Clayton, IL vs Steeleville, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Clayton is 16.2% cheaper than Steeleville. With a cost index of 59 vs 70, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Clayton to Steeleville should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Clayton is $578/month compared to $775/month in Steeleville — a 25% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Clayton is more affordable at $90,000 median vs $155,100.

Median household income in Clayton is $63,438 compared to $60,982 in Steeleville (+4%). Clayton offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Clayton spend roughly 10.9% of their income on rent, less than the 15.3% in Steeleville.