Cost of Living in Washington, IL
Population 15,946 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Washington offers a notably favorable income-to-housing ratio for its region. The typical home — $217,000 — costs less than 2.4 times median household income of $91,360, a threshold many coastal markets passed a decade ago. The labor market has been unusually tight, with unemployment around 1.2% — below most comparable cities in the state.
Located 10 miles east of Peoria, Washington falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 45% higher than Peoria's $150,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Washington
The median home value in Washington is $216,700 — 29% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,087/month, 17% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $91,360/year is 22% higher than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 1.2%, 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, Washington has a cost of living index of 76 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 24% 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 Washington, IL?
Washington has a cost index of 76 (100 = national average). It is 24% below the national average.
What is average rent in Washington, IL?
The median gross rent in Washington is $1,087 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Washington?
The median home value in Washington is $216,700 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Washington?
The median household income in Washington is $91,360 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Washington, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Washington is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Washington, IL affordable?
Yes, Washington is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 76 — about 24% below the US national average of 100.
Washington at a Glance
- Population
- 15,946
- Median Income
- $91,360
- Home Value
- $216,700
- Median Rent
- $1,087/mo
- Unemployment
- 1.2%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
Similar Cost Cities
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