Cost of Living in Benson, IL

With a cost of living index of 70, Benson, IL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 30% cheaper than the national average and 9% below the Illinois state average of 80. Benson is a small community of 482 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Benson's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $975 (26% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $118,200 (61% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.6x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Benson is $74,886, which is 0% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 16% 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 Peoria, 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.