Round Lake Heights, IL vs West Frankfort, IL

The cost of living difference between Round Lake Heights, IL and West Frankfort, IL is dramatic. West Frankfort is 59.2% cheaper than Round Lake Heights, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Round Lake Heights has a cost index of 95 while West Frankfort sits at 60, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Round Lake Heights is $1,435/month compared to $673/month in West Frankfort — a 113% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: West Frankfort is more affordable at $72,500 median vs $196,100.

Median household income in Round Lake Heights is $75,556 compared to $48,143 in West Frankfort (+56.9%). The higher salaries in Round Lake Heights partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Round Lake Heights spend roughly 22.8% of their income on rent, more than the 16.8% in West Frankfort.

Climate-wise, West Frankfort is notably warmer with an average of 56.4°F compared to 48.3°F in Round Lake Heights. West Frankfort receives more rainfall at 44" per year compared to 35.3" in Round Lake Heights.