San Francisco, CA vs Elgin, IL: 267 vs 90

$2,419/mo ↑ 92%

Median Rent

$1,260/mo ↓ 48%

$141,446/yr ↑ 60%

Median Income

$88,316/yr ↓ 38%

$1,380,500 ↑ 447%

Home Value

$252,400 ↓ 82%

$2,620/mo ↑ 74%

Owner Costs

$1,502/mo ↓ 43%

836,321

Population

114,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Francisco, CA and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 267 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,159/month cheaper in Elgin, saving renters about $13,908/year.

Median household income is $53,130/year higher in San Francisco. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Francisco is $1,380,500 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Francisco vs Elgin — common questions

Is San Francisco or Elgin cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Elgin is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 267 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Francisco and Elgin?

Median rent in San Francisco is $2,419/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $1,159/month.

Which city has higher income, San Francisco or Elgin?

Median household income is $141,446 in San Francisco and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $53,130/year higher in San Francisco.

How do taxes compare between California and Illinois?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to San Francisco or Elgin?

It depends on your priorities. San Francisco has a cost index of 267 with median rent of $2,419/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 Francisco, CA vs Elgin, IL (2026)

San Francisco

Elgin

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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