Cost of Living in Eureka, IL

With a cost of living index of 64, Eureka, IL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 36% cheaper than the national average and 15% below the Illinois state average of 80. Eureka is a smaller community of 5,095 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Eureka's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $680 (48% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $154,600 (49% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.8x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Eureka is $55,172, which is 27% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 15% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Eureka. The area sees an average annual temperature of 52.7°F, with summers averaging 75°F and winters around 29°F. Annual rainfall totals 37.6 inches spread over roughly 117 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

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.