Cost of Living in McHenry, IL
Population 27,774 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Most of McHenry's cost indicators track within a reasonable band of national figures, with median household incomes near $86,865 — a more representative starting point for relocation math than the headline-expensive or headline-cheap cities on either tail.
McHenry sits roughly 20 miles north of Elgin — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Housing prices track closely with Elgin's $252,000 median.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in McHenry
The median home value in McHenry is $244,900 — 20% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,508/month, 15% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $86,865/year is 16% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 3.5%, 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, McHenry has a cost of living index of 94 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 6% 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 McHenry, IL?
McHenry has a cost index of 94 (100 = national average). It is 6% below the national average.
What is average rent in McHenry, IL?
The median gross rent in McHenry is $1,508 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in McHenry?
The median home value in McHenry is $244,900 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in McHenry?
The median household income in McHenry is $86,865 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in McHenry, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in McHenry is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is McHenry, IL affordable?
McHenry is near the national average in terms of cost of living, with an index of 94 (100 = US average).
McHenry at a Glance
- Population
- 27,774
- Median Income
- $86,865
- Home Value
- $244,900
- Median Rent
- $1,508/mo
- Unemployment
- 3.5%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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