Arlington Heights, IL vs Northbrook, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Arlington Heights is 23.9% cheaper than Northbrook. With a cost index of 121 vs 159, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Arlington Heights to Northbrook should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Arlington Heights is $1,727/month compared to $2,334/month in Northbrook — a 26% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Arlington Heights is more affordable at $403,200 median vs $644,100.

Median household income in Arlington Heights is $118,532 compared to $155,321 in Northbrook (-23.7%). The higher salaries in Northbrook partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Arlington Heights spend roughly 17.5% of their income on rent, less than the 18% in Northbrook.