East St. Louis, IL

Very Low · 33

Illinois · Population 18,278 · Updated March 2026

$597
Median Rent / Month
$30,992
Median Income
$52,700
Median Home Value
$592
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in East St. Louis

23.1%
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

$7,164
Annual Rent
$1,534
State Income Tax
$1,091
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

East St. Louis is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 33 (where 100 equals the national median), East St. Louis residents can expect to pay median rent of $597/month while earning a median household income of $30,992/year.

The median home value in East St. Louis, IL is $52,700, with typical monthly owner costs around $592 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 23.1% 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 East St. Louis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in East St. Louis

What is the cost of living in East St. Louis, IL?
The cost of living index in East St. Louis, IL is 33 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $597, median household income is $30,992/year, and the median home value is $52,700.
Is East St. Louis, IL affordable?
Yes, East St. Louis is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 33. The rent-to-income ratio is 23.1%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in East St. Louis, IL?
The median gross rent in East St. Louis, IL is $597 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $7,164.
What is the median household income in East St. Louis?
The median household income in East St. Louis, IL is $30,992 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%.