Cost of Living in Illinois (2025-2026)
The cost of living in Illinois is 92% of the national average (US average = 100). This means living expenses in Illinois are approximately 8% lower than the typical American household. Housing, utilities, food, transportation, and healthcare costs all contribute to the overall cost of living index.
Quick Answer
The cost of living in Illinois is 92% of the US average (index of 92). Housing costs 88% of the national average, utilities 98%, food 95%, transportation 95%, and healthcare 90%. The average salary of $62,000 in Illinois has an effective purchasing power of approximately $67,391 nationally.
Key Takeaways
- The cost of living in Illinois is 8% lower than the US national average (index: 92 vs. 100).
- Housing in Illinois is 12% less expensive than the national average, making it the largest factor in the cost of living.
- A salary of $62,000 in Illinois has the purchasing power of about $67,391 in an average-cost US area.
- Use our salary calculator and mortgage calculator to determine if your income supports your desired lifestyle in Illinois.
Cost of Living Breakdown
| Category | Illinois Index | US Average | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | 92 | 100 | -8% |
| Housing | 88 | 100 | -12% |
| Utilities | 98 | 100 | -2% |
| Food | 95 | 100 | -5% |
| Transportation | 95 | 100 | -5% |
| Healthcare | 90 | 100 | -10% |
Base: US average = 100. Values above 100 indicate above-average costs.
Calculate Your Budget in Illinois
Use our free calculators to estimate your salary, mortgage, and taxes in Illinois.
Illinois Cost of Living Overview
The cost of living in Illinois is 92% of the national average, meaning residents pay approximately 8% lower for goods and services compared to the typical US household. This index is calculated based on several key categories that make up the average household budget.
For context, a household earning the Illinois average salary of $62,000 per year has an effective purchasing power of about $67,391 when adjusted for national cost differences. This adjustment is critical when comparing job offers or considering relocation between states.
Housing Costs in Illinois
Housing is typically the largest expense for households, and in Illinois it is 12% below the national average (index: 88). The median home value in Illinois is $250,000.
The relatively affordable housing market in this state is a significant advantage for residents.
Use our mortgage calculator to estimate monthly payments based on current interest rates and home prices in Illinois.
Utilities, Food, and Transportation in Illinois
Beyond housing, the main cost categories in Illinois are:
Utilities (index: 98): Below the national average by 2%.
Food (index: 95): 5% below the national average.
Transportation (index: 95): 5% below the national average.
Healthcare (index: 90): 10% below the national average.
Salary vs. Cost of Living in Illinois
The relationship between salary and cost of living is essential for financial planning. The average salary in Illinois is $62,000 per year. When adjusted for the cost of living index of 92, this salary provides a standard of living equivalent to earning approximately $67,391 in a typical US city.
Illinois has a 4.95% flat state income tax, which affects the take-home pay calculation. To estimate your actual after-tax income, use our salary calculator which accounts for both federal and state taxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Illinois?
The cost of living in Illinois is 92% of the US average, meaning expenses are 8% lower than the typical American household.
How much does housing cost in Illinois?
Housing in Illinois has a cost index of 88 (national average: 100), making it 12% less expensive than the national average. The median home value is $250,000.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Illinois?
Based on the cost of living index of 92, you would need approximately $67,391 in Illinois to maintain the same standard of living as the US average salary of $63,000. The actual amount depends on your lifestyle, family size, and housing choices.
How does Illinois cost of living compare to other states?
Illinois's cost of living index of 92 places it lower than the national average. State income tax in Illinois is: 4.95% flat. Consider both the cost index and tax burden when comparing Illinois to other states.
Sources
- US Bureau of Economic Analysis - Regional Price Parities
- Council for Community and Economic Research - Cost of Living Index
- US Census Bureau - American Community Survey
- Zillow Home Value Index
Last updated: June 2026