Free comparison
Moving from Montana to Illinois
A side-by-side comparison drawn from BLS, BEA, Census, FBI, and NOAA. Big sky, no sales tax, rapidly gentrifying small towns. vs. Chicago global city, second-highest property taxes in US.
Montana
Capital: Helena
Median household income $67,631 · winter low 14°F · 205 sunny days
Big sky, no sales tax, rapidly gentrifying small towns.
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 Montana?
Illinois's overall price level is roughly 99.4 (US avg = 100), vs about 95 for Montana — 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?
Montana tops out at 5.65% 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.