B+
6%
Overall NAT. AVG.
1%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
20%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Berwyn Illinois National
Cost of living10698100
Groceries101100100
Health care98100100
Housing12095100
Transportation103101100
Utilities10099100
Lifestyle & Entertainment100100100
Household Items102100100
Education & Childcare100100100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Berwyn, IL

The cost of living in Berwyn affects the quality of life one can afford in this new location. It allows people to assess whether they can maintain their preferred lifestyle, including housing, leisure activities and dining options. Your total monthly expenditures can varry depending on the area, as well as many other factors. The cost of living in Berwyn is 106, which is 6% higher than the national average. Knowledge of the cost of living can help individuals make informed decisions about retirement savings, investments, and financial goals.

The cost of living in Berwyn is about average when compared to all other cities across the nation. You can expect that everyday items like food, household expenses and utility bills will be no more expensive than any other average city. Residents can anticipate living expenses that remain in line with the national average, ensuring a manageable financial burden, making it an attractive choice for those seeking affordability without the constraints of higher everyday expenditures.

What Do Locals Say About the Cost of Living in Berwyn?

When it comes to knowing a city, its residents are the experts. We conducted a survey with 6 locals to understand their opinions on the cost of living in Berwyn. The results indicated that 17% found it reasonably priced with decreasing prices of goods and services, while 83% viewed it as quite expensive, with increasing prices.

Is Berwyn Affordable?

Is Berwyn an affordable place to live? It's a good question and one that you might want to ask when considering any new city, as affordability can play a huge role in the decision making process. The cost of living index (which we covered above), as well as housing costs and income levels play a vital role in determining the affordability of an area. The median home price in Berwyn is 25.8% higher than the national average, while the average monthly rent prices are 6% higher than average. The affordability of any location can also be influenced by median income levels. Berwyn has a median household income of $91,432, which is 12.4% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Berwyn?

Taxes: Cities that impose higher taxes, including sales and income taxes, can contribute to an escalated cost of living. The added expense of taxes on everyday goods like clothing and food naturally results in higher overall costs. Similarly, a higher income tax rate can further elevate the cost of living. In Berwyn, the general sales tax rate starts at 6.25%, and income tax rates begin at 4.95%.

Utilities: Similar to the prices of any goods or services, utility expenses can fluctuate widely, contingent on variables such as climate, available energy sources, geographical location and state regulations. Costs associated with electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can differ in magnitude, depending on the specific city or state. In Berwyn, the utilities index registers at 0.2% higher than the national average.

Urbanization: Larger, urban hubs brimming with ample amenities and robust employment opportunities often showcase a heightened cost of living. This surge is primarily attributed to the amplified demand for services and increased residential migration, culminating in elevated home prices and elevated rental rates. Conversely, less densely populated rural locales or regions characterized by reduced demand tend to offer a more limited array of amenities and undergo slower job market growth, ultimately yielding a more affordable cost of living.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living data for Berwyn shown above is based on a U.S. average baseline score of 100, making it easier to compare how far your dollar may go from one city to another. Housing uses U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all remaining values are AI-assisted estimates informed by regional pricing, climate, transportation dynamics, and local economic factors. These scores are best used for directional comparisons between cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Berwyn is 8% higher than the Illinois average
  • The cost of living in Berwyn is 6% higher than the national average
  • Berwyn housing is 20% higher than the national average
  • Illinois general sales tax is 22% higher than the national average
  • Illinois state income tax is 91% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Berwyn

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Compare Berwyn, IL Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$122,342$10,195$2,854$3,671
      Renters$58,602$4,884$1,367$1,758
      The percent of monthly income spent on housing can be a good indicator of the affordability of housing in Berwyn, IL, as well as the overall cost of living. As a general rule of thumb, the debt-to-income ratio (DTI) for homeowners or renters should be not more than 28 percent of gross income to be spent on housing related costs and not more than 36 percent of income on all expenses, including debts. The median income for Berwyn homeowners, is $122,342. This would allow for a maximum of $2,854 per month to be spent on housing costs. For renters, the median monthly income is $58,602 which would result in a maximum of $1,367 to be spent on rental costs.

      Illinois Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Illinois 6.25% 10.25%

      Illinois Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Illinois 4.95% 4.95%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Hodgkins, IL1,8178316.9%
      Dixmoor, IL3,6638712.6%
      Hometown, IL4,3508911.2%
      Robbins, IL5,2418910.5%
      Riverdale, IL12,8788910.8%
      Berwyn, IL56,6421066.5%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Chicopee, MA56,65811111.4%
      Cathedral City, CA56,62512828.5%
      Highland, CA56,60613131.3%
      Burlington, NC56,679927.5%
      Hacienda Heights, CA56,60317271.7%
      Berwyn, IL56,6421066.5%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.