Cost of Living in DeKalb, IL
Population 40,464 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
At $46,564, median household incomes in DeKalb land roughly 38% below the US median, a gap that tends to persist across local labor-market indicators. Around 26% of residents live below the federal poverty line, a rate that tends to correlate with the income and housing figures above.
Located 25 miles west of Elgin, DeKalb falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 20% lower than Elgin's $252,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in DeKalb
The median home value in DeKalb is $202,900 — 33% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,030/month, 22% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $46,564/year is 38% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 10.6%, 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, DeKalb has a cost of living index of 71 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 29% 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
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in DeKalb, IL?
DeKalb has a cost index of 71 (100 = national average). It is 29% below the national average.
What is average rent in DeKalb, IL?
The median gross rent in DeKalb is $1,030 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in DeKalb?
The median home value in DeKalb is $202,900 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in DeKalb?
The median household income in DeKalb is $46,564 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in DeKalb, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in DeKalb is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is DeKalb, IL affordable?
Yes, DeKalb is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 71 — about 29% below the US national average of 100.
DeKalb at a Glance
- Population
- 40,464
- Median Income
- $46,564
- Home Value
- $202,900
- Median Rent
- $1,030/mo
- Unemployment
- 10.6%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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