Columbus, GA vs Elgin, IL: 69 vs 90

$1,072/mo ↓ 15%

Median Rent

$1,260/mo ↑ 18%

$56,622/yr ↓ 36%

Median Income

$88,316/yr ↑ 56%

$182,300 ↓ 28%

Home Value

$252,400 ↑ 38%

$1,064/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,502/mo ↑ 41%

204,383

Population

114,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbus, GA and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 69 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $188/month cheaper in Columbus, saving renters about $2,256/year.

Median household income is $31,694/year higher in Elgin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbus is $182,300 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbus vs Elgin — common questions

Is Columbus or Elgin cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbus is cheaper to live in with an index of 69 compared to 90 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbus and Elgin?

Median rent in Columbus is $1,072/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $188/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbus or Elgin?

Median household income is $56,622 in Columbus and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $31,694/year higher in Elgin.

How do taxes compare between Georgia and Illinois?

Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Columbus or Elgin?

It depends on your priorities. Columbus has a cost index of 69 with median rent of $1,072/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.

Cost of Living: Columbus, GA vs Elgin, IL (2026)

Columbus

Elgin

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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