F
36%
Overall NAT. AVG.
2%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
118%
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 Lincolnwood Illinois National
Cost of living13698100
Groceries98100100
Health care101100100
Housing21895100
Transportation104101100
Utilities9899100
Lifestyle & Entertainment100100100
Household Items101100100
Education & Childcare103100100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Lincolnwood, IL

Getting a feel for the cost of living in Lincolnwood is essential for anyone planning to relocate, as it empowers them to make informed financial decisions, secure a comfortable lifestyle and maintain financial stability in their new environment. The cost of living in Lincolnwood is 136, which is 36% higher than the national average. Relocating individuals may need to adjust their savings and investment strategies based on the cost of living in the new location. It influences decisions about retirement planning, investments and financial goals.

The cost of living in Lincolnwood is among the highest in the country, making it a very expensive place to live. Only a small fraction of regions boast a cost of living that is at least 20% higher than the national average, and regrettably, Lincolnwood falls into this category, which may not be suitable for those seeking an economically favorable living environment.

Housing costs significantly influence the Lincolnwood cost of living index, typically accounting for a substantial portion of one's post-tax income. Regrettably, within this particular region, expenses related to both residential ownership and renting exceeded those observed in an average city by 117.7%. This entails elements such as housing and rental prices, mortgage interest rates and insurance costs.

Is Lincolnwood Affordable?

Is Lincolnwood affordable? This is a pivotal question, especially when mulling over a move, as affordability carries substantial weight in your decision-making process. Factors such as the cost of living index (discussed earlier), housing expenses and income levels all contribute to a location's affordability. For instance, in Lincolnwood, the median home price is 113.6% higher than the national average and monthly rent prices are 127.2% higher than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Lincolnwood boasting a median household income of $135,871, 67.1% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Lincolnwood?

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 Lincolnwood, the general sales tax rate starts at 6.25%, and income tax rates begin at 4.95%.

Subsidies: Certain regions may provide government subsidies or assistance initiatives designed to alleviate the cost of living burden on their residents. These programs encompass a wide range of support mechanisms, such as Medicare, Medicaid, housing subsidies, low-income home energy assistance programs, school lunch programs, supplemental nutrition assistance programs, student loans, electric vehicle tax credits, affordable care act subsidies and farming subsidies. Areas with fewer subsidy offerings might experience an elevation in their cost of living.

Housing: Elevated demand for housing within coveted locales has the propensity to escalate both property values and rental rates, thereby serving as a primary catalyst for an augmented cost of living. Conversely, areas witnessing diminished housing demand, particularly within less desirable environs, often experience an inversely proportional effect, leading to price reductions and subsequently contributing to a more modest cost of living. In Lincolnwood, the housing index is 117.7% higher than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living estimates displayed for Lincolnwood are modeled using a U.S. average baseline of 100, helping provide a useful comparison of local living expenses. Housing calculations include U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are AI-assisted estimates based on regional cost patterns, climate, transportation, and everyday spending expectations. These values are intended for directional comparisons across cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Lincolnwood is 38% higher than the Illinois average
  • The cost of living in Lincolnwood is 36% higher than the national average
  • Lincolnwood housing is 118% 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 Lincolnwood

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Compare Lincolnwood, 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$144,880$12,073$3,380$4,347
      Renters$101,823$8,485$2,376$3,055
      A good indicator of the general affordability of housing in Lincolnwood, IL, is the percentage of monthly income that should be spent on housing expenses, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Generally speaking, no more than 28 percent of your total gross income should be spent on your housing expenses and not more than 36 percent of your gross income on total expenses, including debts. In Lincolnwood, the median monthly income is $144,880 for those who own their own homes. Under the standard rule, that income level would allow for $3,380 to be budgeted for housing expenses each month, at the most. Renters, on the other hand, earn about $101,823, per the median income in the area. That would allow for renters to spend up to $2,376 on monthly rental expenses.

      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.
      Maywood, IL23,986963.6%
      Broadview, IL7,841990.9%
      Bellwood, IL19,287991.0%
      Cicero, IL84,3201000.3%
      Summit, IL11,4721000.1%
      Lincolnwood, IL12,65513635.7%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Patchogue, NY12,65413131.1%
      Parker, SC12,6548712.8%
      Valencia West, AZ12,6591055.0%
      Saddlebrooke, AZ12,65013232.0%
      Palmer Town, MA12,66211515.0%
      Lincolnwood, IL12,65513635.7%
      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.