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Cost of Living in Rock Island

Is it better to rent or buy in Rock Island? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$53,389
$880/mo

Median in area: $880

$110,942

Median in area: $110,942

$22,188

If you Rent

🔑
$1,039 /mo
Base Rent$880
Est. Utilities$159
% of Income23.4%
Pre-tax Residual$3,410

If you Buy

🏠
$1,053 /mo
P&I (7.452%)$618
Taxes & Ins$276
Est. Utilities$159
% of Income23.7%
Pre-tax Residual$3,396

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Rock Island?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Rock Island. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,039, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $1,053 per month (a difference of $14).

How much do utilities cost in Rock Island?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Rock Island is approximately $159. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Rock Island?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Rock Island without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $41,560 per year.