Can I Afford to Live in Illinois?
Illinois - Chicago world-class city at more affordable prices than coastal metros. See median rent, home values, and the most affordable ZIP codes below.
Find ZIP Codes You Can Afford in Illinois
Enter your salary to see neighborhoods in your budget.
🏠 To Buy in Illinois
With median home value of $243,000, you'd typically need an income of at least $60,750/year and a down payment of $24,300 (10%).
🏘️ To Rent in Illinois
With median rent of $1,100/month, you should earn at least $40K/year (30% rent-to-income rule). This is below the US median of $1,163/mo.
💰 Median Income
Illinois residents earn a median household income of $72,205/year. Rent takes approximately 18% of median income.
Most Affordable ZIP Codes in Illinois
Ranked by lowest median rent, minimum population 3,000+
Top-Rated Neighborhoods in Illinois
Highest ZipScore - best combination of safety, schools, and quality of life
FAQs: Living in Illinois
What salary do I need to live comfortably in Illinois?
To live comfortably in Illinois, you'd want to earn at least $39,600/year to rent at the median price without being cost-burdened (spending more than 30% of income on housing). To buy at the median home price of $243,000, aim for a salary of $60,750+.
Is Illinois expensive to live in?
Illinois has a median rent of $1,100/month, which is below the US national median of $1,163. Cost varies significantly by city and neighborhood - the table above shows the most affordable ZIP codes in Illinois.
What is the most affordable city in Illinois?
The most affordable ZIP codes in Illinois are ranked in the table above by median rent. Smaller cities and suburbs typically offer significantly lower costs than the major metro areas. Click any ZIP code to see its full neighborhood profile.