Hillsboro, IL vs New Athens, IL

Hillsboro is moderately more affordable than New Athens, with a 5.7% lower cost of living index. Hillsboro scores 67 compared to 71 for New Athens, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of New Athens can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Hillsboro is $841/month compared to $927/month in New Athens — a 9% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Hillsboro is more affordable at $95,800 median vs $118,100.

Median household income in Hillsboro is $48,158 compared to $61,477 in New Athens (-21.7%). While New Athens is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Hillsboro spend roughly 21% of their income on rent, more than the 18.1% in New Athens.

Climate-wise, New Athens is notably warmer with an average of 57.7°F compared to 54°F in Hillsboro. New Athens receives more rainfall at 43.4" per year compared to 38" in Hillsboro.