What is the cost of living in Illinois?
This article takes you through everything you need to know, from housing costs to how much you'll pay for groceries.
If you’re planning to move to Illinois but want to get to grips with the ins and outs before you pack up, here are some current statistics related to the cost of living in Illinois.
Summary
The Bureau of Economic Analysis estimates that, on average, an Illinois resident spends $49,558 per year.
As of March 2023, the average home value in Illinois is estimated to be around $236,049.
People living in Chicago pay over $327 for groceries and food on average each month.
According to MIT, a single adult with no children can expect to pay upwards of $5,300 for transport each year.
Speak to a financial advisor about getting and staying on top of your finances.
What is the average cost of living in Illinois?
Illinois is the sixth most populous state in the US, with over 12.5 million people calling it home.
According to data gathered in 2022 from MERIC, the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center, it has a relatively average cost of living—ranking 17th from the lowest to the highest states.
While the Bureau of Economic Analysis estimates on average, that an Illinois resident spends $49,558 per year, per the bureau’s 2021 data.
How much is housing in Illinois?
As of March 2023, the average home value in Illinois is estimated to be around $236,049, according to the Zillow Home Value Index as of March 2023.
It’s important to note that housing prices can significantly differ across various regions within the state. Here are some examples of typical home prices based on Zillow's data:
| City | Average Home Value |
|---|---|
| Chicago | $281,259 |
| Aurora | $265,602 |
| Rockford | $138,330 |
| Joliet | $207,237 |
| Naperville | $497,926 |
For those considering renting in Illinois, the monthly rental price for a two-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,107.
What are the average utility costs in Illinois?
Utility costs play a significant role in Illinois's overall cost of living. According to Forbes, the average monthly cost is around $412.36.
| Utility | Average cost in Illinois |
|---|---|
| Energy bill | $95.86 |
| Monthly water bill | $26 |
| Internet | $30 |
| Natural gas | $97 |
| Phone bill | $114 |
| Streaming | $49.50 |
How much do groceries and food cost in Illinois?
When it comes to groceries and food costs, Illinois generally aligns with prices found elsewhere in the United States.
According to Zippia, those in Chicago pay over $327 on average each month.
According to 2021 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average spending on food at home is $5,259 annually, or about $438 per month for US households.
How much does transportation cost in Illinois?
Transportation costs, including gas prices and vehicle maintenance, impact Illinois's overall cost of living.
According to MIT, a single adult with no children can expect to pay upwards of $5,300.
Gas prices in Illinois are typically in and around the national average. At the time of writing, Illinois was slightly above the national average. These prices fluctuate over time.
It is also worth noting that prices can vary across different regions within the state.
How much is healthcare in Illinois?
Understanding healthcare expenses is crucial when considering the cost of living.
The specific healthcare costs in Illinois can vary depending on factors such as insurance coverage and individual circumstances. Therefore, it is advisable to research and consult with healthcare providers and insurance companies to obtain accurate cost estimates.
MIT estimates:
| Scenario | Annual healthcare expenditure |
|---|---|
| One adult, no children | $3,287 |
| One adult, one child | $8,491 |
| One adult, two children | $8,502 |
| Two adults (one working), no children | $6,886 |
| Two adults (one working), one child | $8,502 |
| Two adults (one working), two children | $8,427 |
| Two adults (two working), no children | $6,886 |
| Two adults (two working), one child | $8,502 |
| Two adults (two working), two children | $8,427 |
Check out the average cost of health insurance in the US here.
How much does childcare cost in Illinois?
Families in Illinois currently pay around $9,946 per year for childcare for one child. This figure doubles for two children.
However, it's important to note that this figure can vary across the state.
How much tax will I pay in Illinois?
Illinois’s state income tax rate is a flat rate of 4.95%.
Here's a comparison of income tax rates among some neighboring states:
| State | Income Tax Rate Range |
|---|---|
| Illinois | 4.95% flat rate |
| Wisconsin | 3.54% - 7.65% |
| Indiana | 3.23% flat rate |
| Missouri | 1.5% - 5.4% |
| Iowa | 0.33% - 8.53% |
The sales tax rate in Illinois consists of a state sales tax and additional local sales taxes imposed by counties and municipalities. The state sales tax rate in Illinois is 6.25%. However, it's important to note that local sales tax rates can vary and may be added on top of the state sales tax rate.
In addition to the state sales tax, counties, municipalities, and other local jurisdictions impose local taxes. These local sales tax rates can range from 0.25% to 4.75%, depending on the specific location within Illinois.
You could also check out the complete guide to taxes in Illinois here.
The bottom line
The amount of money needed to live comfortably in Illinois can vary depending on location, lifestyle, family size, and personal preferences. However, as the most expensive state in the US, you may need more than you first think.
It's essential to consider these factors, along with personal circumstances and preferences, when evaluating the cost of living in Illinois. In addition, consulting with a financial advisor can provide valuable insights and assistance in managing expenses and financial planning.
Get expert financial advice and learn more about the cost of living and how to manage it with an SEC-regulated advisor. Let Unbiased match you with the best financial advisor for your needs.
Writer
Charlie Barton is a writer at Unbiased. He has been writing about personal finance and investing since 2017, with extensive knowledge of platforms and products. Charlie has a first-class degree from the London School of Economics.