Cost of Living in Galena, IL

With a cost of living index of 73, Galena, IL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 27% cheaper than the national average and 6% below the Illinois state average of 80. Galena is a small community of 2,899 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Galena's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $773 (41% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $199,700 (35% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.6x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Galena is $55,765, which is 26% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 17% 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 Galena. The area sees an average annual temperature of 47.2°F, with summers averaging 70°F and winters around 22°F. Annual rainfall totals 38.2 inches spread over roughly 118 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

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.