Cost of Living in Lena, IL

With a cost of living index of 66, Lena, IL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 34% cheaper than the national average and 14% below the Illinois state average of 80. Lena is a small community of 2,778 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Lena's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $647 (51% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $154,000 (49% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Lena is $76,076, which is 1% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 10% 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 Lena. 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.

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.