Cost of Living in Watseka, IL
Population 4,630 · Illinois · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Watseka's median household income of $42,794 is a meaningful share below the national figure, which shapes most of the downstream economic indicators — from housing affordability to the share of residents living below the poverty line (26% here). At 6.8%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Geographically, Watseka is about 55 miles southeast of Joliet, the nearest large metro. Median home values run roughly 58% lower than Joliet's $249,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Watseka
The median home value in Watseka is $104,400 — 66% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $815/month, 38% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $42,794/year is 43% 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, Watseka has a cost of living index of 45 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 55% less expensive.
Watseka has limited residential data
Detailed housing and income data is limited for this location. Here are the nearest cities with full cost of living data:
🏠 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 Watseka, IL?
Watseka has a cost index of 45 (100 = national average). It is 55% below the national average.
What is average rent in Watseka, IL?
The median gross rent in Watseka is $815 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Watseka?
The median home value in Watseka is $104,400 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Watseka?
The median household income in Watseka is $42,794 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Watseka, IL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Watseka is 8.7%. The Illinois state income tax top rate is 5.0%.
Is Watseka, IL affordable?
Yes, Watseka is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 45 — about 55% below the US national average of 100.
Watseka at a Glance
- Population
- 4,630
- Median Income
- $42,794
- Home Value
- $104,400
- Median Rent
- $815/mo
- Unemployment
- 6.8%
- Sales Tax
- 8.7%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Illinois Rankings
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