Free comparison
Moving from California to Illinois
A side-by-side comparison drawn from BLS, BEA, Census, FBI, and NOAA. Tech, beaches, mountains — and the country's highest housing costs. vs. Chicago global city, second-highest property taxes in US.
California
Capital: Sacramento
Median household income $91,905 · winter low 45°F · 258 sunny days
Tech, beaches, mountains — and the country's highest housing costs.
Illinois
Capital: Springfield
Median household income $78,433 · winter low 19°F · 189 sunny days
Chicago global city, second-highest property taxes in US.
Illinois has an overall price level 100.0 (US avg = 100). Housing dominates the difference.
Summer high 85°F · Winter low 19°F · 189 sunny days/yr.
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See the full comparisonFrequently asked
Is it cheaper to live in Illinois than California?
Illinois's overall price level is roughly 99.4 (US avg = 100), vs about 113 for California — based on BEA Regional Price Parities. Housing is the dominant driver of the difference. Run a comparison for the full, current breakdown.
What's the income tax difference?
California tops out at 13.3% income tax. Illinois tops out at 4.95%.
How long do I have to register my vehicle in Illinois?
Most Illinois residents must register a vehicle within 30-60 days of moving. Check the piomover report for state-specific deadlines.