Philadelphia, PA vs Elgin, IL: 85 vs 90

$1,323/mo ↑ 5%

Median Rent

$1,260/mo ↓ 5%

$60,698/yr ↓ 31%

Median Income

$88,316/yr ↑ 46%

$232,400 ↓ 8%

Home Value

$252,400 ↑ 9%

$1,233/mo ↓ 18%

Owner Costs

$1,502/mo ↑ 22%

1,582,432

Population

114,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $63/month cheaper in Elgin, saving renters about $756/year.

Median household income is $27,618/year higher in Elgin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Philadelphia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Elgin — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Elgin cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 90 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Elgin?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $63/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Elgin?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $27,618/year higher in Elgin.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Illinois?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Philadelphia or Elgin?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/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: Philadelphia, PA vs Elgin, IL (2026)

Philadelphia

Elgin

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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