Dayton, OH vs Elgin, IL: 50 vs 90

$866/mo ↓ 31%

Median Rent

$1,260/mo ↑ 45%

$43,454/yr ↓ 51%

Median Income

$88,316/yr ↑ 103%

$93,200 ↓ 63%

Home Value

$252,400 ↑ 171%

$833/mo ↓ 45%

Owner Costs

$1,502/mo ↑ 80%

136,741

Population

114,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Dayton, OH and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 50 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $394/month cheaper in Dayton, saving renters about $4,728/year.

Median household income is $44,862/year higher in Elgin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Dayton is $93,200 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Dayton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dayton vs Elgin — common questions

Is Dayton or Elgin cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Dayton is cheaper to live in with an index of 50 compared to 90 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Dayton and Elgin?

Median rent in Dayton is $866/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $394/month.

Which city has higher income, Dayton or Elgin?

Median household income is $43,454 in Dayton and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $44,862/year higher in Elgin.

How do taxes compare between Ohio and Illinois?

Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Dayton or Elgin?

It depends on your priorities. Dayton has a cost index of 50 with median rent of $866/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: Dayton, OH vs Elgin, IL (2026)

Dayton

Elgin

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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