Niles, IL vs Waukegan, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Waukegan is 19.6% cheaper than Niles. With a cost index of 86 vs 102, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Waukegan to Niles should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Niles is $1,247/month compared to $1,163/month in Waukegan — a 7% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Waukegan is more affordable at $177,600 median vs $350,900.

Median household income in Niles is $78,563 compared to $70,578 in Waukegan (+11.3%). 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 19.8% in Waukegan.

Climate-wise, Niles is notably warmer with an average of 51.3°F compared to 48.3°F in Waukegan. Niles receives more rainfall at 37.9" per year compared to 35.3" in Waukegan.