Cost of Living in Highland Park, IL
Population 30,229 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Highland Park's housing market reflects its status as a high-earning metro: $594,000 for a typical home, 95% above the US median, paired with household incomes around $161,875 that put it in the upper third of the state.
Geographically, Highland Park is about 25 miles north of Chicago, the nearest large metro. Median home values run roughly 89% higher than Chicago's $315,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Highland Park
The median home value in Highland Park is $594,400 — 95% above the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,903/month, 45% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $161,875/year is 117% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 3.3%, 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, Highland Park has a cost of living index of 175 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 75% more 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 Highland Park, IL?
Highland Park has a cost index of 175 (100 = national average). It is 75% above the national average.
What is average rent in Highland Park, IL?
The median gross rent in Highland Park is $1,903 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Highland Park?
The median home value in Highland Park is $594,400 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Highland Park?
The median household income in Highland Park is $161,875 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Highland Park, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Highland Park is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Highland Park, IL affordable?
Highland Park is above average in cost of living, with an index of 175 — about 75% higher than the national average.
Highland Park at a Glance
- Population
- 30,229
- Median Income
- $161,875
- Home Value
- $594,400
- Median Rent
- $1,903/mo
- Unemployment
- 3.3%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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