Lincoln, IL vs Wheeling, IL

The cost of living difference between Lincoln, IL and Wheeling, IL is dramatic. Lincoln is 35.3% cheaper than Wheeling, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Lincoln has a cost index of 67 while Wheeling sits at 104, 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 Lincoln is $804/month compared to $1,578/month in Wheeling — a 49% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Lincoln is more affordable at $111,600 median vs $244,600.

Median household income in Lincoln is $54,390 compared to $83,251 in Wheeling (-34.7%). The higher salaries in Wheeling partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Lincoln spend roughly 17.7% of their income on rent, less than the 22.7% in Wheeling.

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