A+
8%
Overall NAT. AVG.
3%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
27%
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 Moline Illinois National
Cost of living9298100
Groceries97100100
Health care101100100
Housing7395100
Transportation104101100
Utilities9999100
Lifestyle & Entertainment98100100
Household Items101100100
Education & Childcare102100100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Moline, IL

Understanding the cost of living in Moline can help future residents assess whether their current financial situation aligns with the expenses they will encounter. It enables them to plan for potential changes in their budget and lifestyle. The Moline cost of living index is 92, which is 8% lower than the national average. The cost of living index is calculated by taking into account multiple categories, which encompass both the cost of everyday expenditures and larger expenses as well.

The cost of living in Moline aligns closely with the national average when compared to other cities across the nation. Everyday essentials such as groceries, household expenses, health care and utility bills are priced at a level consistent with the average in similar urban areas. Moline residents can anticipate that their daily expenses won't be significantly higher than those in an average city, ensuring that the cost of living remains manageable.

Is Moline Affordable?

Is Moline affordable? It's a key consideration when pondering a move, as affordability often shapes your choices. The cost of living index (we discussed it earlier), coupled with housing costs and income levels, serves as the cornerstone for determining a location's affordability. Take Moline, for instance, where the median home price falls 30.3% lower than the national average, and monthly rent rates are 19.7% lower than usual. Additionally, median income levels contribute to the equation, with Moline flaunting a median household income of $85,094, 4.6% higher than the national norm.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Moline?

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 Moline, the utilities index registers at 1.5% lower than the national average.

Subsidies: Some cities and states may extend government subsidies or aid programs aimed at reducing the cost of living for their residents. These initiatives encompass diverse forms of support, including 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 farm subsidies. Regions with limited subsidy provisions may witness an increase in their overall cost of living.

Groceries: Grocery costs have continued to increase significantly over the last 2-3 years. In some markets the cost of food has gone up by more than 20% in that period. While other markets have managed to see only a moderate uptick. These food costs can have a major impact on the cost of living in any area. In Moline, the groceries index is 2.6% lower than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living estimates displayed for Moline 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 Moline is 6% lower than the Illinois average
  • The cost of living in Moline is 8% lower than the national average
  • Moline housing is 27% lower 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 Moline

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Compare Moline, 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$108,384$9,032$2,529$3,252
      Renters$51,350$4,279$1,198$1,541
      The percentage of monthly income spent on housing related expenses can help predict the affordability of housing in Moline, IL, as well as what the overall cost of living might be. Generally, a good rule to follow is that the debt-to-income (DTI) level you want to maintain is 28 percent or less of your income on your rent or mortgage payments and not more than 36 percent of income on all expenses and debts. In Moline, homeowners have a median income of $108,384. Using that number, a maximum of $2,529 per month should be allocated to housing expenses. For those who are renting instead of owning, the median income is $51,350, which means there is a maximum of $1,198 to be spent on the costs of renting a home or apartment.

      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.
      Rock Island Arsenal, IL3661000.2%
      Oak Grove, IL4457821.6%
      Panorama Park, IA2178614.2%
      Carbon Cliff, IL1,9988911.0%
      Rock Island, IL38,6408910.9%
      Moline, IL42,715928.0%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Puyallup, WA42,71712928.6%
      Woonsocket, RI42,7181054.7%
      Langford, BC42,691n/a 
      Catonsville, MD42,74212423.8%
      Grove City, OH42,7551011.1%
      Moline, IL42,715928.0%
      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.