Elgin, IL vs Miami Gardens, FL: 90 vs 115

$1,260/mo ↓ 26%

Median Rent

$1,709/mo ↑ 36%

$88,316/yr ↑ 45%

Median Income

$60,979/yr ↓ 31%

$252,400 ↓ 25%

Home Value

$337,200 ↑ 34%

$1,502/mo ↓ 8%

Owner Costs

$1,640/mo ↑ 9%

114,106

Population

111,264

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Elgin, IL and Miami Gardens, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 90 and 115 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $449/month cheaper in Elgin, saving renters about $5,388/year.

Median household income is $27,337/year higher in Elgin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Elgin is $252,400 compared to $337,200 in Miami Gardens.

Florida has no state income tax, giving Miami Gardens residents a significant tax advantage over Illinois's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Elgin vs Miami Gardens — common questions

Is Elgin or Miami Gardens cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Elgin is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 115 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Elgin and Miami Gardens?

Median rent in Elgin is $1,260/month and in Miami Gardens it's $1,709/month — a difference of $449/month.

Which city has higher income, Elgin or Miami Gardens?

Median household income is $88,316 in Elgin and $60,979 in Miami Gardens. Median household income is $27,337/year higher in Elgin.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Florida?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.

Should I move to Elgin or Miami Gardens?

It depends on your priorities. Elgin has a cost index of 90 with median rent of $1,260/mo, while Miami Gardens has a cost index of 115 with rent of $1,709/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Elgin, IL vs Miami Gardens, FL (2026)

Elgin

Miami Gardens

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons