Belgium, IL vs Essex, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Belgium is 23.6% cheaper than Essex. With a cost index of 65 vs 85, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Belgium to Essex should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Belgium is $831/month compared to $1,147/month in Essex — a 28% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Belgium is more affordable at $75,900 median vs $219,000.

Median household income in Belgium is $61,591 compared to $101,094 in Essex (-39.1%). While Essex is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Belgium spend roughly 16.2% of their income on rent, more than the 13.6% in Essex.