Carrollton, IL vs University Park, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Carrollton is 24.3% cheaper than University Park. With a cost index of 71 vs 94, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Carrollton to University Park should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Carrollton is $920/month compared to $1,530/month in University Park — a 40% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Carrollton is more affordable at $114,100 median vs $137,800.

Median household income in Carrollton is $64,464 compared to $65,580 in University Park (-1.7%). University Park does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Carrollton spend roughly 17.1% of their income on rent, less than the 28% in University Park.