Cost of Living in Chicago Heights, IL
Population 26,938 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
The Chicago Heights cost-of-living profile is closer to the US median than most headline-grabbing metros — typical homes around $150,000, rents near $1,035 a month. Unemployment has stayed elevated relative to the national figure — 12.7% as of the most recent ACS release — which shows up in household-income and poverty figures as well.
Located 25 miles south of Chicago, Chicago Heights falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 52% lower than Chicago's $315,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Chicago Heights
The median home value in Chicago Heights is $149,900 — 51% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,035/month, 21% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $57,479/year is 23% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 12.7%, above the national average of 4.8%. Illinois's top state income tax rate is 5.0% and the combined sales tax is 8.7%. Overall, Chicago Heights has a cost of living index of 61 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 39% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Chicago Heights, IL?
Chicago Heights has a cost index of 61 (100 = national average). It is 39% below the national average.
What is average rent in Chicago Heights, IL?
The median gross rent in Chicago Heights is $1,035 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Chicago Heights?
The median home value in Chicago Heights is $149,900 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Chicago Heights?
The median household income in Chicago Heights is $57,479 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Chicago Heights, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Chicago Heights is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Chicago Heights, IL affordable?
Yes, Chicago Heights is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 61 — about 39% below the US national average of 100.
Chicago Heights at a Glance
- Population
- 26,938
- Median Income
- $57,479
- Home Value
- $149,900
- Median Rent
- $1,035/mo
- Unemployment
- 12.7%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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