Naperville, IL vs Springfield, IL

The cost of living difference between Naperville, IL and Springfield, IL is dramatic. Springfield is 83.1% cheaper than Naperville, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Naperville has a cost index of 134 while Springfield sits at 73, 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 Naperville is $1,852/month compared to $945/month in Springfield — a 96% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Springfield is more affordable at $155,200 median vs $509,900.

Median household income in Naperville is $150,937 compared to $65,537 in Springfield (+130.3%). While Naperville is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Naperville spend roughly 14.7% of their income on rent, less than the 17.3% in Springfield.

Climate-wise, Springfield is notably warmer with an average of 54°F compared to 49.7°F in Naperville. Springfield receives more rainfall at 38" per year compared to 33.2" in Naperville.