Cost of Living in Kankakee, IL
Population 24,384 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in Kankakee run well below national norms — a median of $45,119 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $106,000). Unemployment has stayed elevated relative to the national figure — 7.3% as of the most recent ACS release — which shows up in household-income and poverty figures as well.
Located 30 miles southeast of Joliet, Kankakee falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 58% lower than Joliet's $249,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Kankakee
The median home value in Kankakee is $105,500 — 65% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $986/month, 25% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $45,119/year is 40% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 7.3%, 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, Kankakee has a cost of living index of 51 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 49% 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 Kankakee, IL?
Kankakee has a cost index of 51 (100 = national average). It is 49% below the national average.
What is average rent in Kankakee, IL?
The median gross rent in Kankakee is $986 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Kankakee?
The median home value in Kankakee is $105,500 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Kankakee?
The median household income in Kankakee is $45,119 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Kankakee, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Kankakee is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Kankakee, IL affordable?
Yes, Kankakee is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 51 — about 49% below the US national average of 100.
Kankakee at a Glance
- Population
- 24,384
- Median Income
- $45,119
- Home Value
- $105,500
- Median Rent
- $986/mo
- Unemployment
- 7.3%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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