Santa Ana, CA vs Elgin, IL: 163 vs 90

$1,975/mo ↑ 57%

Median Rent

$1,260/mo ↓ 36%

$88,354/yr ≈ Same

Median Income

$88,316/yr ≈ Same

$657,800 ↑ 161%

Home Value

$252,400 ↓ 62%

$1,965/mo ↑ 31%

Owner Costs

$1,502/mo ↓ 24%

311,639

Population

114,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Santa Ana, CA and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 163 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $715/month cheaper in Elgin, saving renters about $8,580/year.

Median household income is $38/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Santa Ana is $657,800 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Ana vs Elgin — common questions

Is Santa Ana or Elgin cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Elgin is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Santa Ana and Elgin?

Median rent in Santa Ana is $1,975/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $715/month.

Which city has higher income, Santa Ana or Elgin?

Median household income is $88,354 in Santa Ana and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $38/year higher in Santa Ana.

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 Santa Ana or Elgin?

It depends on your priorities. Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with median rent of $1,975/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: Santa Ana, CA vs Elgin, IL (2026)

Santa Ana

Elgin

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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