Most apartments in Macomb’s 61455 ZIP code rent for between $500 and $1,100 a month. Newer complexes that have laundry and multiple bedrooms rent for more while older near‑campus buildings rent for less. Rentometer’s February 2026 data shows the average rent is $473 for a studio, $673 for a one‑bedroom, $727 for a two‑bedroom, $1,018 for a three‑bedroom and $1,375 for four or more bedrooms. The Census Bureau’s 2019–2023 figure for gross rent in the city is $733 and gross rent includes utilities.
That rent is cheap by most standards, but Macomb has quirks that don’t show up on listing sites. The rental market is tied to Western Illinois University (WIU), which has been shrinking. The city runs a registration and inspection program that most renters never hear about. You can also get around without a car more easily than the town’s size suggests. This guide covers all of that so you can decide where to look and what to ask before you sign.
Why the rent numbers you find online don’t agree
When you look at three sites you will see three separate “average rents.” Average rents show how thin this market is.
Monthly average rents swung from $845 in January 2026, dropped to $648 in May and rose again to $720 in June. This kind of swing usually means that a small number of listings is pulling the average. Trulia’s city page listed 21 available rental listings.
RentCafe reports a higher figure of $1,440 for all rentals. RentCafe’s data covers buildings that have 50 or more units. That excludes small buildings and houses where much of Macomb’s cheaper housing is located. RentCafe is better used as a benchmark for larger complexes than for the town as a whole.
For planning, the Rentometer bedroom breakdown and the Census median offer a more stable picture. Use listings only to see what is actually available this month.
| Unit type | Typical range (Rentometer, Feb. 2026 averages) |
|---|---|
| Studio | about $470–$500 |
| 1 bedroom | about $625–$675 |
| 2 bedroom | about $720–$730 |
| 3 bedroom | about $940–$1,020 |
| 4+ bedroom | about $1,270–$1,375 |
Ranges combine Rentometer’s December 2025 and February 2026 reports. Individual listings vary widely.
Listing snapshots from this summer show how newer buildings with more amenities stand out above the typical prices. Turnberry Village on Wigwam Hollow Road was listed between $960 and $1,400 a month for units with 2 to 4 bedrooms. Older smaller units were more affordable with a $495 studio and a $720 two-bedroom that included in-unit laundry. Prices shift each week so use these numbers as an idea of the range, not a fixed rate.
What the 61455 ZIP code actually covers
Macomb is the county seat of McDonough County located 77 miles south of the Quad Cities. The ZIP code for Macomb extends beyond the city limits. According to the 2020 Census Macomb had 15,051 residents, down from 19,288 in 2010, a decline of 22 percent. Estimates that use the ZIP code for Macomb are higher because they include the countryside.
Renting is the norm in Macomb: 51 percent of households are renter‑occupied. The median year houses in Macomb were built is 1967. In Macomb you will notice mid‑century buildings, a few newer complexes along the outskirts and old houses divided into separate units. Check the windows, insulation and heating system in Macomb homes because Illinois winters can be harsh.
Neighborhoods and areas worth knowing
Macomb does not have officially named neighborhoods like a city does. Instead it is better to think about places in Macomb by looking at what’s close by.
Near campus (West Adams Road, University Drive, Eggers Drive area)
This is the walk-to-class zone, and it is a popular spot. One broker listing for a 100-unit property on Eggers Drive described the walk-to-class zone as steps from WIUs campus and about half a mile from downtown with a Walk Score of 78. Expect older buildings, smaller units and the cheapest rents in town.
It suits students without cars, and it is also where noise tolerance matters most.
West Jackson Street and Wigwam Hollow
This is where newer apartment communities cluster, including Turnberry Village and the W. Jackson Street complexes. One listing for 1505–1543 W Jackson showed $660 to $1,105 a month for one to three bedrooms. These communities tend to offer more square footage, in‑unit laundry and parking. You are a drive or bus ride from campus rather than a walk. Go West serves this corridor and buses run later at night between downtown, campus and East and West Jackson Street while WIU is in session.
Downtown and the square
Downtown is centered on the courthouse square. It has locally owned businesses and dining, and it feels like a real town center. Downtown is close to the Amtrak depot at 120 E. Calhoun Street. Downtown offers housing that’s a mix of older buildings and apartments above or near commercial space. Downtown is a good fit for staff, grad students and anyone who wants walkability beyond the campus bubble.
Edge-of-town and neighboring communities
River Run Drive and Reeveston Drive and the US-136 corridor provide quieter neighborhoods and newer buildings but you will need a car to get around. Redfin also listed two-bedroom apartments in La Harpe and Bardolph for about $535 to $550 per month. That is more affordable, but you would be adding a commute and losing Go West bus service.
The WIU factor: what a shrinking campus means for renters
Western Illinois University’s headcount is the biggest factor driving the rental market in Macomb, and it has dropped sharply. The official enrollment for fall 2025 was 5,337 students, which is 995 fewer than the previous year. Of those 4,786 were enrolled at the Macomb campus. Then spring 2026 came in at 4,735 students. One report suggests fall 2026 enrollment is lower still at 4,447, so check WIU’s institutional research page for the latest official figure. Either way, the trend is clear: enrollment is falling.
For renters this trend has real-world effects. With fewer students looking to rent there are available units competing for fewer tenants. That means you have room to ask for things like waived application fees, a lower security deposit or even a month of reduced rent—especially if the unit is still vacant in late summer or early fall. Still it’s not guaranteed. Smaller landlords who own one building might not have much flexibility while bigger property managers may be more open to negotiation. It’s also smart to ask how long a building has been vacant. A long vacancy could mean the owner is willing to bargain or it could mean there’s an issue with the property itself.
One more thing for students: according to CollegeData, freshmen and sophomores are required to live on campus. That cuts the off-campus market down mostly to upperclassmen and graduate students. Policies can change, so it’s important to confirm requirements directly with WIU Housing.
Getting around Macomb without a car
Go West Transit is the best option for getting around without a car. The city says the fixed-route service doesn’t charge any fare at all—everyone rides for free. The hours and which routes are running change depending on whether Western Illinois University is in session. So be sure to check the booklet before you decide to leave your car behind. The 2026–27 booklet says Route 19 will stop operating as a route on August 24 2026. If you need to travel outside the fixed routes the city offers demand-response service by reservation. You can call (309) 837-RIDE to book a ride.
For trips to Chicago, Amtrak’s Illinois Zephyr and Carl Sandburg trains stop at Macomb. WIU’s international office says the morning train leaves Union Station around 7:40 AM and arrives in Macomb around 10:59 AM. The evening train leaves around 5:55 PM and gets to Macomb about 9:14 PM. Keep in mind that schedules can change so it’s a good idea to double-check on Amtrak.com. The train depot has a local touch: it features an exhibit about Lizzie Magie, the woman who created The Landlords Game, the game that later became Monopoly.
Your rights, and a Macomb advantage most renters miss
Illinois basics
Illinois does not have a limit on security deposits. The state’s Security Deposit Return Act now applies to all landlords. According to the Attorney General’s tenant fact sheet a landlord must return your deposit within 45 days after you move out, as long as you have met all the conditions. If a landlord breaks the law they can be required to pay twice the amount of the deposit plus court costs and attorney’s fees. Some summaries mention a 30-day period for providing itemized deductions, so it is important to take photos of the property both when you move in and when you move out. Keep your records clear and your evidence strong. The Attorney General’s Landlord and Tenant Rights fact sheet is the best plain-language place to start. For eviction, the standard notices are 10 days for a lease violation, with a separate shorter notice for nonpayment.
Macomb’s rental registration and inspection program
This is the part competitors skip. The city requires landlords to register all rental units every year and its registration form says that owners who live more than 50 miles away need to have a local property manager. The city says tenants should talk to their landlord first. You can ask for an inspection if the landlord does not respond. You can call the Rental Housing Inspector at (309) 833-4944.
Two important tips. The city warns that you should keep paying rent even if the rental unit breaks housing rules because not paying can give the landlord a reason to kick you out. City documents say landlords have to provide working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors so make sure to check them during your walk through the unit.
What to ask before you sign
Rent is part of the cost. Ask what is included: water, trash and sewer are sometimes bundled, while electricity and heat are often not. Census gross rent figures include utilities so a low sticker price can mislead. Ask what heats the unit and what winter bills run. Ask about the deposit amount and move-out cleaning charges. Get those answers in the lease rather than by text. For a broader renter checklist, see our practical 2026 guide for renters.
Check whether the landlord is registered with the city, who’s the local contact and how maintenance requests are handled. Ask about parking since parking can be tight near campus. If you are signing remotely, request a video tour and a call with the manager, and never send money to someone who will not let you verify the unit exists.
Common mistakes renters make here
- Comparing averages instead of units. A $1,100 two-bedroom with in-unit laundry and parking isn’t the same product as a $720 older unit.
- Ignoring the winter. Heating costs and drafty windows matter more than a granite countertop.
- Assuming the bus covers your schedule. Evening and weekend service depends on the university calendar.
- Skipping the move-in photos. Deposit disputes are won with dated evidence.
- Not asking about vacancy. With enrollment down, a vacant unit may come with room to negotiate.
Which area fits which renter
| If you are… | Consider | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| A student without a car | Near campus (Adams Rd, University Dr) | Older buildings, more noise |
| A grad student or staff member with a car | West Jackson / Wigwam Hollow | Less walkable, higher rent |
| Splitting rent with roommates | 3–4 bedroom units or houses | Fewer options, check inspection status |
| Wanting a small-town feel | Downtown / courthouse square | Older housing, limited parking |
| Prioritizing the lowest rent | Nearby towns like La Harpe or Bardolph | Commute and no Go West service |
Frequently asked questions
How much is a one-bedroom apartment in Macomb, IL?
A one-bedroom apartment in Macomb, IL is expected to cost around $625 to $675 according to Rentometer data. Trulia reported an average of $600 for the 61455 ZIP code in June 2026, so expect rents in the low $600s for older units. Newer complexes may charge more.
Is 61455 the only ZIP code for Macomb?
Macomb uses 61455 as the ZIP code of Macomb. Nearby small communities have their ZIP codes, such as 61416, for Bardolph. Some listing sites group these ZIP codes together.
Do I need a car to live in Macomb?
You do not need a car to live in Macomb. The Go West bus is free and serves campus and the rest of the city. The Amtrak station is on the north edge of downtown. A car is useful for buying groceries going to work outside town and for evenings when WIU’s not in session.
Can non-students rent apartments in Macomb?
Yes. Renters are about half of all households in Macomb. Leases are available to anyone who meets the landlord’s qualifications.
How much is a security deposit?
Illinois has no statewide cap, so it varies by landlord. Get the amount and the return conditions in writing.
What can I do if my landlord won’t make repairs?
You can write your landlord a letter first. If that does not work you can ask the city’s Rental Housing Inspector to look at the unit. You should keep paying rent while you wait for the repairs to finish.
Are utilities included in Macomb rent?
It depends on the building. Always confirm which of water, trash, heat, electric, and internet are covered.
When is the best time to look?
Summer is when most student-focused buildings change hands. With fewer students, it is common to find vacancies later in the season, and those can often be negotiated. If you want a specific building, start looking early; if you can be flexible, keep searching.
Looking at other rental markets? See our guide to The Ponds on G E Road apartments in Bloomington, IL, our practical guide to apartments for rent in Los Angeles, or our Westlake, TX rental guide.
Sources & References
- U.S. Census Bureau, QuickFacts: Macomb city, Illinois
- Illinois Attorney General, Landlord and Tenant Rights fact sheet
- City of Macomb: Rental Inspections, Rental Registration Form, and Public Transportation pages
- Go West Bus Routes 2026–27 booklet (City of Macomb)
- Tri States Public Radio / NPR Illinois reporting on WIU enrollment (2025–2026)
- Amtrak Great American Stations: Macomb (MAC)
- Rentometer, Trulia, RentCafe, and Redfin rental market pages (data as of Feb.–July 2026)
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