Evicting a bad tenant in Illinois costs ~$7,987.
How Illinois handles evictions
Cook County has a dedicated housing court with significant backlog.
Most of that loss is preventable.
Bad tenants almost always leave a paper trail — the problem is that most landlords don't check carefully. Here's what a proper screening catches before you sign the lease.
Illinois eviction cost FAQ
How much does it cost to evict someone in Illinois?
A typical contested eviction in Illinois costs around $7,987 all-in: a $237 filing fee, roughly 1.5 months of lost rent ($2,550 at a typical $1,700/mo), plus legal fees, property damage beyond the deposit, and turnover costs. Uncontested cases cost less.
How long does an eviction take in Illinois?
About 45 days (~6 weeks) on average from notice to lockout. Cook County has a dedicated housing court with significant backlog.
How much is the eviction filing fee in Illinois?
$237, filed with the Circuit Court (Forcible Entry and Detainer). Service, writ, and execution fees are typically extra and vary by county/court.
What court handles evictions in Illinois?
Evictions in Illinois are handled by the Circuit Court (Forcible Entry and Detainer).
Sources & methodology
Filing fees and timelines reflect the Circuit Court (Forcible Entry and Detainer) and public tribunal fee schedules; cost figures are estimates compiled from public court schedules, Eviction Lab, and state guides — actual costs vary by county, contest status, and market conditions.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Consult a local attorney for your specific situation.