Chesterton, IN vs Valparaiso, IN

Chesterton, IN and Valparaiso, IN have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2.8% difference in their overall index. Chesterton scores 94 while Valparaiso scores 91 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Chesterton is $1,145/month compared to $1,142/month in Valparaiso — a 0% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Valparaiso is more affordable at $250,500 median vs $280,400.

Median household income in Chesterton is $88,536 compared to $67,664 in Valparaiso (+30.8%). 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 20.3% in Valparaiso.