Cost of Living in East Chicago, IN
Population 26,158 · Indiana · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in East Chicago run well below national norms — a median of $41,071 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $92,000). Unemployment has stayed elevated relative to the national figure — 7.9% as of the most recent ACS release — which shows up in household-income and poverty figures as well.
Located 20 miles southeast of Chicago, East Chicago falls within that metro's commuting orbit. Median home values run roughly 71% lower than Chicago's $315,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in East Chicago
The median home value in East Chicago is $92,400 — 70% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $820/month, 38% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $41,071/year is 45% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 7.9%, above the national average of 4.8%. Indiana's top state income tax rate is 3.0% and the combined sales tax is 7.0%. Overall, East Chicago has a cost of living index of 43 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 57% 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
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in East Chicago, IN?
East Chicago has a cost index of 43 (100 = national average). It is 57% below the national average.
What is average rent in East Chicago, IN?
The median gross rent in East Chicago is $820 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in East Chicago?
The median home value in East Chicago is $92,400 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in East Chicago?
The median household income in East Chicago is $41,071 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in East Chicago, IN?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in East Chicago is 7.0%. The Indiana state income tax top rate is 3.0%.
Is East Chicago, IN affordable?
Yes, East Chicago is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 43 — about 57% below the US national average of 100.
East Chicago at a Glance
- Population
- 26,158
- Median Income
- $41,071
- Home Value
- $92,400
- Median Rent
- $820/mo
- Unemployment
- 7.9%
- Sales Tax
- 7.0%
Explore county-level cost of living data
Indiana Rankings
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