Elgin, IL vs Streamwood, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Elgin is 16.2% cheaper than Streamwood. With a cost index of 95 vs 113, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Elgin to Streamwood should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Elgin is $1,260/month compared to $1,849/month in Streamwood — a 32% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Elgin is more affordable at $252,400 median vs $258,300.

Median household income in Elgin is $88,316 compared to $101,049 in Streamwood (-12.6%). The higher salaries in Streamwood partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Elgin spend roughly 17.1% of their income on rent, less than the 22% in Streamwood.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (49.7°F vs 49.7°F). Streamwood receives more rainfall at 33.2" per year compared to 33.2" in Elgin.