Illinois is a diverse state with both affordable small towns and expensive urban areas like Chicago. In 2025, the cost of living here remains slightly below the national average, making it a reasonable choice for families, students, and professionals. However, the exact expenses depend on where you live—urban centers, suburbs, or rural towns. In this guide, we’ll break down housing, utilities, food, transportation, healthcare, and affordable cities so you can plan your budget better.
Average Cost of Living in Illinois 2025
According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Illinois’ cost of living index is about 93–95, meaning it’s around 5–7% cheaper than the U.S. average.
Here’s a breakdown of common monthly expenses for a single person and a family of four:
| Expense Category | Single Person (Monthly Avg.) | Family of Four (Monthly Avg.) |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $950 – $1,400 | $1,600 – $2,200 |
| Utilities & Internet | $180 – $250 | $220 – $300 |
| Food & Groceries | $350 – $500 | $850 – $1,100 |
| Transportation | $150 – $250 | $400 – $600 |
| Healthcare | $300 – $450 | $900 – $1,400 |
| Miscellaneous (Entertainment, shopping, etc.) | $200 – $350 | $500 – $700 |
Tip: Living outside Chicago can cut your costs by 20–30%.
Housing Costs in Illinois
Housing is the biggest factor affecting living expenses.
Chicago: Median rent for a 1-bedroom is around $1,650, while buying a home averages $320,000 – $350,000.
Springfield (capital city): Rent is much cheaper, around $850 – $1,100 for a 1-bedroom.
Peoria & Rockford: You can find homes under $200,000 and rent as low as $700 – $900.
Suburban Areas (Naperville, Aurora, Evanston): More expensive, with rents averaging $1,500 – $2,200 depending on size.
- Check current listings on Zillow Illinois Housing.
Utilities & Transportation
Electricity, water, heating, internet: Around $200 – $250/month for an average household.
Gas prices in 2025: Around $3.80/gallon, slightly above the U.S. average.
Public transportation:
Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) pass: $75/month.
Other cities mostly rely on cars, so transportation costs depend on fuel and insurance.
Food & Groceries
A single person spends $350 – $500/month on groceries.
Dining out in Chicago is pricier—around $20–$25 per meal, while smaller towns average $12–$15.
Farmers’ markets and local stores are affordable in rural Illinois.
Healthcare in Illinois
Healthcare costs vary depending on insurance.
Average monthly premium (individual): $380 – $450.
Family plan: $1,100 – $1,400.
- You can compare plans through the Illinois Health Insurance Marketplace.
Affordable Cities in Illinois 2025
If you’re looking for budget-friendly places to live, here are the most affordable cities in Illinois:
Peoria – Low housing costs, strong job market in healthcare & manufacturing.
Rockford – Affordable homes, family-friendly, good schools.
Decatur – Among the cheapest cities in Illinois with median home price under $120,000.
Springfield – Affordable rentals and government job opportunities.
Champaign-Urbana – Great for students and families, home to the University of Illinois.
Is Illinois Affordable Compared to Other States?
Cheaper than New York, California, and Massachusetts.
Slightly cheaper than neighboring Wisconsin and Michigan.
More expensive than Missouri and Indiana in housing.
Final Thoughts
The cost of living in Illinois in 2025 is still affordable compared to many U.S. states, especially if you avoid high-cost areas like downtown Chicago. Families, students, and young professionals can live comfortably in cities like Peoria, Rockford, or Springfield with a modest budget.
When planning your move, always consider housing, utilities, transportation, and healthcare—the main factors that determine how much you’ll spend monthly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is Illinois cheap to live in?
Illinois is slightly more affordable than the U.S. average. Housing in smaller cities like Peoria and Springfield is much cheaper, while Chicago can be expensive.
Â
2. What is the average cost of living in Illinois in 2025?
On average, a single person spends about $2,000 – $2,500 per month, while a family of four may spend $4,500 – $5,800 per month, depending on lifestyle and location.
Â
3. What is the average salary in Illinois?
As of 2025, the median household income in Illinois is around $78,000 per year, slightly higher than the national average.
Â
4. Which city in Illinois is the most affordable?
Decatur is considered one of the most affordable cities, with low housing costs and a cost of living well below the state average.
Â
5. Is Chicago too expensive to live in?
Chicago is more expensive than other Illinois cities, especially in housing and dining. However, salaries are generally higher, and public transportation helps reduce costs.
Related Post you may like:
I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
