Eugene, OR vs Elgin, IL: 111 vs 90

$1,347/mo ↑ 7%

Median Rent

$1,260/mo ↓ 6%

$63,836/yr ↓ 28%

Median Income

$88,316/yr ↑ 38%

$435,400 ↑ 73%

Home Value

$252,400 ↓ 42%

$1,421/mo ↓ 5%

Owner Costs

$1,502/mo ↑ 6%

177,520

Population

114,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Eugene, OR and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 111 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $87/month cheaper in Elgin, saving renters about $1,044/year.

Median household income is $24,480/year higher in Elgin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Eugene is $435,400 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Eugene vs Elgin — common questions

Is Eugene or Elgin cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Elgin is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 111 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Eugene and Elgin?

Median rent in Eugene is $1,347/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $87/month.

Which city has higher income, Eugene or Elgin?

Median household income is $63,836 in Eugene and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $24,480/year higher in Elgin.

How do taxes compare between Oregon and Illinois?

Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Eugene or Elgin?

It depends on your priorities. Eugene has a cost index of 111 with median rent of $1,347/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: Eugene, OR vs Elgin, IL (2026)

Eugene

Elgin

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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