Olney, IL vs Zion, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Olney is 23.8% cheaper than Zion. With a cost index of 65 vs 85, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Olney to Zion should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Olney is $769/month compared to $1,139/month in Zion — a 33% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Olney is more affordable at $96,900 median vs $179,100.

Median household income in Olney is $57,997 compared to $62,574 in Zion (-7.3%). Zion does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Olney spend roughly 15.9% of their income on rent, less than the 21.8% in Zion.