For many middle-class Americans, the Land of Lincoln is proving to be one of the last places in the country where owning a home is still a reality.
The dream of owning a home has felt out of reach for many due to rising home prices and fluctuating mortgage rates.
But even as the cost of living continues to climb, in Illinois, middle-class families can still find an affordable path to homeownership, if they know where to look.
Median Home Prices and Affordability in Illinois
One of the most significant factors making Illinois a more accessible option is its median home price of $289,950. This is considerably lower than what buyers face in many other parts of the country.
According to SmartAsset analysis of 2023 income data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income of an Illinois resident is $80,306.
Assuming that a prospective homebuyer from would secure a 6.67% 30-year fixed mortgage and have 10% available for a down payment, that translates into a mortgage budget of roughly $2,008 per month.
Meaning a middle-class family can afford a home upward of $401,329.33— and that means residents have options.
Best places to live in Illinois on a middle-class salary
One of the strengths of Illinois is its diverse housing landscape. Whether you’re looking at homes in bustling Chicago neighborhoods or in quieter suburban cities like Naperville or Peoria, the state offers something for nearly every kind of buyer.
For example, areas surrounding Rockford and Springfield have long been recognized for offering affordable housing and high quality of life. In fact, both towns landed on the 2025 Best Places to Live list.
Topping that list is Arlington Heights—a vibrant suburb located about 25 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, where the median home price sits at around $465,000. While right on the cusp of affordability, the town boasts top-rated schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and an excellent park district with over 50 parks.
You could also consider Buffalo Grove, which claimed the #2 spot. With a median home price of $474,500, it too would put a middle-class family close to their budget, but its proximity to the Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve makes it a big draw for people who love the outdoors.
And finally, there’s Palatine, a Chicago suburb that combines small-town charm with commuter. convenience. With a median home price of about $375,000, it’s well within budget and offers everything from quality schools to access to vital public transit, including a Metra station,
Another plus for living in the Prairie state is the government-backed programs. State and local initiatives, including tax incentives and down payment assistance, are designed to lower the barrier to home ownership. These financial tools can help turn renters into owners, particularly in communities where home values are expected to grow steadily over time.
