Benton, IL vs Richmond, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Benton is 29% cheaper than Richmond. With a cost index of 64 vs 90, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Benton to Richmond should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Benton is $776/month compared to $1,183/month in Richmond — a 34% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Benton is more affordable at $85,100 median vs $225,800.

Median household income in Benton is $51,349 compared to $70,379 in Richmond (-27%). The higher salaries in Richmond partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Benton spend roughly 18.1% of their income on rent, less than the 20.2% in Richmond.