Elkhart, IL vs Gardner, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Elkhart is 18.2% cheaper than Gardner. With a cost index of 67 vs 82, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Elkhart to Gardner should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Elkhart is $768/month compared to $1,024/month in Gardner — a 25% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Elkhart is more affordable at $123,200 median vs $183,300.

Median household income in Elkhart is $98,750 compared to $82,125 in Gardner (+20.2%). Elkhart offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Elkhart spend roughly 9.3% of their income on rent, less than the 15% in Gardner.

Climate-wise, Elkhart is notably warmer with an average of 54°F compared to 49.4°F in Gardner. Elkhart receives more rainfall at 38" per year compared to 33.8" in Gardner.