Pekin, IL vs Waukegan, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Pekin is 24.4% cheaper than Waukegan. With a cost index of 65 vs 86, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Pekin to Waukegan should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Pekin is $792/month compared to $1,163/month in Waukegan — a 32% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Pekin is more affordable at $118,200 median vs $177,600.

Median household income in Pekin is $58,355 compared to $70,578 in Waukegan (-17.3%). The higher salaries in Waukegan partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Pekin spend roughly 16.3% of their income on rent, less than the 19.8% in Waukegan.

Climate-wise, Pekin is notably warmer with an average of 52.7°F compared to 48.3°F in Waukegan. Pekin receives more rainfall at 37.6" per year compared to 35.3" in Waukegan.