Des Plaines, IL vs West Chicago, IL

Des Plaines, IL and West Chicago, IL have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2.7% difference in their overall index. Des Plaines scores 105 while West Chicago 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 $1,376/month in West Chicago — a 4% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: West Chicago is more affordable at $306,500 median vs $318,200.

Median household income in Des Plaines is $94,303 compared to $100,568 in West Chicago (-6.2%). West Chicago 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 16.4% in West Chicago.