Hamilton, IL vs Oakland, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Oakland is 21.4% cheaper than Hamilton. With a cost index of 57 vs 69, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Oakland to Hamilton should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Hamilton is $888/month compared to $509/month in Oakland — a 75% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Oakland is more affordable at $97,200 median vs $105,600.

Median household income in Hamilton is $53,487 compared to $49,571 in Oakland (+7.9%). Hamilton 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 Hamilton spend roughly 19.9% of their income on rent, more than the 12.3% in Oakland.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (51.9°F vs 53.4°F). Hamilton receives more rainfall at 37.9" per year compared to 36" in Oakland.