East Alton, IL vs New Athens, IL

East Alton is moderately more affordable than New Athens, with a 6.8% lower cost of living index. East Alton scores 66 compared to 71 for New Athens, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of New Athens can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in East Alton is $819/month compared to $927/month in New Athens — a 12% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: East Alton is more affordable at $99,600 median vs $118,100.

Median household income in East Alton is $46,926 compared to $61,477 in New Athens (-23.7%). While New Athens is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of East Alton spend roughly 20.9% of their income on rent, more than the 18.1% in New Athens.