Chicago Heights, IL vs Des Plaines, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Chicago Heights is 24.6% cheaper than Des Plaines. With a cost index of 80 vs 105, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Chicago Heights to Des Plaines should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Chicago Heights is $1,035/month compared to $1,435/month in Des Plaines — a 28% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Chicago Heights is more affordable at $149,900 median vs $318,200.

Median household income in Chicago Heights is $57,479 compared to $94,303 in Des Plaines (-39%). While Des Plaines is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Chicago Heights spend roughly 21.6% of their income on rent, more than the 18.3% in Des Plaines.