Marengo, IN vs New Chicago, IN

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Marengo is 24.9% cheaper than New Chicago. With a cost index of 59 vs 79, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Marengo to New Chicago should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Marengo is $637/month compared to $1,090/month in New Chicago — a 42% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Marengo is more affordable at $87,500 median vs $118,900.

Median household income in Marengo is $43,458 compared to $54,700 in New Chicago (-20.6%). The higher salaries in New Chicago partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Marengo spend roughly 17.6% of their income on rent, less than the 23.9% in New Chicago.