Cost of living in Illinois: Complete guide for 2025

Darshan Shah

29 Aug 2024

Are you considering relocating to Illinois, well here’s how to go about it. It is especially important to understand the general cost of living to avoid shoal transition. This ultimate Illinois state guide explains each cost you are likely to pay for in the prairie state. 

Now, be it accommodation or meals we can provide you with an A to Z facility; from transport to medical services. Here our experts provided our audiences comprising of students, working-class people, and families concrete recommendations based on their budget. Now, let’s get down on living in Illinois and look at the best ways to manage and spend your money.

Average Cost of Living in Illinois

The cost of living in Illinois is also usually determined by the city that one needs to reside in. However, like other aspects of living here, the median age is believed to be slightly higher compared to the total median age in the United States, largely because it boasts urban environments, suburban neighbourhoods and everything in between.

Housing costs as well as other basic amenities are estimated to be about 6% more costly within Illinois than in the overall United States. This signifies that you are also capable of spending a lot of money on housing, transportation and other aspects than most of the other states.

Cost of Living in Illinois for Students

Illinois is host to some of the nation’s finest institutions of higher learning including universities and colleges which attract students across the nation and internationally. It is equally important to find out that the cost of living for students in Illinois depends on the way of life, place structure and type of tenancy they choose.

1. Living Expenses for International Students

International students living in Illinois spend $1200-$2500 on expenses such as accommodation, transport, meals, etc., apart from educational charges. This is for instance the costs for accommodation, meals, transportation and other core needs of life.

2. Living Expenses for Indian Students

Expenses in Illinois are going to be somewhat comparable to other large cities across the United States for Indian students. It may be slightly higher than in some small towns, but the state is diverse academically and culturally.

Average monthly expenses for Indian students:

• Housing: $500-$1,200 (shared apartments or dorms)
• Food: $200-$400 (depending on cooking habits)
• Transportation: $50-$150 (public transportation or car ownership)
• Books and supplies: $100-$200 per semester
• Personal expenses: $100-$200 (entertainment, phone, etc.)

Housing Costs in Illinois

Shelter is one of the largest costs when comparing the top expenses in Illinois. The price is very flexible and depends on the availability of the property, extra services and its location.

1. Rent Prices in Illinois

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Chicago: $1,500 - $2,200 per month
• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment outside of Chicago: $800 - $1,200 per month
• Studio apartments: Generally $200-$400 less than one-bedroom apartments

2. Student Accommodation Options

• On-campus dormitories: Around $400 – $800 monthly covered with meals in some cases
• Off-campus apartments: $800 – $1,500 per month an average of finding an apartment to share with other people.
• Shared houses: Can be cheaper, rents average $400 and above per month per person

Food Expenses in Illinois

The cost of feeding is another important factor in the cost of living in Illinois. The amount that you spend on food depends on your ability or willingness to eat home-cooked meals, more so your ability or willingness to eat meals outside.

1. Grocery Costs

• Average grocery cost: Slightly above $300 to slightly above $400 per individual.
• Bulk buying savings: Buying in large quantities saves 10-20% of costs.
• Farmers' market benefits: Generally, farmers’ markets produce costs about 15-30% less than their counterparts in supermarkets.

2. Eating Out

• Fast food meal: Affordable meal representing $8 to $12 per head.
• Casual dining: It costs from $15-$30 per person.
• Upscale dining: Including restaurants average cost of $35 or more per person.

Transportation Costs in Illinois

Transportation costs are a significant factor in the overall cost of living in Illinois. The mode of transportation you choose will impact your expenses.

1. Public Transportation

• Chicago, for example, has an extensive network of public transport, and so does other cities in Illinois. This can sometimes be cheaper than commissioning a survey or conducting focus sales teams.
• Average monthly public transportation pass: $80-$120
• Single-trip fare: $2-$3

2. Car Ownership

• The convenience of having a car comes with visible costs.
• Average monthly car payment: This is likely to range from $300 to $500 depending on the car under consideration by any individual.
• Car insurance: There are options from $100-$200 monthly, depending on the coverage, the driver’s age, and the place of living.
• Average gas cost: $3-$4 per gallon (fluctuates)
• Maintenance and repairs: Depicted to cost between $300 and $500 for each year.

Utility Costs in Illinois

Utilities, such as electricity, gas, water, internet, and phone services, contribute to the overall cost of living in Illinois. The cost of utilities can vary depending on the size of your living space and your consumption habits.

1. Electricity, Gas, and Water

• Average monthly cost: $150-$250 (varies based on usage and location)

2. Internet and Phone

• Basic internet plan: $50-$70 per month
• Phone service: Can range from $25 to $50 or more depending on features and provider
• Bundled packages: Often offer discounts when combining internet and phone services

Tips for saving on utilities:

• Conserve energy by using energy-efficient appliances and adjusting thermostats.
• Fix leaks promptly to reduce water consumption.
• Explore options for renewable energy.
• Compare internet and phone plans from different providers.

Healthcare Costs in Illinois

Healthcare costs are an important consideration when assessing the cost of living in Illinois. Having health insurance is crucial to protect yourself from unexpected medical expenses.

1. Health Insurance

The cost of health insurance in Illinois varies widely based on factors such as age, location, coverage level, and whether you purchase individual or group coverage.

• Individual health insurance: $200-$500 per month on average
• Employer-sponsored health insurance: Costs vary based on the employer's plan, but employees typically contribute a portion of the premium.

2. Medical Expenses

Even with health insurance, you'll likely incur out-of-pocket costs.

• Deductibles: The real money can be defined as the amount that explicitly has to be covered by a client before insurance intervenes (the deductibles vary from $1,000 to several thousand dollars per year).
• Co-pays: Most common insurance payments that go in the form of fixed charges for doctors’ visits, prescriptions and other services.
• Coinsurance: The amount of costs that is reimbursed with insurance after the deductible is full
• Prescription medications: It depends on the specific drug, and whether it’s available under insurance.

Entertainment and Leisure Costs in Illinois

• Movie tickets: Cost is between $10-$15 per person on average
• Concerts and theatre performances: Ticket prices may vary from $20 to others in the hundreds based on artists’ preference or show type.
• Museums and art galleries: Admission fees are normally between five dollars, and up to twenty dollars.
• Sporting events: Ticket prices depend on Sport, Team and the location of the ticket expected for sale.
• Dining out: Prices are from ten dollars for a fast food meal to a hundred dollars and more for a gourmet meal.

Tips for saving on entertainment:

• Take advantage of free or low-cost events like outdoor concerts, festivals, and community activities.
• Consider purchasing discounted tickets or memberships.
• Look for student or senior discounts.
• Explore options for streaming movies and TV shows instead of going to the theatre.

Cost of Living in Table 

Students

Housing

Food

Transportation

Utilities

Healthcare

Entertainment & Leisure

Tips for Reducing Living Costs in Illinois

To make the most of your budget in Illinois, consider the following tips:

• Choose your location wisely: It is important to check the prices and possible costs of living in various regions of Illinois before concluding.
• Opt for affordable housing: Try to rent a room that has been shared with other people, student accommodation or an area that has cheap rent.
• Cook at home: Cook food at home to avoid eating in restaurants and spending so much money.
• Utilize public transportation: Minimizing transportation expenses through the utilisation of public transport means as much as possible.
• Be mindful of utility consumption: Save on your bills by using less energy and water in your home.
• Take advantage of free or low-cost activities: Find out as many fun activities that you can do without spending a dime.

Conclusion

Illinois is a perfect place to live because this state combines the facilities of the large megalopolis and the spirit of the Midwestern States. Admittedly the cost of living can sometimes be quite high but then, with proper management, this would not unduly affect your lifestyle and you would then be free to explore the beauty that this state has to offer. The average costs associated with shelter, food, transport and other requirements will help you to make rationed decisions on how you lead your life. Please note that this information concerns general situations, so it is pertinent to consider all this information if it can suit your case. If you take a little time to review and plan, there is no reason you cannot enjoy life in Illinois while saving money.