Arlington Heights, IL vs Wilmette, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Arlington Heights is 24.8% cheaper than Wilmette. With a cost index of 121 vs 161, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Arlington Heights to Wilmette should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Arlington Heights is $1,727/month compared to $1,968/month in Wilmette — a 12% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Arlington Heights is more affordable at $403,200 median vs $802,200.

Median household income in Arlington Heights is $118,532 compared to $192,300 in Wilmette (-38.4%). While Wilmette 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, more than the 12.3% in Wilmette.