Apple River, IL vs Columbus, IL

Apple River is moderately more affordable than Columbus, with a 6.5% lower cost of living index. Apple River scores 64 compared to 69 for Columbus, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Columbus can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Apple River is $800/month compared to $875/month in Columbus — a 9% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Apple River is more affordable at $78,600 median vs $105,400.

Median household income in Apple River is $50,250 compared to $72,500 in Columbus (-30.7%). While Columbus is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Apple River spend roughly 19.1% of their income on rent, more than the 14.5% in Columbus.