Evanston, IL vs Springfield, IL

The cost of living difference between Evanston, IL and Springfield, IL is dramatic. Springfield is 72.5% cheaper than Evanston, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Evanston has a cost index of 126 while Springfield sits at 73, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Evanston is $1,698/month compared to $945/month in Springfield — a 80% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Springfield is more affordable at $155,200 median vs $472,300.

Median household income in Evanston is $95,766 compared to $65,537 in Springfield (+46.1%). The higher salaries in Evanston partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Evanston spend roughly 21.3% of their income on rent, more than the 17.3% in Springfield.

Climate-wise, Springfield is notably warmer with an average of 54°F compared to 50.8°F in Evanston. Springfield receives more rainfall at 38" per year compared to 32.3" in Evanston.