Peoria, IL vs Waukegan, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Peoria is 15.8% cheaper than Waukegan. With a cost index of 72 vs 86, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Peoria to Waukegan should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Peoria is $951/month compared to $1,163/month in Waukegan — a 18% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Peoria is more affordable at $149,500 median vs $177,600.

Median household income in Peoria is $58,716 compared to $70,578 in Waukegan (-16.8%). While Waukegan is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Peoria spend roughly 19.4% of their income on rent, less than the 19.8% in Waukegan.

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