California
High tax burden · COL index 142
Wins 4 categories
Illinois
High tax burden · COL index 92
Wins 8 categories
California's top income tax rate is 13.3% vs Illinois's 4.95%. Cost of living in California (index 142) runs 54% higher than Illinois (index 92). Property taxes are meaningfully different: Illinois averages 1.73% annually vs California's 0.71%. The median home in California costs $790K vs $275K in Illinois.
Taxes
Housing & Cost of Living
Crime & Safety
Healthcare
Education
Childcare
Utilities & Daily Costs
Social Policy
Category wins
4
California
8
Illinois
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Is it cheaper to live in Illinois or California?
Cost of Living Difference According to My Life Elsewhere, the cost of living in California is 22.3% more expensive than in Illinois. Individuals can expect to pay more for everything, including housing, childcare, and everyday essentials. Renting and owning a home is also much more expensive in California.
Is $70,000 enough to live in California?
Is $70k Enough to Live in Los Angeles? A $70,000 salary in Los Angeles is enough to get by, but you'll need to be strategic. LA is one of the most expensive cities in the U.S., and while $70K sounds solid, it often lands just under what's considered a "comfortable" income for solo renters.
Is Illinois as liberal as California?
Illinois is considered a blue state, one of the three largest states that consistently supports Democratic Party federal candidates alongside California and New York. Following the 2018 elections, all six statewide elected offices are held by a Democrat.
What is the best state to move to from Illinois?