Charleston, IL

Very Low · 52

Illinois · Population 17,212 · Updated March 2026

$819
Median Rent / Month
$49,057
Median Income
$133,700
Median Home Value
$798
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Charleston

20.0%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Illinois

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

4.95%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
6.25%
Sales Tax
2.07%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$9,828
Annual Rent
$2,428
State Income Tax
$2,768
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Charleston is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 52 (where 100 equals the national median), Charleston residents can expect to pay median rent of $819/month while earning a median household income of $49,057/year.

The median home value in Charleston, IL is $133,700, with typical monthly owner costs around $798 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 20.0% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Illinois has a moderate income tax rate of 4.95%. Combined with a 6.25% sales tax rate and 2.07% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Charleston.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Charleston

What is the cost of living in Charleston, IL?
The cost of living index in Charleston, IL is 52 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $819, median household income is $49,057/year, and the median home value is $133,700.
Is Charleston, IL affordable?
Yes, Charleston is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 52. The rent-to-income ratio is 20.0%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Charleston, IL?
The median gross rent in Charleston, IL is $819 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $9,828.
What is the median household income in Charleston?
The median household income in Charleston, IL is $49,057 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Illinois?
Illinois has a top income tax rate of 4.95%, a sales tax of 6.25%, and an effective property tax rate of 2.07%.