San Antonio, TX vs Elgin, IL: 82 vs 90

$1,258/mo ≈ Same

Median Rent

$1,260/mo ≈ Same

$62,917/yr ↓ 29%

Median Income

$88,316/yr ↑ 40%

$219,700 ↓ 13%

Home Value

$252,400 ↑ 15%

$1,235/mo ↓ 18%

Owner Costs

$1,502/mo ↑ 22%

1,458,954

Population

114,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Antonio, TX and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $25,399/year higher in Elgin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Antonio is $219,700 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

Texas has no state income tax, giving San Antonio residents a significant tax advantage over Illinois's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

San Antonio vs Elgin — common questions

Is San Antonio or Elgin cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, San Antonio is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 90 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Antonio and Elgin?

Median rent in San Antonio is $1,258/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $2/month.

Which city has higher income, San Antonio or Elgin?

Median household income is $62,917 in San Antonio and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $25,399/year higher in Elgin.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Illinois?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to San Antonio or Elgin?

It depends on your priorities. San Antonio has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,258/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: San Antonio, TX vs Elgin, IL (2026)

San Antonio

Elgin

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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