Oblong, IL vs Watseka, IL
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Oblong is 16% cheaper than Watseka. With a cost index of 56 vs 67, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Oblong to Watseka should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Oblong is $532/month compared to $815/month in Watseka — a 35% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Oblong is more affordable at $78,400 median vs $104,400.
Median household income in Oblong is $52,702 compared to $42,794 in Watseka (+23.2%). Oblong offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of Oblong spend roughly 12.1% of their income on rent, less than the 22.9% in Watseka.
Climate-wise, Oblong is notably warmer with an average of 55.7°F compared to 52.3°F in Watseka. Oblong receives more rainfall at 41.7" per year compared to 40.4" in Watseka.
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Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)