Cost of Living in Galesburg, IL
Population 29,653 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
At $45,213, median household incomes in Galesburg land roughly 39% below the US median, a gap that tends to persist across local labor-market indicators. A poverty rate near 21% adds context to the income figures — well above the US average, and worth factoring into any comparison with cities on the coasts or in the Rockies.
Geographically, Galesburg is about 40 miles west of Peoria, the nearest large metro. Median home values run roughly 40% lower than Peoria's $150,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Galesburg
The median home value in Galesburg is $89,800 — 71% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $719/month, 45% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $45,213/year is 39% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.7%, below 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, Galesburg has a cost of living index of 40 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 60% 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 Galesburg, IL?
Galesburg has a cost index of 40 (100 = national average). It is 60% below the national average.
What is average rent in Galesburg, IL?
The median gross rent in Galesburg is $719 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Galesburg?
The median home value in Galesburg is $89,800 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Galesburg?
The median household income in Galesburg is $45,213 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Galesburg, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Galesburg is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Galesburg, IL affordable?
Yes, Galesburg is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 40 — about 60% below the US national average of 100.
Galesburg at a Glance
- Population
- 29,653
- Median Income
- $45,213
- Home Value
- $89,800
- Median Rent
- $719/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.7%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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