Cost of Living in DuPage County, Illinois
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How DuPage County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in DuPage County, Illinois
DuPage's housing costs reflect affluent demand
DuPage County's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio exceeds national comfort levels, yet the county's exceptional $110,502 median household income—48% above the U.S. median—enables residents to absorb $1,628 monthly rent and maintain affluent lifestyles. This is high-cost housing for high-income households.
DuPage is Illinois's most expensive market
DuPage's $1,628 median rent dwarfs Illinois's $837 state average by nearly 95%, and the 17.7% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the state average of 14.7%. The county's wealth cushions affordability stress, but costs remain objectively steep even by Illinois standards.
Dramatically exceeds all peer counties
DuPage's $1,628 rent is more than double the $761-857 range across Crawford, Cumberland, and De Witt counties, reflecting suburban Chicago proximity and premium positioning. Even DeKalb, the region's other affordability outlier, rents at just $1,041—$587 below DuPage's median.
Highest-cost housing across all income tiers
DuPage renters spend $1,628 monthly while homeowners invest $1,901 on properties averaging $374,100—both the highest in this county group. The $110,502 median income justifies these costs relative to other residents, but absolute expenditures remain substantial.
DuPage suits affluent metro commuters
DuPage's cost structure targets high-income professionals seeking suburban Chicago access and excellent schools, not budget-conscious relocators. Those priced out of DuPage should compare to nearby DeKalb ($1,041) or rural alternatives like Crawford ($761) to understand available savings options.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in DuPage County
Rent Burden
17.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,578
per month
Owner Cost Burden
20.6%
of gross income
The median home in DuPage County may be a stretch
Median home value is $374,100. Estimated monthly cost: $2,987 vs. your max of $2,578.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.