Chicago Heights, IL vs Decatur, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Decatur is 27.4% cheaper than Chicago Heights. With a cost index of 62 vs 80, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Decatur to Chicago Heights should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Chicago Heights is $1,035/month compared to $796/month in Decatur — a 30% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Decatur is more affordable at $97,300 median vs $149,900.

Median household income in Chicago Heights is $57,479 compared to $50,809 in Decatur (+13.1%). Chicago Heights 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 Chicago Heights spend roughly 21.6% of their income on rent, more than the 18.8% in Decatur.