Cost of Living in Illinois Explained for Expats
When considering a move to Illinois, understanding the cost of living is essential, especially for expats who may be unfamiliar with the economic landscape of the region. Illinois offers a diverse range of living environments, from bustling urban centers to serene suburban communities.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the cost of living in Illinois, focusing specifically on two crucial aspects: housing and groceries. These are often the biggest components of anyone's budget, and prices can vary significantly across the state. For more information on popular locations across the state, take a look at the best places to live in Illinois here.
Cost of Housing in Illinois
When relocating to Illinois, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of housing. Whether you're looking to rent or buy, the cost of accommodation in Illinois can vary significantly depending on the city and neighborhood you choose.
Understanding housing costs is essential for expats to make informed decisions about where to live based on their budget and lifestyle preferences.
Below is a detailed overview of housing costs in some of the key cities across Illinois, you can find our full guide to housing in the USA here.
Chicago
Chicago, the largest city in Illinois, is known for its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant cultural scene. The cost of housing in Chicago varies widely depending on the neighborhood, offering a range of options from luxury high-rises to more affordable apartments.
Rent: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Chicago is around $2,100 per month, with higher costs in downtown areas and luxury buildings.
Home Prices: The median home price in Chicago is approximately $350,000, though this can vary significantly based on location, with prices higher in sought-after neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and the Gold Coast.
Neighborhoods: High-demand areas such as Lincoln Park, River North, and the West Loop have higher housing costs, while more affordable options can be found in neighborhoods like Albany Park, Avondale, and Rogers Park.
Naperville
Naperville, a suburban city located about 30 miles west of Chicago, is frequently ranked among the best places to live in the U.S.
Rent: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Naperville is around $1,800 per month, with larger homes or properties near the downtown area costing more.
Home Prices: The median home price in Naperville is approximately $450,000, reflecting its status as a desirable suburban community with high-quality amenities.
Neighborhoods: High-demand areas like Downtown Naperville and White Eagle Club have higher housing costs, while more affordable options are available in neighborhoods like Winding Creek and Old Farm.
Average Rent Prices/ Month
Elgin
Elgin, located northwest of Chicago, is known for its historic architecture and vibrant community life. The city offers a wide range of housing options, from charming older homes to modern developments.
Rent: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Elgin is around $1,300 per month, with larger homes or properties in desirable neighborhoods costing more.
Home Prices: The median home price in Elgin is approximately $280,000, making it a mid-range option within the Chicago metropolitan area, appealing to both renters and homebuyers.
Suburban Areas: Popular areas like Randall Ridge and Century Oaks have higher housing costs, while more affordable options can be found in neighborhoods like Gifford Park and Wing Park.
Springfield
Springfield, the state capital of Illinois, is steeped in history and offers a low cost of living with a small-town feel.
Rent: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Springfield is around $850 per month, with larger homes or properties in central areas costing more.
Home Prices: The median home price in Springfield is approximately $160,000, making it one of the more affordable cities in Illinois for both renters and buyers.
Suburban Areas: High-demand areas like Westchester and Leland Grove have slightly higher housing costs, while neighborhoods like Southern View and Grandview are slightly cheaper.
Rockford
Rockford, located in northern Illinois, is known for its natural beauty and industrial history. It offers some of the most affordable housing options in the state, with a variety of homes available across different neighborhoods.
Rent: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Rockford is around $900 per month, with larger homes or properties in prime locations costing more.
Home Prices: The median home price in Rockford is approximately $140,000, making it an attractive option for those looking for affordable living in Illinois.
Suburban Areas: Popular areas like Guilford Country Club Estates and Edgebrook offer higher housing costs, while more affordable options can be found in neighborhoods like Rolling Green and Keith Creek.
Cost of Groceries in Illinois
Groceries are a key component of the monthly budget, and in Illinois, the cost of groceries can vary significantly depending on the city. Generally, urban areas and those closer to Chicago tend to have higher grocery prices, while smaller cities may offer more affordable options.
Chicago
In Chicago, grocery prices are generally higher than the state average, reflecting the city's overall cost of living. Basic staples like bread, milk, and eggs can be pricier, especially in more upscale neighborhoods and downtown areas. Fresh produce is widely available, though prices can vary depending on whether you shop at organic markets, local farmer’s markets, or larger chain supermarkets. Meats and seafood, popular in Chicago’s diverse culinary scene, also tend to be more expensive, particularly in gourmet stores.
Naperville
Naperville, being a popular suburban area near Chicago, sees grocery prices that are slightly higher than the state average. The cost of essentials like milk, bread, and eggs is relatively high, especially at organic and specialty food stores. However, the presence of both large chain supermarkets and local grocery stores gives residents options to manage their grocery budget more effectively.
Elgin
In Elgin, grocery prices are more moderate compared to Chicago and Naperville, offering a more budget-friendly option for expats living in Illinois. The cost of staple items such as bread, milk, and eggs is closer to the national average, with fresh produce and meats available at competitive prices. Local markets and larger grocery chains both operate in the area, providing a range of choices for residents to manage their grocery costs.
Springfield
Springfield, as the state capital, offers some of the most affordable grocery prices among the IL cities listed. The cost of basic items like milk, bread, and eggs is lower than in the larger cities, reflecting Springfield’s lower overall cost of living. Fresh produce is readily accessible, and while prices can vary, they tend to be lower than in more urbanized areas.
Rockford
Rockford has some of the lowest grocery costs in Illinois, making it a great option for expats looking to save on living expenses. Prices for staples such as milk, bread, and eggs are typically below the state average. Fresh produce and meats are available at reasonable prices, with a variety of supermarkets and local grocery stores offering competitive pricing. This affordability extends to most grocery items, helping residents maintain a lower cost of living in this northern Illinois city.
