illinois\" data-widget-button-url=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\" data-widget-button-text=\"\" data-widget-min-price=\"0\" data-widget-max-price=\"0\" data-widget-min-area=\"0\" data-widget-max-area=\"0\" data-widget-sidebar=\"false\">\n        <div class=\"widgetMainBox mainBox456\">\n        <div class=\"widgetBox widgetBox3 buyer-one\">\n            <div class=\"widgetTop\" style=\"display: flex;\">\n                <div class=\"widgetTopcont\">\n                    <div class=\"homePageQuickListing -page homepage widgetInBox3 hfs_new_design_widget\">\n                      <div class=\"HeaderTopSidebar\"> \n                        <p class=\"headerStyle\">Find homes in Illinois that fit your budget\ud83c\udfd9\ufe0f<\/p>\n                                                                         <div class=\"widgetList skeleton skeleton-text\">\n                            <p>View 25,261 homes for sale in <span\n                            class=\"propertyStateSpan\">IL<\/span><\/p>                            \n                        <\/div>\n                                                                      <\/div>  \n                        <div class=\"verifyFieldForm addInput\">\n                            <div class=\"inputSearchBox\">\n                                <div class=\"inputBoxElement addressBar\">\n                                    <input type=\"text\" name=\"ITBTtRE\" id=\"buyerAutocomplete\"\n                                        placeholder=\"Enter an address, city, neighborhood, or ZIP\"\n                                        class=\"pac-target-input buyerAutocomplete\" autocomplete=\"off\">\n                                <\/div>\n                                <span class=\"errorStreetMsg errorMsg\">Please enter valid address<\/span>\n                            <\/div>\n                            \n                            <div class=\"inputSubmitBox\">\n                                                                <button id=\"buyerBtnBox456\" class=\"continueCta storeAddress next_btn buyerBtnBox\">Search\n                                    <span class=\"arrowContinue\"><\/span><\/button>\n                            <\/div>\n                        \n                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"widgetInsideBox\">\n                <div class=\"widgetPropertyBoxNew\" id=\"propertyContainer\">\n                <div class=\"widgetPropertyInnerBox\">   \n                 \t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetPropColumnNew halfWidthCard\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes\/540-w-120th-st-chicago-il-60628\/hzid_92aff4c3\" class=\"widgetAnchorColumnLink\" target=\"_blank\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetImageBox\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.houzeo.com\/idx\/media\/2\/MRMMRD12575400\/1_699cd7fbec86912dd0977766_b4334d1137_dim_640X450.webp\" alt=\"\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/seller\/listing\/uploads\/listing_images\/thumbnails\/empty-property.jpg';\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/idx\/MRED_1712309001-xs.webp\" alt=\"logo\" class=\"insideWidgetLogo\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetTextBox\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <p class=\"priceText\">$89,900<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <span class=\"addressText\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t540 w 120th st, <br\/>chicago, IL 60628\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"suummarize-info grey-img\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/blog\/blog-info-gray.svg\" alt=\"\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t <span class=\"voult-tooltip-box\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"info-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"fz-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tListing Provided by: Kim Van Ordstrand | CRIS Realty <br>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSource: MRED MLS-IL | MLS#: 12575400<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetPropColumnNew halfWidthCard\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes\/4211-w-gladys-ave-chicago-il-60624\/hzid_47660ee8\" class=\"widgetAnchorColumnLink\" target=\"_blank\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetImageBox\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.houzeo.com\/idx\/media\/2\/MRMMRD12550606\/42_696f3fee9936980c58ef814f_60f2c938e9_dim_640X450.webp\" alt=\"\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/seller\/listing\/uploads\/listing_images\/thumbnails\/empty-property.jpg';\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/idx\/MRED_1712309001-xs.webp\" alt=\"logo\" class=\"insideWidgetLogo\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetTextBox\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <p class=\"priceText\">$499,000<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <span class=\"addressText\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t4211 w gladys ave, <br\/>chicago, IL 60624\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"suummarize-info grey-img\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/blog\/blog-info-gray.svg\" alt=\"\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t <span class=\"voult-tooltip-box\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"info-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"fz-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tListing Provided by: Shaheen Pervaiz | Exit Strategy Realty <br>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSource: MRED MLS-IL | MLS#: 12550606<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t                        <div class=\"widgetPropColumnNew fullWidthCard \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/cheap-homes-for-sale\" class=\"widgetanctextfind widgetancTextForAll\" target=\"_blank\">Cheap homes for sale in Illinois<span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/houzeo-media-1.s3.amazonaws.com\/homes-for-sale\/blue-arrow.svg\" alt=\"arrow\" width=\"11\" height=\"10\"><\/span> \n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n                   <\/div>   \n               \n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n       \n    <\/div>\n\t<script>\n    document.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\", function() {        \n        if (!window.assetsLoaded) {\n            window.assetsLoaded = true;\n            var version = (typeof customData !== 'undefined' && customData.customVersion) ? customData.customVersion : '1.0';\n            loadScript('\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/houzeo-new-design\/js\/hfs-widget.js?version=' + version);\n            loadCSS('\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/houzeo-new-design\/css\/hfs-widget.css?version=' + version);\n        }    \n    });\n\t\t\n\t<\/script>\n\t\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-houzeo-takeaways-list takeawaysSec\"><p class=\"headKeySec\"><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/p><ul class=\"listing\"><li><strong>Decatur is the cheapest city in Illinois:<\/strong> Decatur&#8217;s cost of living is 15% lower than the state average.\u200b With a median home price of $129,000, it is the cheapest place to live in Illinois. <\/li><li><strong>Peoria is the best city for young professionals:\u00a0<\/strong>Ranked as the #2 most affordable housing market in the state, Peoria is a prime spot to build a home early in your career.<\/li><li><strong>For families, Rockford is a great choice: <\/strong>With top-notch schools, safe neighborhoods, and low child-rearing costs, Rockford is an ideal place to raise a family on a budget.<\/li><li><strong>Retirees should consider Decatur:<\/strong>\u00a0Retirees can enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle, with homes typically starting for $129,000.<\/li><li><strong>Don&#8217;t forget Illinois&#8217; &#8220;property tax and storm premium&#8221;: <\/strong> Illinois has its own version of a \u201chidden housing tax\u201d in the form of high property taxes and rising storm\u2011driven insurance costs. This tax can quietly add a thousand of dollars a year to the true cost.<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-28\" id=\"cheapest-town-to-live-in-illinois\"><strong>Cheapest Places to Live in Illinois in 2026<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"footable_parent_449765\"\n         class=\" footable_parent ninja_table_wrapper loading_ninja_table wp_table_data_press_parent semantic_ui \">\n                <table data-ninja_table_instance=\"ninja_table_instance_0\" data-footable_id=\"449765\" data-filter-delay=\"1000\" aria-label=\"Cheapest Cities in Illinois\"            id=\"footable_449765\"\n           data-unique_identifier=\"ninja_table_unique_id_390683574_449765\"\n           class=\" foo-table ninja_footable foo_table_449765 ninja_table_unique_id_390683574_449765 ui table  nt_type_legacy_table selectable celled striped compact vertical_centered  footable-paging-center ninja_table_search_disabled ninja_table_pro\">\n                <colgroup>\n                            <col class=\"ninja_column_0 \">\n                            <col class=\"ninja_column_1 \">\n                            <col class=\"ninja_column_2 \">\n                            <col class=\"ninja_column_3 \">\n                            <col class=\"ninja_column_4 \">\n                    <\/colgroup>\n        <thead>\n<tr class=\"footable-header\">\n                                                                                        <th scope=\"col\"  class=\"ninja_column_0 ninja_clmn_nm_city \">City<\/th><th scope=\"col\"  class=\"ninja_column_1 ninja_clmn_nm_average_household_income \">Median Home Value<\/th><th scope=\"col\"  class=\"ninja_column_2 ninja_clmn_nm_safety_rank \">Median House Rent<\/th><th scope=\"col\"  class=\"ninja_column_3 ninja_clmn_nm_median_home_value \">Cost of Living Compared to State Average<\/th><th scope=\"col\"  class=\"ninja_column_4 ninja_clmn_nm_affordability_score_out_of_10 \">Affordability Score (out of 10)<\/th><\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n\n        <tr data-row_id=\"15604\" class=\"ninja_table_row_0 nt_row_id_15604\">\n            <td>1. <b><a href=\"#cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-decatur\">Decatur<\/a><\/b><\/td><td>$129,000<\/td><td>$709<\/td><td>15% lower \u2b07\ufe0f<\/td><td>8.5<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"15600\" class=\"ninja_table_row_1 nt_row_id_15600\">\n            <td>2. <b><a href=\"#cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-peoria\">Peoria<\/a><\/b><\/td><td>$152,000<\/td><td>$1,095<\/td><td>17% lower \u2b07\ufe0f<\/td><td>8.4<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"15601\" class=\"ninja_table_row_2 nt_row_id_15601\">\n            <td>3. <b><a href=\"#cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-hoopeston\">Hoopeston<\/a><\/b><\/td><td>$66,000<\/td><td>$651<\/td><td>11% lower \u2b07\ufe0f<\/td><td>8.4<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"15602\" class=\"ninja_table_row_3 nt_row_id_15602\">\n            <td>4.<b><a href=\"#cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-granite-city\">Granite City<\/a><\/b><\/td><td>$136,000<\/td><td> $1,050<\/td><td>13% lower \u2b07\ufe0f<\/td><td>8.4<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"15605\" class=\"ninja_table_row_4 nt_row_id_15605\">\n            <td>5. <b><a href=\"#cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-rockford\">Rockford<\/a><\/b><\/td><td>$171,000<\/td><td>$1,161<\/td><td>16% lower \u2b07\ufe0f<\/td><td>8<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"15606\" class=\"ninja_table_row_5 nt_row_id_15606\">\n            <td>6. <b><a href=\"#cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-charleston\">Charleston<\/a><\/b><\/td><td>$170,000<\/td><td>$900<\/td><td>8% higher\u2b06\ufe0f<\/td><td>7.7<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"15603\" class=\"ninja_table_row_6 nt_row_id_15603\">\n            <td>7. <b><a href=\"#cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-bloomington\">Bloomington<\/a><\/b><\/td><td>$232,000<\/td><td> $1,300<\/td><td>13% lower \u2b07\ufe0f<\/td><td>6.9<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"16699\" class=\"ninja_table_row_7 nt_row_id_16699\">\n            <td>8. <b><a href=\"#cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-freeport\">Freeport<\/a><\/b><\/td><td>$127,000<\/td><td> $2,250<\/td><td>19% lower \u2b07\ufe0f<\/td><td>6.5<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"16700\" class=\"ninja_table_row_8 nt_row_id_16700\">\n            <td>9. <b><a href=\"#cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-belleville\">Belleville<\/a><\/b><\/td><td>$150,000<\/td><td> $2,300<\/td><td>18% lower \u2b07\ufe0f<\/td><td>6.3<\/td>        <\/tr>\n            <tr data-row_id=\"16701\" class=\"ninja_table_row_9 nt_row_id_16701\">\n            <td>10. <b><a href=\"#cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-clinton\">Clinton<\/a><b><\/td><td>$173,000<\/td><td>$2,700<\/td><td>6.5% lower \u2b07\ufe0f<\/td><td>5.1<\/td>        <\/tr>\n    <\/tbody><!--ninja_tobody_rendering_done-->\n    <\/table>\n    \n    \n    \n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-28\" id=\"cheap-places-to-live-in-il\"><strong>How We Ranked the Most Affordable Places to Live in Illinois<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To identify the cheap places to live in Illinois, we carried out an in-depth analysis using multiple reliable data sources and indicators of affordability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\"><strong>Data Sources:<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Median Home Prices:<\/strong> We used Houzeo&#8217;s <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/housing-market\/illinois\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Illinois Housing Market<\/a> report and double-checked the numbers with the <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.ihda.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA)<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Median Rent:<\/strong> We got the rent data from <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.c2er.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">C2ER<\/a>, which publishes the national Cost of Living Index. This was verified every few months to make sure it&#8217;s accurate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Overall Cost of Living:<\/strong> We covered 6 big spending categories\u2014 housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods\u2014 from C2ER. We then compared everything to the U.S. average of 100.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>We studied housing data from 2022 to 2025 to identify cities that remained affordable over time, not just during short dips in prices. Furthermore, each city&#8217;s data was also cross-checked with HUD and state economic reports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All our information is up to date as of 2025, ensuring you receive the most current insights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\"><strong>Affordability Scoring: <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>We built a simple scoring system that focuses on what really matters:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Median Home Price (40%)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Median Rent (35%)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cost of Living (25%)<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This way, we can clearly show which Illinois cities give you the best value for your money. You can also check out our <a       href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/spreadsheets\/d\/1ZeowkP4TbIHFnUN2nssdO4OHT0WH8yUMC-1mbgN7FOg\/edit?gid=1133715072#gid=1133715072\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">score breakdown<\/a> to see how each city was ranked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Image credits: All blog images are sourced from <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.freepik.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Freepik<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\"><strong>10 Most Affordable Places to Live in Illinois<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-decatur\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#1<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Decatur<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Median Home Price:<\/span>$129,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Median Home Rent:<\/span> $709<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Cost of Living:<\/span> 15% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Decatur-1.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Decatur, Illinois\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">8.5 <\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Decatur is one of the cheapest cities in Illinois, with easy access to Springfield via I\u201172 and US 51. Its many homes for sale, proximity to Lake Decatur and Fairview Park, and an active arts scene with venues like Kirkland Fine Arts Center and local galleries make it appealing to many buyers.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>West End Historic District<\/strong>:\u00a0This is a neighborhood with tree-lined streets with vintage homes, close to parks, churches.The\u00a0 Kirkland Fine Arts Center, Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, Madden Arts Center, and Staley Museum, make it appealing to families and retirees.<\/li>\n<li><strong>South Shores<\/strong>: Quiet suburb just south of Lake Decatur contains many single-family home. It also has serene lake access and provides proximity to South Shore. Nearby schools like South Shores Elementary, Stephen Decatur Middle, and Holy Family Catholic School that attract families.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Forsyth<\/strong>: Small town north of Decatur with big-box shopping, well-regarded Maroa\u2011Forsyth schools, and Forsyth Park, which offers trails, playgrounds, and fishing for plenty of outdoor activities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market<\/strong>: Decatur has a steady, mixed job base in manufacturing, agribusiness, healthcare, education, and logistics, led by employers like ADM, Caterpillar, two major hospitals, Decatur Public Schools, and Millikin University.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recreation<\/strong>: Residents get lake life on Lake Decatur. People can take family outings at Scovill Zoo and Overlook Adventure Park, and a lively arts scene with shows at The Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, Kirkland Fine Arts Center, and downtown galleries.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>High Crime Rate<\/strong>: Overall crime rates sit roughly <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighborhoodscout.com\/il\/decatur\/crime\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">35\u201340%<\/a> above the US average, with violent crime almost double national levels, which makes safety a serious concern in some neighborhoods.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Economic Stagnation<\/strong>: The metro unemployment rate runs higher than the national average (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.illinoispolicy.org\/decatur-is-illinois-fastest-shrinking-city-since-2010\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">around 6% recently<\/a>), and Decatur has been one of Illinois\u2019 fastest\u2011shrinking mid\u2011sized cities<\/li>\n<li><strong>Aging Housing Stock<\/strong>: Older housing in need of reinvestment give parts of the city a tired feel, and Decatur often appears on lists of \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/reolink.com\/blog\/most-dangerous-cities-in-illinois\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">most dangerous<\/a>\u201d or \u201cmost depressed\u201d cities in Illinois<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-peoria\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#2<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Peoria<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Median Home Price:<\/span>\u00a0<span style=\"color: #000000; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Inter, Arial; text-align: right;\" data-sheets-root=\"1\">$152,000<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Median Home Rent:<\/span>\u00a0<span style=\"color: #000000; font-size: 10pt; font-family: Inter, Arial; text-align: right;\" data-sheets-root=\"1\">$1,095<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Cost of Living:<\/span> 17% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Peoria-scaled.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Peoria, Illinois\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">8.4<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Peoria is one of the most affordable cities in Illinois. It sits on the Illinois River with access toward the Mississippi. Life centers on the riverfront, with events like the Peoria Art Guild Fine Art Fair and eateries such as Rhythm Kitchen and Kelleher\u2019s Irish Pub, residents savor a great blend of scenic lifestyle alongside a vibrant art scene.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>North Florence<\/strong>: This is a peaceful area with many older single-family homes for long-time residents and young families, with easy access to shopping, dining, and nearby parks like Glen Oak and Detweller that host art festivals.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Rolling Acres<\/strong>: This neighborhood serves as a family- and young-professional neighborhood featuring spacious homes, access to good schools like Rolling Acres Middle School, and short drives to the riverfront and downtown for outdoor activities<\/li>\n<li><strong>Lexington Hills:<\/strong> This enclave stands out as an upscale suburb in Peoria. Offering large single-family homes with roomy garages ideal for families, alongside pleasant walking trails for leisurely strolls.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market<\/strong>: Diverse, service\u2011focused employment in healthcare, manufacturing, education, finance, and logistics\u2014major employers include OSF HealthCare, UnityPoint, Caterpillar, Bradley University, CEFCU, and RLI\u2014with unemployment recently around <a href=\"https:\/\/fred.stlouisfed.org\/series\/PEOR917URN\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">3\u20135%<\/a>.\u200b<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recreation<\/strong>: Peoria Park District attractions include Glen Oak Park zoo and children\u2019s museum, Detweiller Park trails and cross\u2011country, plus riverfront events at the Peoria Riverfront Museum and year\u2011round minor\u2011league sports.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Slow Growing Economy<\/strong>: The city has diversified heavy industries, but carries a legacy of factory losses with fewer white-collar jobs preventing young professionals from finding work nearby.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Harsh Winters<\/strong>: Long, cold and sometimes icy winters combined with older housing stock can make Peoria feel gray contrasting the vibrant lifestyle many people look for.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Higher Crime Rate<\/strong>: Peoria&#8217;s crime rates sit above the national average, and safety can change quickly from block to block brewing chaos in almost every neighborhood.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-hoopeston\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#3<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Hoopeston<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Median Home Price:\u00a0<\/span>$66,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Median Home Rent:<\/span>\u00a0$651<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Cost of Living:<\/span> 11% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Hoopeston.webp\" alt=\"cheap places to live in hoopeston\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">8.4<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p><span style=\"color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0.4px; background-color: #f3f6fa;\">If you want affordable living in Illinois, Hoopeston is a great choice. The city offers housing that costs 70% below the state average. Cheap homes for sale in Hoopeston start around $66,000, offering you a full house for the price of a condo in Chicago. Plus, you\u2019re only minutes from serene parks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\" style=\"box-sizing: border-box; border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; border-color: oklch(0.9296 0.007 106.53 \/ 0.1); scrollbar-color: initial; scrollbar-width: initial; --tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 \/ .5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; font-weight: inherit;\"><strong>Washington Street<\/strong>: Established, family-friendly block of single-family homes ranging from historic to mid\u201120th\u2011century styles, with spacious yards, classic details, nearby schools like the Maple Elementary, and green spaces for jogging or fitness classes.<\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\" style=\"box-sizing: border-box; border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; border-color: oklch(0.9296 0.007 106.53 \/ 0.1); scrollbar-color: initial; scrollbar-width: initial; --tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 \/ .5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; font-weight: inherit;\"><strong>Elm Street<\/strong>: Quiet residential street with modest single-family homes, mature trees, well\u2011kept lawns, and easy access to community facilities like the Elm City Center for gatherings and a close\u2011knit neighborhood feel.<\/li>\n<li class=\"my-2 [&amp;+p]:mt-4 [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:inline-block [&amp;_strong:has(+br)]:pb-2\" style=\"box-sizing: border-box; border-width: 0px; border-style: solid; border-color: oklch(0.9296 0.007 106.53 \/ 0.1); scrollbar-color: initial; scrollbar-width: initial; --tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgb(59 130 246 \/ .5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; font-weight: inherit;\"><strong>Sally Court<\/strong>: Small, low\u2011traffic cul\u2011de\u2011sac with newer, compact homes and nearby parks like Hubbard Trail hosting local group gatherings, and peaceful walking trails.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market<\/strong>: Local jobs in business, healthcare, transportation, and education. Major employers include Silgan Containers, Hoopeston College, and nursing homes\u2014though career growth is slower than in larger cities.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recreation<\/strong>: Residents enjoy peaceful walks in parks like McFerren Park, Crystal Park, and Falls Creek Gorge, plus a local golf course. Families visit Fast Lanes Bowling and popular Elm Street restaurants. Occasional festive local markets add a vibrant community feel.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Limited Job Market Diversity<\/strong>: The job market is stagnant with the local economy focused largely on manufacturing, healthcare, education and retail not suiting to young professionals wanting a rapid career growth.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Limited Healthcare Access<\/strong>: There is a regional heath center, however, the city lacks more specialized medical services and residents may have to travel to larger cities like Decatur or Charleston for medical attention.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Localized Education Facilities<\/strong>: Smaller school districts may offer fewer specialized programs or extracurricular activities compared to larger districts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-granite-city\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#4<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Granite City<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Median Home Price:\u00a0<\/span>$136000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Median Home Rent:<\/span> $1050<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Cost of Living:<\/span>\u00a013% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Granite-City.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Granite City, Illinois\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">8.4<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Granite City offers affordable living with over 14 parks, modern theaters like Granite City Cinema, and a lively cultural calendar at Civic Park and the Swing Band. If a balance of culture and convenience matters, Granite City provide easy access to amenities and a vibrant lifestyle.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Wilson Park Area<\/strong>: Granite City&#8217;s largest park with trails, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and sports fields; surrounded by residential single-family homes hosting baseball tournaments and picnics.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Lincoln Place<\/strong>: Quiet suburban neighborhood with well-maintained homes, close to schools, parks, playgrounds, and shopping\u2014ideal for families.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Downtown Granite City<\/strong>: Commercial and cultural hub with affordable family housing, local businesses, restaurants like Garden Gate Tea Room and Jacobsmeyer&#8217;s Tavern, shops, and historic buildings.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market<\/strong>: Granite City&#8217;s job market centers on manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and services. Major employers include Granite City Steel Works, Granite School District, and Community Health Systems. It offers moderate stability despite potential manufacturing shifts.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recreation<\/strong>: Wilson Park provides trails, boating, camping, and picnic areas. Year-round events include Mardi Gras parades and Granite City Jam. Residents enjoy live music at venues like The Mill.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Limited Upscale Amenities<\/strong>: While Granite City has a vibrant community in terms of music and theater, it may lack some of the higher-end shopping and fine-dining found in larger cities.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fluctuating Economy<\/strong>: Huge reliance on the manufacturing and steel industries makes the local economy sensitive to downturns or closures in these sectors. Many people face challenges in finding a specialized jobs in such economic transition.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Traffic Congestion<\/strong>: There is constant traffic congestion in industrial zones, which may not only consume time but affect air quality of life for residents living nearby.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-rockford\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#5<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Rockford<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600;letter-spacing: 0.2px\">Median Home Price:<\/span>\u00a0$171,250<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600;letter-spacing: 0.2px\">Median Home Rent:<\/span>\u00a0$1,161<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600;letter-spacing: 0.2px\">Cost of Living:<\/span> 16% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Rockford-2-scaled.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">8<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Rockford remains one of the cheapest places to live in Illinois. Known as the Forest City, Rockford is surrounded by many gardens featuring many public gardens and parks, including the renowned Anderson Japanese Gardens, one of the top Japanese gardens in NA.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Rolling Green<\/strong>: Rolling Green is a quiet, well\u2011established suburban neighborhood in southeast\u2011. The lanes are lined with mid-century single\u2011family homes. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/rockford\/rolling-green\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Homes for sale in Rolling Green<\/a> are generally modest, cozy, and affordable with access to the fairway.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Edgewater<\/strong>: Edgewater sits on Rockford\u2019s west side near the Rock River and is notable for its concentration of historic homes alongside a strong neighborhood. There are many <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/rockford\/edgewater\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">homes for sale in Edgewater<\/a> from small to medium\u2011sized single\u2011family houses.<\/li>\n<li><strong>North End Square<\/strong>: This town is a laid\u2011back, historic neighborhood less than 2 miles from the Rock River, with older homes, mature trees, and tended gardens that appeal many buyers. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/rockford\/north-end-square\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Homes for sale in North End Square<\/a> typically include older single\u2011family houses with character and yard space.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market<\/strong>: Major employers include aerospace suppliers, auto\/truck component makers, healthcare, schools, and logistics, supported by a labor shed of over 1 million for added stability.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recreation<\/strong>: Attractions include Anderson Japanese Gardens, Nicholas Conservatory &amp; Gardens, Rock Cut State Park and Sinnissippi Park for outdoor activities, plus live shows at the Coronado Performing Arts Center.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>High Crime and Safety Concerns<\/strong>: Rockford has a high crime rate compared with most US cities, ranking among the less safe cities in Illinois with elevated rates of property crimes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>High Property Taxes<\/strong>: Property taxes are relatively high, which can offset some of the benefit of Rockford\u2019s low home prices and overall affordable cost of living.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Job Limitations<\/strong>: Although Rockford has diverse job network, it still faces pockets of high unemployment and limited specialised jobs compared with bigger cities. Unemployment lurks in Rockford both above state and national average.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-charleston\" class=\"wp-block-group has-small-font-size\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#6<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Chareleston<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Median Home Price:<\/span>\u00a0$170,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Median Home Rent:<\/span>\u00a0$900<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Cost of Living:<\/span> 8% \u2b06\ufe0f\u00a0than the state average.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Charleston.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Chareleston, Illinois\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">7.7<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Charleston blends classic small-town Illinois charm with a college-town vibe as home to Eastern Illinois University. It offers history at the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Museum, outdoor fun at Fox Ridge Park, and affordable homes for young professionals and families.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Charleston South<\/strong>: Mostly rural-feeling edge-of-city area with medium to large single-family homes and easy drive to Fox Ridge State Park for hiking and picnics.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Charleston East<\/strong>: Established east-side neighborhood with older homes, small rentals, some student housing, quick access to main roads, services, schools, and a short ride to Lake Charleston.<\/li>\n<li><strong>City Center<\/strong>: Historic downtown around the courthouse square with older homes, small apartments, shops, restaurants, and a mix of affordable houses and government quarters.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market<\/strong>: Key employers include Eastern Illinois University, Vesuvius USA, and CCAR Industries, plus service jobs at Walmart, Aldi, and fast food. Stable but limited diversification, with few specialized roles.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recreation<\/strong>: Vibrant arts at EIU&#8217;s Doudna Fine Arts Center with year-round performances and exhibits, plus family playgrounds, fun centers, parks for hiking, and biking make Charleston a great place to live in.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Safety Concerns<\/strong>: Charleston&#8217;s overall crime rate is higher than the national average, and higher than about 80% of the state average with property crime in particular above the national norms.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Narrow Job Market<\/strong>:\u00a0\u00a0Outside Eastern Illinois University and a handful of manufacturers and service providers, the local job base is relatively small and not very diverse, which can be a real drawback for professionals.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Car Dependence:<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0Public transport is minimal, so a car is practically necessary for commuting, shopping, and regional trips.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-bloomington\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#7<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Bloomington<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Median Home Price:<\/span>\u00a0$232,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Median Home Rent:<\/span>\u00a0$1,300<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Cost of Living:<\/span> 13% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Bloomington.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Bloomington, Illinois\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">6.9<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p><span style=\"color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0.4px; background-color: #f3f6fa;\">Bloomimgton offers cheap living in Illinois without sacrificing quality of life. As a college town home to the\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;\"><span style=\"letter-spacing: 0.4px;\">Illinois Wesleyan University<\/span><\/span><span style=\"background-color: #f3f6fa; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0.4px;\">, it\u2019s filled with energy, cultural events, and steady job opportunities. With cheap homes for sale in Bloomington, you can build a future in a city that values education, sustainability, and community.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li>\u00a0<strong>Fox Creek Road:\u00a0<\/strong> This is a newer, higher-end suburban area on Bloomington&#8217;s southwest side. It features many single-family homes with spacious lots near the fairways. Residents can jump out on short drives to nearby parks a well as the Constitution Trail.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Northwest Union:\u00a0<\/strong>It sits just north of downtown and west of Illinois Wesleyan University, and is also one of the oldest neighborhoods in Illinois. People can access downtown shops, cafes and catch events easily.<\/li>\n<li><strong>South Hill:<\/strong> South Hill lies less than a mile south of downtown, making it a close\u2011in, mixed residential neighborhood popular with first\u2011time buyers and long\u2011term families. Local parks, playgrounds, and short routes to the Constitution Trail provide options for walking, biking, and kids\u2019 outdoor play.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market<\/strong>: Stable, with opportunities in finance, education, manufacturing, and healthcare, led by employers like State Farm, Illinois State University, Rivian, and Carle BroMenn Medical Center.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recreation<\/strong>: Strong arts and culture scene with the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts, museums, and a growing craft beer scene, plus the Constitution Trail for walking, biking, and connecting parks and neighborhoods.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Poor Healthcare Facilities: <\/strong>Locals frequently complain about difficulty getting timely appointment, limited specialists availability, and uneven medical providers. This is major setback if you are on ongoing medical needs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Higher Crime Rate:\u00a0<\/strong>Bloomington is not a low-crime bubble. Property crimes in particular is a concern in some areas with the overall crime rate being higher the national average.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Geographic Isolation: <\/strong>The city is isolated with atlest a drive of roughly 2-2.5 hours to reach Chicago and St. Louis. There is an airport with limited commercial service, but for major flights many people still connect through Chicago or other hubs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-freeport\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#8<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Freeport<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600;letter-spacing: 0.2px\">Median Home Price:<\/span>\u00a0$127,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600;letter-spacing: 0.2px\">Median Home Rent:<\/span>\u00a0$2,250<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600;letter-spacing: 0.2px\">Cost of Living:<\/span> 19% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Freeport.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Freeport, Illinois\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">6.5<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Freeport is the largest city and county seat of Stephenson County in northwestern Illinois. Known as the \u201cPretzel City,\u201d the city blends rich history with relaxing attractions, including many parks like the Krape Park. From single-family homes to manufactured properties, there are many cheap homes available in Freeport.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Read Park<\/strong>: Established residential area with modest single-family homes. Features Read Park&#8217;s year-round programs like Tai-Chi, an 11,000 sq ft skate park, Aquatic Center, and nearby schools like Freeport High School.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Freeport Eas<\/strong>t: Older single-family homes below national average prices, with historic tree-lined streets and 100-year-old houses. Includes local taverns, diners, and shops on East Main Street for casual food, drinks, and sports.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Willow Lake<\/strong>: Small lake-centered community north of Freeport in Stephenson County. Remote with shoreline access for non-motorized boating, limited fishing, skating, and seasonal activities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market<\/strong>: Freeport residents are employed in manufacturing, healthcare, insurance, education, and government jobs, including Freeport Health Network. Some use Route 20 for Rockford-area due to limited employment.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recreation<\/strong>: Freeport features small-city parks like Krape Park with waterfalls, antique carousel, mini-golf, disc golf, paddle boats, trails, and sledding. Read Park offers the Family Aquatic Center and other activities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Poor Job Market<\/strong>: Limited employment beyond fast food or Walmart; many commute elsewhere due to factory closures and economic decline.<\/li>\n<li><strong>High Crime and Poverty<\/strong>: Perceptions of danger, especially on the east side, with rising issues tied to poverty.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Poor Infrastructure<\/strong>: Pothole-filled roads leads to increased car-damage leading to high utility costs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-belleville\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#9<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Belleville<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Median Home Price:<\/span>\u00a0$150,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Median Home Rent:<\/span>\u00a0$2,300<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600; letter-spacing: 0.2px;\">Cost of Living:<\/span> 18% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/belleville-scaled.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Belleville, Illinois\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">6.3<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>This German-influenced small city is one of the more affordable places to live in Illinois. The city offers access to many beautiful Cathedrals like the Roman Catholic Diocese and the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows.\u00a0 Cheap homes for sale in Belleville appeal to both families and retirees seeking budget-friendly beach living.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Downtown Belleville:\u00a0<\/strong>Downtown Belleville centers on the long, historic Main Street and the Downtown Public Square. The town offers a relatively low cost of living alongside a vibrant lifestyle filled with history and music.<\/li>\n<li><strong>West Belleville:\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong>This town homes predominantly modest single-family homes and ranches. This town appeals to first-time buyers who want affordability and easy access to the City Center. Cafes, restaurants and galleries make up most of the streets offering fun lifestyle in the area.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Signal Hill:\u00a0<\/strong>The neighborhood features larger, older custom homes on bluff\u2011top lots shaded by mature trees and surrounded by upscale amenities. Residents enjoy scenic daily walks and jogs along hilly streets with sweeping views over the Mississippi River Valley.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Marke<\/strong>t: Belleville has a diverse, metro-adjacent job market in healthcare, manufacturing, retail, education, and public sector roles, with many residents connected to Scott Air Force Base, the area\u2019s biggest economic driver.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recreation:<\/strong> Belleville Parks &amp; Recreation offers Citizens Park with ballfields, Bellevue Park with a fishing lake, and the 200-acre Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows for devotional gardens and walking paths.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Limited Dining Options<\/strong>: Residents often say there are relatively few restaurant choices, especially if you want more vegetarian options or a diverse menu. Many people drive to St. Louis for more options.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Mixed School Reviews<\/strong>: Public school ratings are mixed, with some families expressing concerns about academic performance, discipline, and resources, leading many who can afford it to look at private or neighboring\u2011district options.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Aging Infrastructure<\/strong>: Certain corridors and older neighborhoods show visible wear and tear. This makes the city feel &#8220;run-down&#8221; in many spots compared with newer places in Illinois.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"cheapest-place-to-live-in-illinois-clinton\" class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"houzoTabBlock houzoTabBlockBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoToptab\"><div class=\"houzeoTabBlockTopRow houzeoTabBlockTopRowBPTLCPTL\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"left_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"city_rank\">#10<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"city_name\">Clinton<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"city_rating_list\"><ul>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600;letter-spacing: 0.2px\">Median Home Price:<\/span>\u00a0$173,000<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600;letter-spacing: 0.2px\">Median Home Rent:<\/span>\u00a0$2,700<\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 600;letter-spacing: 0.2px\">Cost of Living:<\/span> 6.5% \u2b07\ufe0f than the state average.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"right_col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Clinton-scaled.webp\" alt=\"Cheapest places to live in Clinton, Illinois\" class=\"city_image\" \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopright\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTopRightIn\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"ratingStarSingle fiveStar\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoLogoRightCount\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<abbr class=\"fiveStar\">5.1<\/abbr>\/10\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"houzeoRightRatingBox\"><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoBottomTab\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabLabelInnerWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel active\">\ud83d\udca1 Our Take<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83d\udccd Neighborhoods<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel\">\ud83c\udf89 Jobs &amp; Fun<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoLabel \">\ud83d\udea9 Dealbreakers<span class=\"downTringle\"><\/span><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoTabContentWrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeofirstDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><p>Clinton offers a true Illinois lifestyle with quick access to Weldon Springs State Park. Residents enjoy year-round sunshine, modest-deatched neighborhoods, and a close-knit community.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"background-color: #f3f6fa; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.8); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0.4px;\">\ud83d\udc49 <\/span>Browse cheap <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/clinton\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">homes for sale in Clinton<\/a> and find your perfect property now.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Clinton East<\/strong>: In this part of the town you mainly see single-family homes and apartment buildings. Residents have easy access to the Clinton Lake with people relying on the same schools, parks, and downtown amenities as everyone else in Clinton.<\/li>\n<li><strong>City Center:\u00a0<\/strong>Features older single-family homes, small apartments, and mixed-use buildings over storefronts. Walkable to restaurants, shops, and churches, with City Center as the hub. This neighborhood is perfect for people looking forward to a lively lifestyle.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Southwest Clinton:\u00a0<\/strong>Residents here typically enjoy quieter streets, faster access to farm roads and the routes leading toward Clinton Lake and Weldon Springs, while still being a short drive from downtown shops, schools, and services in the city center.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Job Market<\/strong>:\u00a0 Clinton has a diverse job market with over 1,000 openings across sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, logistics and trade. Employment aligns with regional trends in Illinois. This makes Clinton a promising location for both entry-level and professional job seekers.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recreation<\/strong>: The city offers Clinton Lake State Recreation Area, a vast 9,300-acre facility located 10 miles east of Clinton, which provides extensive outdoor activities including fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and winter sports. There are seven well-maintained parks including Kiwanis Park in the city.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"houzeoDescContent houzeoLastDescContent\"><div class=\"contentDesc\"><ul>\n<li><strong>Limited Job Market Size<\/strong>: While there are job opportunities, the market is not diverse and does not cover many career advancing options in specialized fields.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Harsh Winters<\/strong>: Winters can be harsh with cold temperatures, snow, and potential transportation challenges common to the Midwest.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Limited Public Transportation<\/strong>: Public transportation options are limited, so owning a vehicle is typically necessary for commuting and daily errands.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-houzeo-grey-text blue-box-content-list\"><strong>\ud83d\udc49 Pro Tip: <\/strong>: If you\u2019re searching along Chicago\u2019s neighborhoods, you can find a wide range of relatively <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/chicago\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">affordable homes in Chicago<\/a> with strong rental potential, from areas like Rogers Park to West Ridge.<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-custom-accordion custom-accordion margin-top-15\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-custom-accordion-item accordion-item\"><button class=\"accordion-header\"><span class=\"accordion-title\">What is the cheapest and safest place to live in Illinois?<\/span><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"840px\" height=\"450px\" class=\"accordion-icon\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/flat-fee-mls\/faqArrow.svg\" alt=\"toggle\"\/><\/button><div class=\"accordion-content\">\n<p>Arlington (safety score of 94) and Shaumburg (safety score of 97) are the cheapest and <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/safest-places-to-live\/illinois\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">safest cities in Illinois<\/a>. They offer low crime rates, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a lively, welcoming lifestyle.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:15px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-28\" id=\"cheapest-places-in-california-to-live\"><strong>Top 3 Cheapest Cities to Live in Illinois for Young Adults<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When you\u2019re searching for the cheapest city to live in Illinois, you need more than low rent. You want good jobs, a fun lifestyle, and a place where you can grow. These Illinois cities offer all of that, with affordable homes and strong job markets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Rank<\/th><th>City<\/th><th>Why It&#8217;s Great for Young Adults<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>1.<\/td><td><strong>Bloomington<\/strong><\/td><td>Bloomington with a median home value of $244,782, rent at $1,300 stands out as a great pick for the youth. It hosts Illinois State University and Illinois Wesleyan University, fostering a vibrant young demographic. With over 100&nbsp;<a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/bloomington\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">homes for sale in Bloomington<\/a>, the town offers a good residence for people just starting out their careers or still studying. <\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2.<\/td><td><strong>Peoria<\/strong><\/td><td>With homes at $160,500 and a growth rate of 1.74% job growth fueled by employers like Haldex and Bergstrom in manufacturing and tech. Easy access to Chicago makes Peoria especially attractive for people looking for affordable <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/peoria\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">homes for sale in Peoria<\/a>.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3.<\/td><td><strong>Rockford<\/strong><\/td><td>Rockford offers solid career options in healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and education, with thousands of openings across hospitals, factories, and distribution centers.&nbsp;With many affordable&nbsp;<a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/rockford\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">homes for sale in Rockford<\/a> around $165,000 far below big-city markets\u2014young adults can save more while still enjoying urban amenities and easy access to Chicago<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-28\" id=\"cheap-city-families\"><strong>Top 3 Inexpensive Places to Live in Illinois for Families<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>With many affordable apartments in Illinois, it is a great place for families. You get all four seasons and many ways to enjoy the outdoors. The state also has strong public schools, especially in its suburbs and college towns. Illinois does have a flat 4.95% state income tax. But many cities still offer affordable homes and a cost of living lower than the U.S. average.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Rank<\/th><th>City<\/th><th>Why It&#8217;s Great for Families<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>1.<\/td><td><strong>Hoopeston<\/strong><\/td><td>Hoopeston is one of the cheapest places to live in with median houses at $195,000. With outdoor recreation and pocket-friendly homes for sale in Hoopeston, the city offers you all the perfect amenities for your family.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2.<\/td><td><strong>Decatur<\/strong><\/td><td>Decatur offers family services like free community events, low-cost health clinics, and strong public schools. With affordable <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/decatur\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">homes for sale in Decatur<\/a> and healthcare alongside affordable colleges in Illinois like Lake Land College makes the city a great pick for families. <\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3.<\/td><td><strong>Granite City<\/strong><\/td><td>Granite City is an excellent choice for families with many affordable towns in Illinois options supported by median household income that supports a stable, working-class community with access to local jobs in manufacturing and transport sectors making a a go-to Illinois city for families.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"best-places-to-retire-on-a-budget\"><strong>3 Best Affordable Places to Live in Illinois for Retirees<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Illinois is a retiree\u2019s haven. In these affordable cities in Illinois, you can find affordable homes, accessible healthcare, and safe communities.&nbsp;There are many opportunities to enjoy a relaxed and active lifestyle with affordable living options. These are some of the cheapest places to retire in Illinois:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>Rank<\/th><th>City<\/th><th>Why It&#8217;s Great for Retirees<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>1.<\/td><td><strong>Freeport<\/strong><\/td><td>Retirees in Freeport outdoor activities such as walking through serene parks, fishing in local lakes, and the affordable <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/freeport\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">homes for sale in Freeport<\/a><br>make it easy to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2.<\/td><td><strong>Belleville<\/strong><\/td><td>In Belleville, retirees have access to dependable care at the Memorial Hospital Belleville, providing excellent medical care for seniors. &nbsp;Its proximity to St. Louis adds access to larger city amenities while maintaining a quiet lifestyle. With affordable <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/belleville\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">homes for sale in Belleville<\/a>, it\u2019s easy to enjoy a quiet, low-cost retirement.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3.<\/td><td><strong>Charleston<\/strong><\/td><td>Charleston offers a quiet inland living with access to\u202fSarah Bush Lincoln Health Center\u202ffor reliable medical care. Retirees can enjoy outdoor activities at Henson Robinson Zoo, Lake Charleston, and several city parks You can find <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/charleston\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">homes for sale in Charleston<\/a>. and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle close to the beach.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"cheaper-places-to-live-in-illinois\"><strong>3 Hidden Costs to Consider in<\/strong> <strong>Illinois<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Even in the most affordable cities in Illinois, home prices are only part of the cost. So, factor in earthquake, flood coverage and incidental wildfires along with property taxes when looking for the cheapest area to live in Illinois.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Flood Insurance:<\/strong> Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is bought separately from FEMA\u2019s <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.fema.gov\/about\/glossary\/national-flood-insurance-program-nfip\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">National Flood Insurance Program<\/a> and often costs around $1,700 per year in Illinois.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Earthquake Insurance:<\/strong> Southern Illinois has some earthquake risk because of the New Madrid Seismic Zone. But most standard home insurance policies do not cover earthquake damage. You need a separate policy for that.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Property Taxes:<\/strong> Illinois <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/property-tax\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">property taxes<\/a> typically range from 1.5% to 3.5% of assessed home value, varying by county and adding to yearly ownership costs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-houzeo-grey-text blue-box-content-list\">\ud83d\udc49 <strong>Quick Tip:<\/strong> Illinois\u2019 General Homestead Exemption is a property tax break for people who live in their home as their main residence. In most counties, it cuts the assessed value by up to about $6,000, and in some areas a bit more. <\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\"><strong>Savings Breakdown: Cheapest Cities in Illinois to Live In<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Housing costs vary dramatically across Illinois. Decatur residents save $2,076 monthly compared to Chicago and $300 compared to Rockford. The following table breaks down these savings by median home price, monthly mortgage, property tax, insurance, and total monthly costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><thead><tr><th>City<\/th><th>Median Home Price<\/th><th>Avg. Monthly Mortgage<\/th><th>Insurance\/taxes<\/th><th>Estimated Monthly Cost for a Single Person <\/th><th>Monthly Savings vs. Miami<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Decatur<\/strong><\/td><td>$129,000<\/td><td>$700<\/td><td>$185<\/td><td>$1,600<\/td><td>$2,076<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Rockford<\/strong><\/td><td>$171,250<\/td><td>$500<\/td><td>$250<\/td><td>$1,900<\/td><td>$1,776<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Chicago<\/strong><\/td><td>$380,000<\/td><td>$600<\/td><td>$1,150<\/td><td>$3,676<\/td><td>  &#8211;<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Source: <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.expatistan.com\/cost-of-living\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Expatistan<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\"><strong>Affordable Living Beyond Illinois<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Not sure if the cheapest places in Illinois to live will fit your budget? Here are a few surrounding states that offer major business incentives, a strong job market, and endless outdoor recreation, just like Illinois. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\"><strong>Business Incentives<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Indiana offers attractive business incentives for relocations and expansions, including the Headquarters Relocation Tax Credit. Here are the top 3 <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/cheapest-places-to-live-in-indiana\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cheapest places to live in Indiana<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Gary:<\/strong>&nbsp;Very low home prices and below\u2011average property taxes keep total housing costs and tax bills modest. That keeps the total monthly housing cost far below most US cities.\u200b<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Muncie:<\/strong> Affordable homes, rents, and Indiana&#8217;s flat income tax yield a light tax burden versus other states.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Marion:<\/strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;Cost of living and property taxes 20\u201325% below US averages, with especially low housing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\"><strong>Robust Job Market<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"margin-top-28\">Among cheap states near Illinois, Wisconsin\u2019s smaller cities often pair affordability with solid regional job bases in manufacturing, healthcare, and services. Here are the top 3 <a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/cheapest-places-to-live-in-wisconsin\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cheapest places to live in Wisconsin<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Wisconsin Rapids:<\/strong>&nbsp;Paper, manufacturing, and healthcare drive a stable economy with affordable housing, appealing to blue- and white-collar workers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Merrill:<\/strong>&nbsp;Low home prices pair with diverse jobs from employers like Church Mutual Insurance, Weinbrenner Shoe, AGRA Industries, and Merrill schools.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Antigo:<\/strong>&nbsp;Modest, diverse jobs in manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and services support its low-cost lifestyle.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-15\"><strong>Recreation and Climate:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Missouri offers some of the most affordable beach towns on the Gulf Coast, perfect for retirees and families seeking coastal living at a great value. Here are the&nbsp;<a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/cheapest-places-to-live-in-missouri\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cheapest places to live in Missouri<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><strong>St. Joseph<\/strong>:<\/strong> St. Joseph offers a four-season climate ideal for year-round outdoor activities, with median homes at $180,000, rents near $900, and access to parks, trails, museums, and historic sites.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><strong>Sikeston<\/strong>:<\/strong> Sikeston features mild Midwestern weather for events and festivals, homes averaging $149,000, rents $800\u2013$900, plus parks and recreational spaces for families and retirees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kennett:<\/strong>&nbsp;Kennett enjoys warm, sunny Southern-style climate for recreation, with median homes near $102,000, rents $560\u2013$570, and amenities like parks, golf, and fishing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading margin-top-25\" id=\"where-are-the-cheapest-places-to-live-in-illinois\"><strong>Where Is the Cheapest Place to Live in Illinois?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Decatur, Peoria, and Hoopeston are the most affordable cities to live in Illinois. These areas offer more than low prices; they also provide steady job markets, plenty of recreation, and a cost of living 15% lower than the national norm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a       href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/moving-to-illinois\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Moving to Illinois<\/a> also offers valuable business incentives, with property taxes averaging at 2.07-2.11%. Whether you\u2019re relocating or buying your first home, you can browse listings, compare prices, and make offers online. <\/p>\n\n\n\t<div  class=\"hfsWidget \" data-widget-title=\"Find affordable homes in Illinois \ud83c\udfd9\ufe0f\" data-widget-list-item1=\"1st item\" data-widget-list-item2=\"2nd item\" data-widget-list-item3=\"3rd item\" data-widget-type=\"buyer1\" data-widget-vendor-type=\"inspector\" data-widget-state=\"il\" data-widget-city=\"\" data-widget-redirect-url=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/cheap-homes-for-sale\" data-widget-redirect-text=\"Cheap homes for sale in Illinois\" data-widget-button-url=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\" data-widget-button-text=\"\" data-widget-min-price=\"0\" data-widget-max-price=\"0\" data-widget-min-area=\"0\" data-widget-max-area=\"0\" data-widget-sidebar=\"false\">\n        <div class=\"widgetMainBox mainBox456\">\n        <div class=\"widgetBox widgetBox3 buyer-one\">\n            <div class=\"widgetTop\" style=\"display: flex;\">\n                <div class=\"widgetTopcont\">\n                    <div class=\"homePageQuickListing -page homepage widgetInBox3 hfs_new_design_widget\">\n                      <div class=\"HeaderTopSidebar\"> \n                        <p class=\"headerStyle\">Find affordable homes in Illinois \ud83c\udfd9\ufe0f<\/p>\n                                                                         <div class=\"widgetList skeleton skeleton-text\">\n                            <p>View 25,261 homes for sale in <span\n                            class=\"propertyStateSpan\">IL<\/span><\/p>                            \n                        <\/div>\n                                                                      <\/div>  \n                        <div class=\"verifyFieldForm addInput\">\n                            <div class=\"inputSearchBox\">\n                                <div class=\"inputBoxElement addressBar\">\n                                    <input type=\"text\" name=\"ITBTtRE\" id=\"buyerAutocomplete\"\n                                        placeholder=\"Enter an address, city, neighborhood, or ZIP\"\n                                        class=\"pac-target-input buyerAutocomplete\" autocomplete=\"off\">\n                                <\/div>\n                                <span class=\"errorStreetMsg errorMsg\">Please enter valid address<\/span>\n                            <\/div>\n                            \n                            <div class=\"inputSubmitBox\">\n                                                                <button id=\"buyerBtnBox456\" class=\"continueCta storeAddress next_btn buyerBtnBox\">Search\n                                    <span class=\"arrowContinue\"><\/span><\/button>\n                            <\/div>\n                        \n                        <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"widgetInsideBox\">\n                <div class=\"widgetPropertyBoxNew\" id=\"propertyContainer\">\n                <div class=\"widgetPropertyInnerBox\">   \n                 \t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetPropColumnNew halfWidthCard\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes\/540-w-120th-st-chicago-il-60628\/hzid_92aff4c3\" class=\"widgetAnchorColumnLink\" target=\"_blank\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetImageBox\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.houzeo.com\/idx\/media\/2\/MRMMRD12575400\/1_699cd7fbec86912dd0977766_b4334d1137_dim_640X450.webp\" alt=\"\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/seller\/listing\/uploads\/listing_images\/thumbnails\/empty-property.jpg';\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/idx\/MRED_1712309001-xs.webp\" alt=\"logo\" class=\"insideWidgetLogo\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetTextBox\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <p class=\"priceText\">$89,900<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <span class=\"addressText\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t540 w 120th st, <br\/>chicago, IL 60628\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"suummarize-info grey-img\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/blog\/blog-info-gray.svg\" alt=\"\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t <span class=\"voult-tooltip-box\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"info-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"fz-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tListing Provided by: Kim Van Ordstrand | CRIS Realty <br>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSource: MRED MLS-IL | MLS#: 12575400<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetPropColumnNew halfWidthCard\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes\/4211-w-gladys-ave-chicago-il-60624\/hzid_47660ee8\" class=\"widgetAnchorColumnLink\" target=\"_blank\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetImageBox\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.houzeo.com\/idx\/media\/2\/MRMMRD12550606\/42_696f3fee9936980c58ef814f_60f2c938e9_dim_640X450.webp\" alt=\"\" onerror=\"this.src='https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/seller\/listing\/uploads\/listing_images\/thumbnails\/empty-property.jpg';\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/idx\/MRED_1712309001-xs.webp\" alt=\"logo\" class=\"insideWidgetLogo\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <div class=\"widgetTextBox\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <p class=\"priceText\">$499,000<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <span class=\"addressText\">\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t4211 w gladys ave, <br\/>chicago, IL 60624\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"suummarize-info grey-img\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dtpwvruv8ddnl.cloudfront.net\/images\/blog\/blog-info-gray.svg\" alt=\"\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t <span class=\"voult-tooltip-box\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"info-wrap\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"fz-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tListing Provided by: Shaheen Pervaiz | Exit Strategy Realty <br>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSource: MRED MLS-IL | MLS#: 12550606<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t   <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t                        <div class=\"widgetPropColumnNew fullWidthCard \">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/homes-for-sale\/illinois\/cheap-homes-for-sale\" class=\"widgetanctextfind widgetancTextForAll\" target=\"_blank\">Cheap homes for sale in Illinois<span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/houzeo-media-1.s3.amazonaws.com\/homes-for-sale\/blue-arrow.svg\" alt=\"arrow\" width=\"11\" height=\"10\"><\/span> \n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n                   <\/div>   \n               \n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n       \n    <\/div>\n\t<script>\n    document.addEventListener(\"DOMContentLoaded\", function() {        \n        if (!window.assetsLoaded) {\n            window.assetsLoaded = true;\n            var version = (typeof customData !== 'undefined' && customData.customVersion) ? customData.customVersion : '1.0';\n            loadScript('\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/houzeo-new-design\/js\/hfs-widget.js?version=' + version);\n            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Hoopeston 2. Decatur 3. Granite City 4. Freeport 5. Clinton 6. Charleston 7....<\/p><\/div><div class=\"reading_date\"><span class=\"readtime\">11 mins read<\/span><span class=\"date\">Jun 02, 2026<\/span><\/div>","protected":false},"author":102,"featured_media":505787,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[46225,46263],"tags":[49586,49585,49581,49582,49583],"class_list":["post-449414","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-buyer","category-cheapest-places-to-live","tag-cheapest-and-safest-places-to-live-in-illinois","tag-cheapest-city-in-illinois-to-buy-a-house","tag-cheapest-homes-in-illinois","tag-cheapest-houses-in-illinois","tag-cheapest-rent-in-illinois"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>10 Cheapest Places to Live in Illinois (2026 Updates)<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Here are the cheapest places to live in Illinois: 1. Decatur 2. Peoria 3. Hoopeston 4. Granite City 5. Rockford 6. Charleston...\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/cheapest-places-to-live-in-illinois\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"10 Cheapest Places to Live in Illinois (2026 Updates)\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Here are the cheapest places to live in Illinois: 1. Decatur 2. Peoria 3. Hoopeston 4. Granite City 5. Rockford 6. Charleston...\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/cheapest-places-to-live-in-illinois\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Houzeo Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-06-02T08:28:31+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-06-02T08:28:42+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.houzeo.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Illinois.webp\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"810\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"435\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/webp\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Pooja Mahabadi\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Pooja Mahabadi\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"10 minutes\" \/>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"10 Cheapest Places to Live in Illinois (2026 Updates)","description":"Here are the cheapest places to live in Illinois: 1. 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