Galesburg, IL vs Waukegan, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Galesburg is 26.8% cheaper than Waukegan. With a cost index of 63 vs 86, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Galesburg to Waukegan should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Galesburg is $719/month compared to $1,163/month in Waukegan — a 38% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Galesburg is more affordable at $89,800 median vs $177,600.

Median household income in Galesburg is $45,213 compared to $70,578 in Waukegan (-35.9%). While Waukegan is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Galesburg spend roughly 19.1% of their income on rent, less than the 19.8% in Waukegan.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (51.2°F vs 48.3°F). Galesburg receives more rainfall at 38.3" per year compared to 35.3" in Waukegan.