Arlington Heights, IL vs Niles, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Niles is 18.4% cheaper than Arlington Heights. With a cost index of 102 vs 121, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Niles to Arlington Heights should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Arlington Heights is $1,727/month compared to $1,247/month in Niles — a 39% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Niles is more affordable at $350,900 median vs $403,200.

Median household income in Arlington Heights is $118,532 compared to $78,563 in Niles (+50.9%). While Arlington Heights is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Arlington Heights spend roughly 17.5% of their income on rent, less than the 19% in Niles.