Ottawa, IL

Very Low · 60

Illinois · Population 18,714 · Updated March 2026

$922
Median Rent / Month
$73,011
Median Income
$144,500
Median Home Value
$1,042
Owner Costs / Month

Affordability

How far your income goes in Ottawa

15.2%
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

$11,064
Annual Rent
$3,614
State Income Tax
$2,991
Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Ottawa is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 60 (where 100 equals the national median), Ottawa residents can expect to pay median rent of $922/month while earning a median household income of $73,011/year.

The median home value in Ottawa, IL is $144,500, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,042 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 15.2% 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 Ottawa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Ottawa

What is the cost of living in Ottawa, IL?
The cost of living index in Ottawa, IL is 60 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $922, median household income is $73,011/year, and the median home value is $144,500.
Is Ottawa, IL affordable?
Yes, Ottawa is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 60. The rent-to-income ratio is 15.2%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.
What is the average rent in Ottawa, IL?
The median gross rent in Ottawa, IL is $922 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $11,064.
What is the median household income in Ottawa?
The median household income in Ottawa, IL is $73,011 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%.