Elmwood, IL vs Hardin, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Hardin is 23.8% cheaper than Elmwood. With a cost index of 53 vs 66, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Hardin to Elmwood should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Elmwood is $761/month compared to $417/month in Hardin — a 83% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Hardin is more affordable at $90,500 median vs $144,600.

Median household income in Elmwood is $87,644 compared to $85,417 in Hardin (+2.6%). Elmwood does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Elmwood spend roughly 10.4% of their income on rent, more than the 5.9% in Hardin.

Climate-wise, Hardin is notably warmer with an average of 56.1°F compared to 52.7°F in Elmwood. Hardin receives more rainfall at 39.4" per year compared to 37.6" in Elmwood.