Cost of Living in Sterling, IL
Population 14,670 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Sterling sits on the smaller end of the Illinois city distribution. That scale shapes the housing market, the labor pool, and the services available to residents in ways the data below makes visible.
Geographically, Sterling is about 45 miles southwest of Rockford, the nearest large metro. Median home values run roughly 11% lower than Rockford's $121,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Sterling
The median home value in Sterling is $107,800 — 65% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $780/month, 41% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $52,647/year is 29% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 4.8%, 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, Sterling has a cost of living index of 45 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 55% 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 Sterling, IL?
Sterling has a cost index of 45 (100 = national average). It is 55% below the national average.
What is average rent in Sterling, IL?
The median gross rent in Sterling is $780 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Sterling?
The median home value in Sterling is $107,800 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Sterling?
The median household income in Sterling is $52,647 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Sterling, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Sterling is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Sterling, IL affordable?
Yes, Sterling is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 45 — about 55% below the US national average of 100.
Sterling at a Glance
- Population
- 14,670
- Median Income
- $52,647
- Home Value
- $107,800
- Median Rent
- $780/mo
- Unemployment
- 4.8%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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