Des Plaines, IL vs Grayslake, IL

Des Plaines, IL and Grayslake, IL have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2% difference in their overall index. Des Plaines scores 105 while Grayslake scores 103 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 Des Plaines is $1,435/month compared to $1,434/month in Grayslake — a 0% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Grayslake is more affordable at $293,900 median vs $318,200.

Median household income in Des Plaines is $94,303 compared to $113,697 in Grayslake (-17.1%). Grayslake offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Des Plaines spend roughly 18.3% of their income on rent, more than the 15.1% in Grayslake.