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Cost of Living in
Illinois

Living cost is 6.39% lower than avg
Families spend upto $8,335/mo on avg
Homeowners spend $7,891/mo on avg
Renters spend $4,510/mo on avg

Cost of Living in
Illinois

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A Breakdown of the Cost of Living in Illinois

U.S. Avg.

Illinois

Difference Diff

Home Price

$532,491

$419,085.62

21%

Apartment Rent (per month)

$1,367

$1,414.92

U.S. Avg.

Illinois

Difference Diff

Phone (per month)

$219.4

$197.94

10%

Total Energy (per month)

$200.23

$210.12

U.S. Avg.

Illinois

Difference Diff

Grocery Staples

Corn Flakes (per box)

$6.79

$5.45

20%

Frozen Corn (per bag)

$2.41

$2.3

Frozen Meal (per package)

$4.85

$3.8

22%

Cooking Oil (per bottle)

$6.16

$9.1

48%

Detergent (per bottle)

$19.51

$20.44

Facial Tissues (per box)

$2.85

$2.21

23%

Sweet Peas (per can)

$1.83

$1.72

Sugar (per bag)

$4.66

$5.02

Bread (per loaf)

$3.87

$3.98

Frying Chicken (per lb)

$1.64

$1.5

Meat & Poultry

Chicken (per lb)

$1.71

$1.55

Steak (per lb)

$14.54

$17.21

18%

Sausage (per lb)

$5.23

$5.15

Ground Beef (per lb)

$8.61

$7.95

Snacks & Beverages

Soft Drink (per bottle)

$3.45

$3.14

Potato Chips (per bag)

$5.54

$4.44

20%

Coffee (per lb)

$6.55

$6.72

Fresh Orange Juice (per half gallon)

$5.22

$5.01

Fruits & Vegetables

Peaches (per can)

$4.40

$2.78

37%

Lettuce (per head)

$1.98

$2.05

Bananas (per lb)

$0.64

$0.75

17%

Potatoes (per bag)

$5.58

$5.53

Dairy & Eggs

Parmesan Cheese (per lb)

$4.69

$4.71

Margarine (per lb)

$1.30

$1.39

Eggs (per dozen)

$3.98

$4.29

Whole Milk (per gallon)

$4.08

$4.78

17%

Seafood

Chunk Light Tuna (per can)

$1.22

$1.27

U.S. Avg.

Illinois

Difference Diff

Tire Balance (per tire)

$70.23

$64.63

Gasoline (per gallon)

$2.9

$3.26

13%

U.S. Avg.

Illinois

Difference Diff

Doctor Visit (per visit)

$116.03

$161.25

39%

Dentist Visit (per visit)

$145.11

$111.88

23%

Ibuprofen (per bottle)

$12.38

$11.96

Prescription Drug (per month)

$20.8

$23.56

13%

Optometrist Visit (per visit)

$95.27

$133.83

40%

U.S. Avg.

Illinois

Difference Diff

Women’s Slacks

$35.43

$38.3

Boys’ Jeans

$29.47

$29.8

Men’s Shirt

$39.36

$36.96

Wine (per bottle)

$7.51

$11.63

55%

Beer (per 6-pack)

$11.17

$10.31

Veterinary Services (per visit)

$65.33

$66.16

Tennis Balls (per pack)

$3.59

$4.14

15%

Yoga (per class)

$12

$19.13

59%

Movie (per ticket)

$11.67

$12.22

Newspaper (per copy)

$19.31

$11.65

40%

Washer Repair (per service)

$109.47

$90.52

17%

Women Slacks

$34.88

$37.06

Boy Jeans

$29.51

$29.06

Man Dress Shirt

$39.05

$36.85

Dry Cleaning (per item)

$13.45

$17.08

27%

Shampoo (per bottle)

$1.55

$1.52

Toothpaste (per tube)

$3.64

$4.05

11%

Beauty Salon (per visit)

$47.5

$45.86

Haircut (per cut)

$27.08

$27.65

Fried Chicken (per serving)

$4.37

$5.46

25%

Pizza (per pizza)

$11.99

$12.96

Hamburger (per serving)

$5.28

$5.51

The cost of living in Illinois is 6.39% lower than the national median. From the iconic skyscrapers of Chicago to the historic charm of Galena, Illinois offers a diverse range of lifestyles. The state is a powerhouse for industries like healthcare, logistics, finance, and manufacturing. Whether you're advancing your career or settling into suburban life, Illinois has a lot to offer. While housing is more affordable than the national average, higher taxes and transportation costs contribute to the state's overall elevated cost of living.

Housing in Illinois is 21% lower than the national median. The median home price in Illinois is $419,085.62, compared to $443,262 nationwide. If you're planning to buy a new house in Illinois, expect to put down 15% to 20% of the purchase price as a down payment. Because the average home price in Illinois is lower, monthly mortgage payments in Illinois also tend to be 10% to 15% below the national average, depending on your loan terms and interest rate.
Renting in Illinois is 3.5% higher than the national median. The state’s average rent is $1,414.92 per month. A one-bedroom home in Illinois costs $1,670 per month, while two-bedroom units average $1,895 monthly. Urban areas like Chicago experience higher rental prices due to increased demand, whereas rural areas offer more affordable options.
Utilities are 1% lower the national median. Illinois benefits from competitive energy markets and reasonable infrastructure costs. Summer cooling and winter heating create seasonal fluctuations, but overall utility expenses remain manageable. Internet service ranges from $75 to $120 monthly, depending on the speed and provider.
Food prices in Illinois are 1% higher than the national median. A family of four can expect to spend between $1,150 and $1,450 per month on groceries, while the monthly grocery bill for single adults ranges from $375 to $550. Major grocery chains like Jewel-Osco and Mariano’s dominate urban areas, while farmers markets in cities like Urbana and Oak Park offer fresh produce at seasonal rates.
Transportation costs are 0.21% lower than the national median. The average price of gas in Illinois is $3.26 per gallon, and monthly car insurance premiums come in at $195, which is roughly 6% above the national median of $183. While rural residents rely heavily on personal vehicles, urban dwellers benefit from Chicago’s CTA system, which offers affordable alternatives to driving.
Healthcare costs in Illinois are 0.94% lower than the national median. A standard check-up typically costs $161.25. Dental cleanings cost $111.88, and ER visits without insurance can cost as much as $2,750. Illinois is home to nationally renowned institutions like Northwestern Medicine and the University of Chicago Medical Center. These provide advanced care, but may come with higher out-of-pocket expenses, especially for premium services.
Miscellaneous expenses are 4.14% lower than the national median. This includes expenditure on entertainment and personal care. Gym memberships in Illinois range from $65 to $125 monthly, depending on the facility. Illinois offers a variety of free and low-cost activities. For example, families can visit the Lincoln Park Zoo for free, while tickets to a Cubs game at Wrigley Field start around $20.

Moving to Illinois? Be ready to pay more—especially in major cities like Chicago. Just make sure your paycheck can handle it! 👉 Next Step: Compare single-family homes in Illinois.

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Is Living in Illinois Expensive?

Yes, Illinois is moderately expensive to live in, but it provides great value for the amenities and opportunities available in the state. The overall cost of living in Illinois is 6.39% lower than the national median, with food, healthcare, and transportation being the main contributors.

With $419,085.62, you can purchase a comfortable, well-equipped home in many Chicago suburbs—something that’s increasingly rare in higher-cost states. In comparison, that same budget might only cover a small condo in San Francisco or a starter home in Denver. While housing in Illinois is relatively affordable, other expenses can be higher.

Housing in Illinois

If you're buying a home in Illinois, the location makes a difference. While the statewide median home price is $419,085.62, prices can vary widely depending on the city or neighborhood. With mortgage rates currently between 6.5% and 7.5% and property taxes differing by location, your monthly payments will depend on the specific home and area you choose. Let’s take a closer look at the costs involved:

Buying a House in Illinois

For young adults or single people, one-bedroom homes in Lincoln Park or Wicker Park are solid picks. These neighborhoods feature vibrant nightlife, including Kingston Mines blues club and The Violet Hour cocktail lounge. Homes here average $280,000 to $450,000. At that price, mortgage payments range from $1,800 to $2,900 monthly, excluding insurance and taxes. Condos in Naperville and other downtown areas, like Geneva, typically cost between $200,000 and $400,000.
If you're a married couple with young children (under 6), expect to pay between $350,000 and $550,000 for a three-bedroom home in Naperville, Palatine, or Arlington Heights. These family-focused communities provide access to top-rated schools, such as Naperville Elementary and Arlington Heights Elementary. Homes with backyards in Illinois are also ideal for growing families, as they offer space and privacy.
If you're a married couple with older children (ages 6 to 17), you can find multi-family homes in Illinois for $450,000 to $750,000. Homes in Lake Forest or Hinsdale come with more space, access to public parks, like Forest Park Beach in Lake Forest and Katherine Legge Memorial Park in Hinsdale, and proximity to prestigious schools like Lake Forest High School and Hinsdale Central High School.

Renting a House in Illinois

While the overall average rent in Illinois is 3.5% higher than the national median, rental prices vary widely across the state. In the Chicago metro area, for example, rents can be significantly higher, often exceeding $1,414.92, depending on the neighborhood and apartment size. Housing costs range from high-rise apartments in downtown Chicago to more affordable rentals in cities like Springfield and Peoria. Here’s a closer look at rental prices across Illinois:

If you're a young adult or single person, rent for a one-bedroom home in Downtown Chicago or Lakeview costs $1,800 to $2,400 monthly. Downtown Chicago attracts residents with iconic venues like The Chicago Theatre and Alinea restaurant, while Lakeview offers trendy hangouts like Murphy's Bleachers and quick access to Wrigley Field.
If you're a married couple with young children (under 6), expect to pay between $2,200 and $3,200 monthly for a homes in Lincoln Square, Roscoe Village, or other family-friendly neighborhoods. These areas offer amenities like parks, quality schools, and community centers. Lincoln Square features excellent restaurants and family events at Giddings Plaza, while Roscoe Village hosts summer street festivals.
For families with older children (ages 6 to 17), renting a three-bedroom home in Evanston or a four-bedroom home in Schaumburg costs between $2,800 and $4,200 monthly. Rentals near top-rated schools, like Evanston Township High School and Schaumburg High School, tend towards the higher end of this range.
If you're downsizing, you could spend between $1,600 to $2,500 monthly to rent one- or two-bedroom condos in Downers-Grove, Oak Park, Streeterville, or Lincoln Park. These areas offer low-maintenance living and walkable entertainment districts. All four locations also offer proximity to green spaces, restaurants, and in the case of Streeterville, quick access to Northwestern Memorial Hospital.
International students should go for a shared three-bedroom apartment in Illinois, which can cost $2,400 monthly. Living with roommates in neighborhoods like Hyde Park near University of Chicago or Champaign-Urbana near University of Illinois can reduce your rent costs by 25% to 35%.

Utilities in Illinois

Food and Groceries in Illinois

Transportation in Illinois

Healthcare in Illinois

Healthcare costs in Illinois are 0.94% lower than the national median, reflecting the state's world-renowned medical institutions and urban healthcare infrastructure. Quality care here comes at slightly elevated costs; here's a breakdown:

Doctor Visit — $161.25+ per visit: Routine care in Illinois averages $161.25 per visit. Common appointments, like annual physicals, blood pressure monitoring, or prescription consultations, typically fall within this range. Specialized visits, such as cardiology or dermatology consultations, may cost $185 to $325, depending on the provider.
Dentist Visit — $111.88+ per visit: This covers routine cleanings and exams. A basic dental cleaning in Illinois costs around $111.88, while cavity fillings range from $175 to $245. Compared to states like Minnesota (around $135 for a cleaning) or Colorado (about $140, Illinois remains slightly more affordable. Even procedures like X-rays or periodontal treatments tend to be 5% to 10% below the national average.
Optometrist Visit — $133.83+ per visit: Routine eye exams in Illinois cost slightly more than the national median of $133.83. This includes vision checks and prescription updates. Specialized services, like contact lens fittings or retinal screening, can add $75 to $185 more to your bill.
Prescription Drugs — $23.56+ per package: For chronic conditions like diabetes, a month's supply of Metformin costs $18 to $32 without insurance. Hypertension medication with Lisinopril costs $15 to $26 monthly. For short-term needs, common antibiotics like Amoxicillin cost $22 to $38.
Over-the-Counter Meds — $12+ per package: Everyday essentials like ibuprofen, allergy relief, and cold medications like DayQuil average $11.96 per package. Whether you're recovering from winter illnesses or dealing with spring allergies, a well-stocked medicine cabinet goes a long way.

Healthcare in Illinois costs more than many neighboring states, but with these high costs, you also get access to world-class institutions like Northwestern Medicine, University of Chicago Medicine, and Rush University Medical Center. The state's harsh winters can increase seasonal health expenses, while its excellent public transit reduces injury-related costs compared to more car-dependent regions.
Moreover, when you are living in Illinois, it’s advisable to get a health insurance for you and your family, as the average cost of a doctor's visit in Illinois is around $135*. The monthly cost of a health insurance plan in the state typically ranges between $425* and $785*.

*Disclaimer: These figures are averages and can vary based on individual circumstances and specific insurance providers. It's recommended to compare plans and consult with insurance professionals to find the best coverage for your needs.

Miscellaneous Costs in Illinois

What Salary Do You Need to Live in Illinois?

The average salary in Illinois is 6.39% lower. The salary to live comfortably in the state ranges from $55,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on your lifestyle, family size, and location.

Homeowners spend $94,694.00 per year: Mortgage payments, property taxes, homeowners' insurance, and utilities are the primary contributors, especially in suburban areas around Chicago, where housing costs are higher.

Renters spend $54,122.00 per year: Renting in cities like Springfield or Rockford is more affordable, but those living in downtown Chicago may face premium rents, which can drive this number higher, depending on lifestyle.

Families with kids spend $100,016.00 per year: Between childcare, groceries, healthcare, school-related expenses, and the need for larger housing, families face higher annual spending. However, Illinois’ strong infrastructure and education options make it worth the investment.

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What is a Cost of Living Calculator?

A cost of living calculator helps you compare the expenses required to live in a different location. The calculator factors in various living expenses like housing, food, utilities, transportation, fitness, and entertainment, etc., and helps you estimate how much salary you need to live in that city. Since the cost of goods and services varies in different cities, a Illinois cost of living calculator can help you make the decision to move to this city or not.

About Cost of Living Data

The data used to determine living expenses in Illinois is sourced from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Published since 1968, COLI data is recognized by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This organization regularly updates its data to offer a detailed and well-researched view of living expenses in cities across the country. An independent Advisory Board reviews C2ER’s data collection methodologies and quarterly publications to ensure consistency and quality. For more information, visit www.coli.org. Data published as of Oct 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is gas in Illinois?

The cost of gas in Illinois averages $3.26 per gallon. Prices may fluctuate during winter months due to heating oil demand, or around high-traffic periods like Cubs games or Bears games. Traffic on I-94 and I-290 can lead to longer commutes and more frequent fill-ups.

Is Illinois a good place to live?

Yes, Illinois offers a strong mix of career opportunities, cultural attractions, and quality healthcare. With major airports, top-tier hospitals, and excellent schools in suburbs like Naperville and Evanston, it’s a well-rounded place to live for both professionals and families.

What is the cost of living in Illinois?

The average cost of living in Illinois is 6.39% lower than the national median. Chicago and the surrounding suburbs are on the higher end for the state, while Danville, Peoria, and Rockford rank among the most affordable places to live in Illinois.

What is the average rent in Illinois?

A one-bedroom apartment in Illinois typically rents for $1,414.92 to $2,200 per month. Desirable neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and River North charge higher rents for amenities like lakefront access and proximity to downtown Chicago.

How much is a two-bedroom apartment in Illinois?

A two-bedroom apartment in Illinois costs between $1,800 and $2,800 per month. Expect higher rents for locations with amenities or luxury homes in Naperville, Palatine, and other premium suburban communities.

What is the average price of utilities in Illinois?

Utilities in Illinois range from $340 to $527 per month. This includes electricity, natural gas, water, sewer, and trash. Heating expenses in winter can significantly increase utility bills, particularly in older homes.

How much is childcare in Illinois?

If you're moving to Illinois, expect childcare costs to range between $1,200 to $2,200 per month for toddlers. Daycare centers in Naperville and Evanston tend to cost more than in-home care arrangements in areas like Peoria or Rockford.