Free comparison
Moving from Illinois to Kentucky
A side-by-side comparison drawn from BLS, BEA, Census, FBI, and NOAA. Chicago global city, second-highest property taxes in US. vs. Bourbon, horses, Appalachian + Bluegrass mix.
Illinois
Capital: Springfield
Median household income $78,433 · winter low 19°F · 189 sunny days
Chicago global city, second-highest property taxes in US.
Kentucky
Capital: Frankfort
Median household income $60,183 · winter low 26°F · 189 sunny days
Bourbon, horses, Appalachian + Bluegrass mix.
Kentucky has an overall price level 90.2 (US avg = 100). Housing dominates the difference.
Summer high 87°F · Winter low 26°F · 189 sunny days/yr.
Get the full Illinois → Kentucky report
Schools, healthcare, taxes, transportation, lifestyle, crime, family fit, move logistics, and a 90-day move timeline.
See the full comparisonFrequently asked
Is it cheaper to live in Kentucky than Illinois?
Kentucky's overall price level is roughly 87.5 (US avg = 100), vs about 99.4 for Illinois, 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?
Illinois tops out at 4.95% income tax. Kentucky tops out at 3.5%.
How long do I have to register my vehicle in Kentucky?
Most Kentucky residents must register a vehicle within 30-60 days of moving. Check the piomover report for state-specific deadlines.