🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Illinois - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: February 2026
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$85,810 (2024)
Inflation Rate3.0% (2024)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend10.9% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)5.4% (2021)
Source: World Bank Open Data
The cost of living in Illinois can vary depending on the location, lifestyle, and personal preferences, but overall, it tends to be moderately priced, with daily budgets ranging from $60-150 USD for backpackers, $100-250 USD for mid-range travelers, and $200-400 USD for comfort seekers.
Quick Facts
Cost LevelModerate
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$60-150 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$100-250 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$200-400 USD
CurrencyUSD
Tipping Customexpected (15-20%)
How Expensive Is Illinois?
Illinois is a state located in the Midwestern United States, and its cost of living is generally in line with the national average. Compared to other states, Illinois is more expensive than some of its neighboring states, such as Indiana and Missouri, but less expensive than states like New York and California. The cost of living in Illinois can vary depending on the location, with cities like Chicago tend to be more expensive than smaller towns and rural areas. Overall, Illinois offers a good balance of affordability and quality of life, making it an attractive destination for tourists and residents alike.
The state's economy is diverse, with major industries in manufacturing, finance, and technology, which contributes to its moderate cost of living. The cost of housing, food, and transportation in Illinois is relatively affordable, especially when compared to coastal states. However, the cost of living in Chicago, the state's largest city, is higher than in other parts of the state. Visitors and residents can expect to pay more for accommodations, food, and entertainment in Chicago, but the city's vibrant cultural scene, world-class museums, and stunning architecture make it a worthwhile destination.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$30-60
basic amenities, shared rooms
Mid-Range Hotel
$80-150
comfortable rooms, standard amenities
Luxury/Resort
$200-400
high-end amenities, upscale services
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$1,000-2,500
city center vs outside, 1-3 bedrooms
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$8-12
Casual Restaurant
$15-25
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$30-50
Fine Dining
$50-100
Beer (local)
$5-8
Coffee
$2-5
Water (1.5L bottle)
$2-3
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$2-3
Taxi (per km)
$2-5
Domestic flight
$100-300
Fuel (per liter)
$0.70-1.00
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
800-1,200
1,200-2,000
2,000-3,500
Food
300-500
500-800
800-1,200
Transport
100-200
200-300
300-500
Utilities
100-200
200-300
300-500
Entertainment
200-300
300-500
500-800
Total
1,500-2,500
2,500-4,500
4,500-7,500
Money-Saving Tips
Consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) to avoid peak tourist prices.
Take advantage of free attractions and events in Chicago, such as Millennium Park and the Lincoln Park Zoo.
Use public transportation, such as the 'L' train, to get around the city instead of taxis or ride-sharing services.
Eat at local eateries and food trucks, which offer affordable and delicious options.
Explore the state's many parks and outdoor spaces, which offer free or low-cost recreational activities.
Look for discounts and promotions on accommodations, especially during the off-season, to save on lodging costs.