Niles, IL vs River Grove, IL

River Grove is moderately more affordable than Niles, with a 9.9% lower cost of living index. Niles scores 102 compared to 93 for River Grove, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of Niles can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in Niles is $1,247/month compared to $1,230/month in River Grove — a 1% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: River Grove is more affordable at $244,700 median vs $350,900.

Median household income in Niles is $78,563 compared to $74,793 in River Grove (+5%). The higher salaries in Niles partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Niles spend roughly 19% of their income on rent, less than the 19.7% in River Grove.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (51.3°F vs 51.3°F). River Grove receives more rainfall at 37.9" per year compared to 37.9" in Niles.