Iowa vs Illinois: Rent Comparison 2026
Side-by-side comparison of fair market rents, income, and tenant protections between Iowa and Illinois.
Iowa is 30% cheaper for a 2-bedroom rental than Illinois, saving renters approximately $351/mo ($4,212/year).
| Metric | Iowa | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1BR Rent | $647/mo | $948/mo |
| Average 2BR Rent | $814/mo | $1,165/mo |
| Median Income | $46,260 | $66,429 |
| Renter % | 31.5% | 33.1% |
| Tenant Rights | 4/10 | 7/10 |
Rent Burden Comparison
Iowa
2BR Rent: $814/mo of $46,260/yr income
21.1% of income
Illinois
2BR Rent: $1,165/mo of $66,429/yr income
21.0% of income
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Iowa or Illinois cheaper to rent in?
Iowa has lower average rents. A 2-bedroom averages $814/mo, which is $351 less per month than Illinois (30% cheaper).
Which state has better tenant protections, Iowa or Illinois?
Illinois has stronger tenant rights with a score of 7/10 compared to 4/10.
What is the income difference between Iowa and Illinois?
Iowa median income: $46,260. Illinois median income: $66,429. Difference: $20,169/year.
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