East Chicago, IN

Very Low · 47

Indiana · Population 26,158 · Updated March 2026

$820
Median Rent / Month
$41,071
Median Income
$92,400
Median Home Value
$751
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in East Chicago

24.0%
Rent-to-Income Ratio
Affordable
Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in Indiana

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

3.05%
Income Tax (Top Rate)
7.0%
Sales Tax
0.83%
Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$9,840
Annual Rent
$1,253
State Income Tax
$767
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

East Chicago is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 47 (where 100 equals the national median), East Chicago residents can expect to pay median rent of $820/month while earning a median household income of $41,071/year.

The median home value in East Chicago, IN is $92,400, with typical monthly owner costs around $751 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 24.0% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

Indiana has a moderate income tax rate of 3.05%. Combined with a 7.0% sales tax rate and 0.83% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in East Chicago.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in East Chicago

What is the cost of living in East Chicago, IN?
The cost of living index in East Chicago, IN is 47 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $820, median household income is $41,071/year, and the median home value is $92,400.
Is East Chicago, IN affordable?
Yes, East Chicago is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 47. The rent-to-income ratio is 24.0%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in East Chicago, IN?
The median gross rent in East Chicago, IN is $820 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $9,840.
What is the median household income in East Chicago?
The median household income in East Chicago, IN is $41,071 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.
What are the taxes like in Indiana?
Indiana has a top income tax rate of 3.05%, a sales tax of 7.0%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.83%.