East Chicago, IN vs Kokomo, IN

East Chicago, IN and Kokomo, IN have a very similar cost of living, with only a 1.7% difference in their overall index. East Chicago scores 68 while Kokomo scores 70 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 East Chicago is $820/month compared to $917/month in Kokomo — a 11% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: East Chicago is more affordable at $92,400 median vs $126,500.

Median household income in East Chicago is $41,071 compared to $54,195 in Kokomo (-24.2%). While Kokomo 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 Chicago spend roughly 24% of their income on rent, more than the 20.3% in Kokomo.