Side-by-side comparison of mortgage costs, property taxes, closing costs, and homeowners insurance between Illinois and Ohio. Updated for 2026.
Ohio wins 5 of 6 cost categories, making it the more affordable state for homebuyers overall. With a median home price of $215K and lower overall costs, Ohio offers meaningful savings compared to Illinois. Both states offer first-time buyer programs — explore the state pages for full details.
Estimated PITI payments assuming 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed mortgage with PMI.
The monthly payment difference is $561/month — that’s $6,732/year or $202K over the life of a 30-year loan. Buying in Ohio is the more affordable option based on median home prices with identical loan terms.
Based on the 28% debt-to-income rule — your monthly housing payment should not exceed 28% of gross monthly income.
To afford the median home in Illinois, you need a household income of approximately $97K/year. In Ohio, you need $73K/year — less by $24K/year. That $24K income gap means Ohio is accessible to a significantly wider range of households.
Home prices in Illinois and Ohio are relatively close, with only a 20% difference ($55K). At similar price points, your decision should focus on the other cost factors: property taxes, insurance, closing costs, and the overall quality of life each state offers. Small percentage differences in tax rates compound over decades of homeownership.
Ohio has a moderate property tax advantage at 1.56% versus Illinois's 2.07%. While the rate gap of 0.51% may seem small, it translates to an annual difference of approximately $2,235 when applied to each state's median home price. Over a typical homeownership period of 7-10 years, that adds up to $18K in savings.
Both states offer down payment assistance for first-time buyers. Illinois's IHDA 1stHomeIllinois provides $7,500 forgivable loan, while Ohio's OHFA Your Choice! Down Payment Assistance offers 2.5% or 5% of purchase price. These programs can significantly reduce your upfront costs and make homeownership accessible even if you haven't saved a full 20% down payment. Check eligibility requirements on each state's housing finance agency website — income limits and purchase price caps apply.
The bottom line: Illinois and Ohio are broadly similar in housing costs, with only $561/month separating them in total PITI payments. In cases like this, your decision should be driven by lifestyle preferences — job opportunities, climate, proximity to family, and quality of life — rather than pure cost savings. Either state offers a reasonable path to homeownership.