Cost of Living in Athens, IL

With a cost of living index of 72, Athens, IL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 28% cheaper than the national average and 7% below the Illinois state average of 80. Athens is a small community of 2,146 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Athens's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $893 (32% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $164,200 (46% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.9x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Athens is $85,000, which is 13% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 13% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Everyday prices in the Springfield, IL (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.