Cost of Living in North Chicago, IL
Population 30,772 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
The North Chicago cost-of-living profile is closer to the US median than most headline-grabbing metros — typical homes around $148,000, rents near $1,392 a month. Unemployment has stayed elevated relative to the national figure — 8.7% as of the most recent ACS release — which shows up in household-income and poverty figures as well.
Geographically, North Chicago is about 30 miles northeast of Elgin, the nearest large metro. Median home values run roughly 41% lower than Elgin's $252,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in North Chicago
The median home value in North Chicago is $147,800 — 52% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,392/month, 6% higher than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $56,815/year is 24% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 8.7%, 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, North Chicago 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
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in North Chicago, IL?
North Chicago has a cost index of 71 (100 = national average). It is 29% below the national average.
What is average rent in North Chicago, IL?
The median gross rent in North Chicago is $1,392 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in North Chicago?
The median home value in North Chicago is $147,800 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in North Chicago?
The median household income in North Chicago is $56,815 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in North Chicago, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in North Chicago is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is North Chicago, IL affordable?
Yes, North Chicago is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 71 — about 29% below the US national average of 100.
North Chicago at a Glance
- Population
- 30,772
- Median Income
- $56,815
- Home Value
- $147,800
- Median Rent
- $1,392/mo
- Unemployment
- 8.7%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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