DeKalb, IL

Very Low · 71

Illinois · Population 40,464 · Updated March 2026

$1,030
Median Rent / Month
$46,564
Median Income
$202,900
Median Home Value
$1,115
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in DeKalb

26.5%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Moderate
Rent takes 25-35% of median income — moderate affordability.

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

$12,360
Annual Rent
$2,305
State Income Tax
$4,200
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

DeKalb is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 71 (where 100 equals the national median), DeKalb residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,030/month while earning a median household income of $46,564/year.

The median home value in DeKalb, IL is $202,900, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,115 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. With a rent-to-income ratio of 26.5%, DeKalb falls within the generally affordable range, though it's approaching the 30% burden threshold.

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 DeKalb.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in DeKalb

What is the cost of living in DeKalb, IL?
The cost of living index in DeKalb, IL is 71 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,030, median household income is $46,564/year, and the median home value is $202,900.
Is DeKalb, IL affordable?
Yes, DeKalb is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 71. The rent-to-income ratio is 26.5%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in DeKalb, IL?
The median gross rent in DeKalb, IL is $1,030 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $12,360.
What is the median household income in DeKalb?
The median household income in DeKalb, IL is $46,564 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%.