Cost of Living: Pittsburgh, PA vs Elgin, IL (2026)

Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania
76
VS

Elgin

Illinois
90

Pittsburgh is 16% cheaper than Elgin.

$1,221/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$1,260/mo ↑ 3%
$64,137/yr ↓ 27%
Median Income
$88,316/yr ↑ 38%
$193,200 ↓ 23%
Home Value
$252,400 ↑ 31%
$1,136/mo ↓ 24%
Owner Costs
$1,502/mo ↑ 32%
303,620
Population
114,106

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
4.95%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.49%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

22.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pittsburgh, PA and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $24,179/year higher in Elgin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pittsburgh is $193,200 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Pittsburgh vs Elgin — common questions

Is Pittsburgh or Elgin cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Pittsburgh is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Pittsburgh and Elgin?
Median rent in Pittsburgh is $1,221/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $39/month.
Which city has higher income, Pittsburgh or Elgin?
Median household income is $64,137 in Pittsburgh and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $24,179/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 Pittsburgh or Elgin?
It depends on your priorities. Pittsburgh has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,221/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.
View Pittsburgh details → View Elgin details →

More Comparisons

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