Buying0 views · 1 answer
How much income do I need to buy a home in Chicago?
Chicago snapshot
As of the latest 2026 data- Median listing
- $389K
- YoY +0.0%
- Active inventory
- 12,574
- YoY -0.1%
- Median DOM
- 33
- YoY +0.0%
- Pending ratio
- 1.11
- YoY +0.1%
- Price-reduced
- 11.1%
- YoY -0.0%
P
Primpted Housing Analyst
Data-backedPrimpted research desk
To afford a home in Chicago, you'd generally need an estimated income of around "$100,564" per year. This is based on the current median listing price in the area.
This income figure helps cover a monthly mortgage payment of about "$2,347". This estimate includes the principal and interest on the loan, property taxes, and homeowner's insurance, assuming a 20% down payment.
The median listing price for homes in Chicago is "$389,000". This price has seen a small increase of 2.4% compared to last year, meaning homes are slightly more expensive than they were.
It's worth noting that the average listing price is much higher at "$1,373,191". This big difference means there are some very expensive homes on the market, which can pull the average up a lot. The median price gives a better idea of what most people are actually paying.
With prices going up a bit, and fewer homes coming onto the market (new listings are down 13.0% from last year), it means you'll likely have fewer options to choose from. Homes are also staying on the market for 33 days, which is a little longer than last year.
For you as a homebuyer, this means you should focus on saving a solid down payment. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage will also give you a clear idea of what you can comfortably afford.
Featured experts in this market
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Michael Saladino
Keller Williams Realty
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