West Virginia vs Illinois: Rent Comparison 2026
Side-by-side comparison of fair market rents, income, and tenant protections between West Virginia and Illinois.
West Virginia is 40% cheaper for a 2-bedroom rental than Illinois, saving renters approximately $468/mo ($5,616/year).
| Metric | West Virginia | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1BR Rent | $564/mo | $948/mo |
| Average 2BR Rent | $697/mo | $1,165/mo |
| Median Income | $42,721 | $66,429 |
| Renter % | 28.2% | 33.1% |
| Tenant Rights | 3/10 | 7/10 |
Rent Burden Comparison
West Virginia
2BR Rent: $697/mo of $42,721/yr income
19.6% of income
Illinois
2BR Rent: $1,165/mo of $66,429/yr income
21.0% of income
Frequently Asked Questions
Is West Virginia or Illinois cheaper to rent in?
West Virginia has lower average rents. A 2-bedroom averages $697/mo, which is $468 less per month than Illinois (40% cheaper).
Which state has better tenant protections, West Virginia or Illinois?
Illinois has stronger tenant rights with a score of 7/10 compared to 3/10.
What is the income difference between West Virginia and Illinois?
West Virginia median income: $42,721. Illinois median income: $66,429. Difference: $23,708/year.