Washington vs Illinois: Rent Comparison 2026
Side-by-side comparison of fair market rents, income, and tenant protections between Washington and Illinois.
Illinois is 16% cheaper for a 2-bedroom rental than Washington, saving renters approximately $230/mo ($2,760/year).
| Metric | Washington | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1BR Rent | $1,137/mo | $948/mo |
| Average 2BR Rent | $1,395/mo | $1,165/mo |
| Median Income | $89,754 | $66,429 |
| Renter % | 37.5% | 33.1% |
| Tenant Rights | 8/10 | 7/10 |
Rent Burden Comparison
Washington
2BR Rent: $1,395/mo of $89,754/yr income
18.7% of income
Illinois
2BR Rent: $1,165/mo of $66,429/yr income
21.0% of income
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Washington or Illinois cheaper to rent in?
Illinois has lower average rents. A 2-bedroom averages $1,165/mo, which is $230 less per month than Washington (16% cheaper).
Which state has better tenant protections, Washington or Illinois?
Washington has stronger tenant rights with a score of 8/10 compared to 7/10.
What is the income difference between Washington and Illinois?
Washington median income: $89,754. Illinois median income: $66,429. Difference: $23,325/year.