The Most Affordable Cities in Illinois (2026)

Ranked by cost index: the average of renting, buying, goods, and services compared to the national average (100). All data from Census ACS 2024 and BEA Regional Price Parities 2023.

1

Chicago

101.5

Rent: $1,486/mo · Homes: $341,200 · Income: $80,613

4.95% flat · Sales tax: 10.25%

2

Naperville

123.7

Rent: $1,913/mo · Homes: $579,200 · Income: $150,360

4.95% flat · Sales tax: 7.75%

Sources: Rent and home prices from Census ACS 2024. Goods and services from BEA Regional Price Parities 2023. Tax rates from Tax Foundation.