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