Cost of Living in Palestine, IL

With a cost of living index of 63, Palestine, IL is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 37% cheaper than the national average and 17% below the Illinois state average of 80. Palestine is a small community of 1,396 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Palestine's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $755 (43% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $75,800 (75% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.3x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Palestine is $60,000, which is 20% 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 Palestine. The area sees an average annual temperature of 55.7°F, with summers averaging 76°F and winters around 34°F. Annual rainfall totals 41.7 inches spread over roughly 116 days.

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.