Illinois Living Report — July 09, 2026

Illinois, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, is an attractive destination for those considering relocation. As the sixth most populous state in the country, with a population of 12,757,634, Illinois offers a unique blend of urban and rural landscapes, making it an ideal place to call home. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the quaint towns of the countryside, Illinois has something to offer for everyone. For families, the state’s excellent education system, numerous parks, and family-friendly attractions make it an attractive choice. Retirees, on the other hand, can enjoy the state’s scenic beauty, cultural events, and relaxed pace of life. Remote workers can also thrive in Illinois, with its many coworking spaces, reliable internet connectivity, and central location, making it an ideal hub for digital nomads.

When it comes to cost of living, Illinois is relatively affordable, especially when compared to other states in the region. The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,179 per month, while the median home value is $239,100. This makes Illinois an attractive option for first-time homebuyers and renters alike. However, it’s worth noting that these prices can vary greatly depending on the location, with cities like Chicago tend to be more expensive than smaller towns and rural areas. For example, in Chicago, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment can be upwards of $1,500 per month, while in smaller towns like Springfield, it can be as low as $800 per month. To give you a better idea, the town of Champaign, home to the University of Illinois, has a relatively low cost of living, with a median rent of $1,000 per month and a median home value of $170,000.

In terms of job market, Illinois has a competitive unemployment rate, with a diverse range of industries, including healthcare, technology, and manufacturing, providing a wide range of job opportunities. The median household income is $78,433 per year, which is slightly higher than the national average. However, it’s worth noting that the poverty rate is 11.5%, which is higher than the national average. To put this into perspective, according to data from Finklick, which tracks one city in Illinois, the state’s job market is expected to continue growing, with a focus on emerging industries like renewable energy and cybersecurity. Cities like Chicago, with its strong tech industry, and the Quad Cities, with its growing healthcare sector, are expected to drive this growth.

In terms of affordability, Illinois is a mixed bag. While the cost of living is relatively low, the poverty rate is higher than the national average. To analyze affordability, let’s consider the percentage of income spent on rent. Assuming a median household income of $78,433 per year, and a median rent of $1,179 per month, renters in Illinois can expect to spend around 18% of their income on rent. This is slightly lower than the national average, making Illinois a relatively affordable state to live in. Additionally, Illinois offers a range of programs and initiatives to support low-income families and individuals, such as the Illinois Housing Development Authority, which provides affordable housing options and financial assistance.

Illinois attracts a diverse range of people, from families to retirees, and remote workers. The state’s excellent education system, numerous cultural attractions, and stunning natural beauty make it an ideal place to raise a family. Ret

Explore Illinois Cities

Browse utility costs, housing data, Census demographics, and climate data for all 1 tracked cities in Illinois.

View all Illinois city guides →

Data: US Census Bureau ACS 2022, BLS. Updated July 09, 2026.