Cost of Living in Pekin, IL
Population 31,812 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Pekin lands reasonably close to national benchmarks on most cost indicators, with a median home value of $118,000 — 61% below the US figure. That makes it a useful reference point for comparing with more extreme markets in Illinois. At 6.8%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Geographically, Pekin sits roughly 13 miles south of Peoria. Median home values run roughly 21% lower than Peoria's $150,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Pekin
The median home value in Pekin is $118,200 — 61% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $792/month, 40% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $58,355/year is 22% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 6.8%, 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, Pekin has a cost of living index of 47 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 53% 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 Pekin, IL?
Pekin has a cost index of 47 (100 = national average). It is 53% below the national average.
What is average rent in Pekin, IL?
The median gross rent in Pekin is $792 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Pekin?
The median home value in Pekin is $118,200 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Pekin?
The median household income in Pekin is $58,355 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Pekin, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Pekin is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Pekin, IL affordable?
Yes, Pekin is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 47 — about 53% below the US national average of 100.
Pekin at a Glance
- Population
- 31,812
- Median Income
- $58,355
- Home Value
- $118,200
- Median Rent
- $792/mo
- Unemployment
- 6.8%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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