Cost of Living in Leaf River, IL

With a cost of living index of 63, Leaf River, IL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 37% cheaper than the national average and 16% below the Illinois state average of 80. Leaf River is a small community of 475 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Leaf River's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $795 (40% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $93,600 (69% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.2x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Leaf River is $75,903, which is 1% 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.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Leaf River. The area sees an average annual temperature of 49.4°F, with summers averaging 72°F and winters around 25°F. Annual rainfall totals 37.2 inches spread over roughly 121 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Everyday prices in the Rockford, 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.