Is the cost of living in Illinois high?

"The cost of living in Illinois is generally considered to be above the national average. Rents can vary widely depending on where in the state you live, but for a standard, nice 1 bedroom apartment, you can expect to pay around $1,000 to $1,200 per month. A nice 2 bedroom apartment in Illinois can cost around $1,500 per month on average. To dine at a moderately priced restaurant in Illinois, you should anticipate spending between $25 and $40 for two people," commented one expat who made the move to Illinois.