Cost of Living in Illinois

Cost of Living Guide in Illinois

Illinois, located in the Midwest region of the United States, offers a diverse range of living costs depending on the region within the state. Understanding the various expenses involved in living in Illinois can help you plan your budget effectively. In this guide, we will break down the costs of housing, data/SIM, food, transport, coworking rates, lifestyle expenses, healthcare, regional differences, and budget tiers in Illinois.

Housing

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Chicago

In Chicago, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre is around $1,800 to $2,200. Areas like Downtown and Lincoln Park tend to have higher rental prices compared to suburbs like Evanston or Oak Park.

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Suburbs

Moving to the suburbs outside of Chicago can offer more affordable housing options. In areas like Aurora, Naperville, or Schaumburg, you can find one-bedroom apartments for around $1,000 to $1,500 per month.

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Southern Illinois

Cities in Southern Illinois, such as Carbondale or Marion, offer even more affordable housing options with one-bedroom rents ranging from $600 to $900 per month.

Data/SIM Costs

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Mobile Plans

The average cost of a mobile phone plan with data in Illinois is around $50 to $80 per month, depending on the data allowance and provider.

Food

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Groceries

The cost of groceries in Illinois is relatively affordable. A basic grocery shopping for a week for one person can cost around $50 to $70, including essentials like fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products.

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Dining Out

Dining out in Illinois can vary in cost. A meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $15 to $25 per person, while a three-course meal for two at a nice restaurant can range from $50 to $100.

Transport

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Public Transport

Cities like Chicago have an extensive public transport system, including buses and trains. A monthly unlimited pass for public transport in Chicago costs around $100 to $130.

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Car Ownership

If you own a car in Illinois, you will need to consider costs like fuel, insurance, maintenance, and parking. The average price of petrol in Illinois is around $2.80 to $3.20 per gallon.

Coworking Rates

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Chicago

Coworking spaces in Chicago offer various membership plans starting from around $150 to $300 per month for a hot desk, while dedicated desks can cost between $300 to $500 per month.

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Suburbs

Coworking spaces in suburban areas like Naperville or Evanston may have lower rates, ranging from $100 to $250 per month for a hot desk.

Lifestyle Expenses

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Entertainment

Going to the movies in Illinois can cost around $10 to $15 per ticket. Other entertainment options like museums, concerts, and sports events can range from $20 to $100 depending on the venue.

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Fitness

Gym memberships in Illinois vary, with average costs ranging from $20 to $50 per month for basic facilities, while premium gyms can charge $50 to $100 per month.

Healthcare

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Health Insurance

The cost of health insurance in Illinois can vary based on factors like age, coverage, and provider. On average, a basic health insurance plan for an individual can cost around $300 to $500 per month.

Regional Differences

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Northern Illinois

Cities like Chicago and its suburbs have a higher cost of living compared to central and southern Illinois due to factors like higher rents, transportation costs, and lifestyle expenses.

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Central Illinois

Cities like Springfield or Champaign offer a more moderate cost of living with affordable housing and lower overall expenses.

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Southern Illinois

Areas like Carbondale or Marion have the lowest cost of living in the state, making them attractive for budget-conscious individuals or families.

Budget Tiers

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High Budget

Individuals or families with a high budget can comfortably live in areas like Chicago or its affluent suburbs, enjoying premium housing, dining, and lifestyle options.

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Moderate Budget

Those with a moderate budget can find suitable housing and amenities in cities like Naperville, Aurora, or Springfield, balancing cost and quality of life.

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Low Budget

Budget-conscious individuals can opt for more affordable options in cities like Carbondale, saving on housing and living costs while still enjoying basic amenities.

In conclusion, living in Illinois offers a range of costs depending on the region you choose. By understanding the breakdown of expenses like housing, food, transport, and healthcare, you can effectively plan your budget and choose the lifestyle that best suits your financial situation. Consider your priorities and budget tiers to make an informed decision about living costs in Illinois.