Chesterton, IN vs New Albany, IN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. New Albany is 23.2% cheaper than Chesterton. With a cost index of 76 vs 94, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from New Albany to Chesterton should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Chesterton is $1,145/month compared to $971/month in New Albany — a 18% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: New Albany is more affordable at $169,600 median vs $280,400.

Median household income in Chesterton is $88,536 compared to $54,152 in New Albany (+63.5%). While Chesterton is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Chesterton spend roughly 15.5% of their income on rent, less than the 21.5% in New Albany.