Fairview Heights, IL vs Hillsboro, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Hillsboro is 23.4% cheaper than Fairview Heights. With a cost index of 67 vs 83, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Hillsboro to Fairview Heights should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Fairview Heights is $1,177/month compared to $841/month in Hillsboro — a 40% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Hillsboro is more affordable at $95,800 median vs $166,800.

Median household income in Fairview Heights is $77,960 compared to $48,158 in Hillsboro (+61.9%). While Fairview Heights is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Fairview Heights spend roughly 18.1% of their income on rent, less than the 21% in Hillsboro.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (56.5°F vs 54°F). Fairview Heights receives more rainfall at 40.8" per year compared to 38" in Hillsboro.