A+
5%
Overall NAT. AVG.
1%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
15%
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 Urbana Illinois National
Cost of living9598100
Groceries99100100
Health care98100100
Housing8595100
Transportation99101100
Utilities9799100
Lifestyle & Entertainment100100100
Household Items102100100
Education & Childcare101100100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Urbana, IL

Knowing the cost of living in Urbana allows individuals to create a realistic budget. This helps them understand how their income will cover expenses and whether they need to make financial adjustments. The cost of living in any region can fluctuate due to various factors. To assess the cost of living consistently across different areas, a national average of 100 serves as the basis for the cost of living index. The cost of living in Urbana stands at 95, marking it 5% lower than the national average.

The cost of living in Urbana 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.

Is Urbana Affordable?

Is Urbana 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 Urbana, the median home price is 15.2% lower than the national average and monthly rent prices are 13% lower than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Urbana boasting a median household income of $53,590, 34.1% lower than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Urbana?

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.

Healthcare: Healthcare expenses and insurance premiums can vary significantly depending on the specific city or state. Factors such as accessibility to healthcare facilities, out-of-pocket expenses for doctor's visits, dental care expenses, prescription costs and specialized medical care fees can all influence the overall cost of living. In Urbana, healthcare costs are 1.8% lower than the national average.

Utilities: Like everything else, utilities costs can range significantly depending on factors like climate, energy sources available, location and even state regulations. Things like electricity, water, heating and waste disposal costs can be higher or lower, depending on the city or state. The utilities index in Urbana comes in at 2.6% lower than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The Urbana cost of living data displayed above uses a U.S. average baseline of 100 to provide a practical way to compare living expenses across cities. Housing estimates incorporate U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are generated using AI-assisted models based on everyday expense expectations, regional pricing trends, climate, transportation patterns, and local economic conditions. These values are designed for directional city-to-city comparisons.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Urbana is 3% lower than the Illinois average
  • The cost of living in Urbana is 5% lower than the national average
  • Urbana housing is 15% 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 Urbana

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Compare Urbana, 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$125,322$10,444$2,924$3,760
      Renters$34,500$2,875$805$1,035
      To approximate the cost of living and the housing affordability in Urbana, IL, we can look at the percentage of income that is available to be spent on monthly housing, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). To stay on the safe side, a consumer should not spend more than 28% of his or her gross income on housing-related expenses and costs and not more than 36% of income on all expenses and debts. Homeowners in Urbana have a median income of $125,322. Therefore, the amount that a consumer should spend on housing costs should be no more than $2,924 per month to avoid calamity and poverty. The renters in the city have an income of about $34,500, which would make their monthly maximum allowable rental costs $805.

      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.
      Allerton, IL2748514.6%
      Ivesdale, IL2558613.8%
      Penfield, IL2438613.7%
      Thomasboro, IL1,0718713.2%
      Rantoul, IL13,2638712.7%
      Urbana, IL43,747954.8%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Hicksville, NY43,79315454.0%
      North Fort Myers, FL43,810927.5%
      Jefferson City, MO43,647918.6%
      Schertz, TX43,6421076.9%
      Lompoc, CA43,85313131.1%
      Urbana, IL43,747954.8%
      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.