Chicago, IL vs Evansville, IN: 100 vs 57

$1,380/mo ↑ 45%

Median Rent

$949/mo ↓ 31%

$75,134/yr ↑ 44%

Median Income

$52,251/yr ↓ 30%

$315,200 ↑ 144%

Home Value

$129,100 ↓ 59%

$1,502/mo ↑ 63%

Owner Costs

$919/mo ↓ 39%

2,707,648

Population

116,441

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Evansville, IN, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 57 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $431/month cheaper in Evansville, saving renters about $5,172/year.

Median household income is $22,883/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $129,100 in Evansville.

Indiana has a lower income tax rate, making Evansville slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Evansville — common questions

Is Chicago or Evansville cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Evansville is cheaper to live in with an index of 57 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Evansville?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Evansville it's $949/month — a difference of $431/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Evansville?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $52,251 in Evansville. Median household income is $22,883/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Indiana?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Indiana has 3.05% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Evansville?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Evansville has a cost index of 57 with rent of $949/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Evansville, IN (2026)

Chicago

Evansville

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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