Cost of Living: Topeka, KS vs Springfield, IL (2026)

Topeka

Kansas
58
VS

Springfield

Illinois
61

Topeka is 5% cheaper than Springfield.

$947/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$945/mo ≈ Same
$55,902/yr ↓ 15%
Median Income
$65,537/yr ↑ 17%
$130,600 ↓ 16%
Home Value
$155,200 ↑ 19%
$930/mo ↓ 5%
Owner Costs
$974/mo ↑ 5%
126,103
Population
113,714

Tax Comparison

5.7%
Income Tax
4.95%
6.5%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.41%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

20.3%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Topeka, KS and Springfield, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 58 and 61 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $9,635/year higher in Springfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Topeka is $130,600 compared to $155,200 in Springfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Topeka vs Springfield — common questions

Is Topeka or Springfield cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Topeka is cheaper to live in with an index of 58 compared to 61 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Topeka and Springfield?
Median rent in Topeka is $947/month and in Springfield it's $945/month — a difference of $2/month.
Which city has higher income, Topeka or Springfield?
Median household income is $55,902 in Topeka and $65,537 in Springfield. Median household income is $9,635/year higher in Springfield.
How do taxes compare between Kansas and Illinois?
Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Topeka or Springfield?
It depends on your priorities. Topeka has a cost index of 58 with median rent of $947/mo, while Springfield has a cost index of 61 with rent of $945/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Topeka details → View Springfield details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Topeka and Springfield

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