Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Elgin, IL (2026)

Baltimore

Maryland
84
VS

Elgin

Illinois
90

Baltimore is 7% cheaper than Elgin.

$1,290/mo ↑ 2%
Median Rent
$1,260/mo ↓ 2%
$59,623/yr ↓ 32%
Median Income
$88,316/yr ↑ 48%
$219,300 ↓ 13%
Home Value
$252,400 ↑ 15%
$1,333/mo ↓ 11%
Owner Costs
$1,502/mo ↑ 13%
577,193
Population
114,106

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
4.95%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.07%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

26.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $28,693/year higher in Elgin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Elgin slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Elgin — common questions

Is Baltimore or Elgin cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Elgin?
Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $30/month.
Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Elgin?
Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $28,693/year higher in Elgin.
How do taxes compare between Maryland and Illinois?
Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Baltimore or Elgin?
It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Elgin has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,260/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Baltimore details → View Elgin details →

More Comparisons

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