The three taxes that make up your Illinois burden
Most of what you pay a state and its localities comes from three taxes: income tax on what you earn, sales tax on what you spend, and property tax on what you own.
In Illinois that means income tax up to 4.95%, sales tax around 8.82%, and property tax averaging 2.07%.
This calculator adds all three so you can see your real total — the number that actually matters when comparing states.
Why total burden beats any single rate
States trade these taxes off against each other. A no-income-tax state often has high property or sales tax; a low-property-tax state may tax income heavily.
Looking at just one tax is misleading. The effective burden — total tax divided by income — is the honest way to compare Illinois with somewhere else.
What this estimate covers
This combines state and average local income, sales and property tax on the figures you enter. It excludes federal tax, excise taxes, fees, and credits, and uses average rates rather than your exact locality.
Treat it as a planning comparison and verify specifics with the Illinois Department of Revenue (tax.illinois.gov).
Frequently asked questions
How much total tax do I pay in Illinois?
It depends on your income, spending and home value across the three main taxes. Illinois has income tax, about 8.82% sales tax and 2.07% average property tax — this calculator adds them up.
What is tax burden?
Tax burden is the total state and local tax you pay as a share of your income, combining income, sales and property tax. It is the fairest way to compare states.
Does a no-income-tax state mean lower taxes?
Not necessarily. States without income tax often have higher sales or property taxes. Compare the total burden, not one rate.
Does this include federal tax?
No. It covers IL state and local income, sales and property tax only. Federal income tax and FICA are separate.