Nelson, IL vs Xenia, IL

Nelson, IL and Xenia, IL have a very similar cost of living, with only a 2.4% difference in their overall index. Nelson scores 58 while Xenia scores 59 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Nelson is $600/month compared to $625/month in Xenia — a 4% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Nelson is more affordable at $71,300 median vs $79,200.

Median household income in Nelson is $45,938 compared to $44,107 in Xenia (+4.2%). Nelson offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Nelson spend roughly 15.7% of their income on rent, less than the 17% in Xenia.