Monmouth, IL vs Zion, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Monmouth is 28.8% cheaper than Zion. With a cost index of 61 vs 85, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Monmouth to Zion should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Monmouth is $652/month compared to $1,139/month in Zion — a 43% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Monmouth is more affordable at $88,100 median vs $179,100.

Median household income in Monmouth is $59,690 compared to $62,574 in Zion (-4.6%). Zion 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 Monmouth spend roughly 13.1% of their income on rent, less than the 21.8% in Zion.