Illinois vs Colorado: Which Is Better to Live In?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Colorado #18 as of the latest release. Illinois is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 103.1), carries a 1.5-point higher tax burden, and has a 40% lower violent crime rate. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 2.
- Typical home value is 44% lower in Illinois ($297,573 vs. $532,748 in Colorado).
- Violent crime rate is 40% lower in Illinois (251 vs. 422 in Colorado).
- Property crime rate is 30% lower in Illinois (1,508 vs. 2,144 in Colorado).
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | GapIL−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -17.1 pts | 47.6#39 of 50 · C | 64.7#18 of 50 · B+ | -17.1 pts | — | CO |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.1 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | -3.1 pts-3% | 100 | IL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$11,496 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | +$11,496 | -$11,758 | IL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$235,175 (-44%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$235,175-44% | $368,697 | IL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.49 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | +1.49 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -171 (-40%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -171-40% | 328 | IL |
| Median household incomeGap -$13,902 (-14%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$13,902-14% | $80,903 | CO |
| High school graduation rateGap +5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | +5 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| Life expectancyGap -1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | -1.0 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -39,950 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -39,950 | -33 | CO |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Illinois or Colorado better to live in?
Colorado scores higher overall: 64.7 to 47.6 out of 100, #18 of 50 against #39. Illinois leads 2 of 11 categories, Colorado leads 7, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -20.5 | 15% | 39.8#37 · C | 60.3#9 · A | -20.5 pts | CO |
| Safety12% of scoregap +23 | 12% | 73.4#22 · B | 50.4#46 · D | +23 pts | IL |
| Health12% of scoregap -16.6 | 12% | 58.8#24 · B | 75.4#7 · A | -16.6 pts | CO |
| Education12% of scoregap +0.6 | 12% | 65.9#13 · B+ | 65.3#18 · B+ | +0.6 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +8.7 | 10% | 61.8#32 · C+ | 53.1#38 · C | +8.7 pts | IL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -38.5 | 8% | 21.9#50 · F | 60.4#22 · B | -38.5 pts | CO |
| Growth7% of scoregap -11 | 7% | 20.0#45 · D | 31.0#33 · C+ | -11 pts | CO |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -7.2 | 7% | 54.2#17 · B+ | 61.4#3 · A+ | -7.2 pts | CO |
| Livability7% of scoregap -2.8 | 7% | 31.4#28 · C+ | 34.2#24 · B | -2.8 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -38.7 | 6% | 5.8#49 · F | 44.5#9 · A | -38.7 pts | CO |
| Environment4% of scoregap -14.9 | 4% | 31.0#39 · C | 45.9#20 · B | -14.9 pts | CO |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Illinois cheaper than Colorado?
Illinois is cheaper: cost of living index 100 vs 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $11,496 more a year in Illinois after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | GapIL−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.1 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | -3.1 pts-3% | 100 | IL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +5.1 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 98.7#36 of 50 | +5.1 pts+5% | 100 | CO |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.84¢ (+12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | +1.84¢+12% | 17.84¢/kWh | CO |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.08 (+1%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | +$0.08+1% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.05 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | +$0.05+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,377 (-7%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $20,978#42 of 50 | -$1,377-7% | $15,633 | IL |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | GapIL−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$5,176 | +$30,341costs $44,659 | +$25,165costs $49,836 | +$5,176 | IL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$6,533 | +$21,123costs $53,877 | +$14,590costs $60,410 | +$6,533 | IL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$11,496 | -$23,834costs $98,834 | -$35,330costs $110,331 | +$11,496 | IL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$5,530 | +$34,016costs $40,985 | +$28,486costs $46,514 | +$5,530 | IL |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | GapIL−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$10,602 | $24,335 | $34,937 | -$10,602 | IL |
| ChildcareGap -$2,754 | $39,202 | $41,956 | -$2,754 | IL |
| UtilitiesGap -$149 | $4,800 | $4,949 | -$149 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$574 | $11,691 | $11,117 | +$574 | CO |
| TransportationGap +$157 | $9,994 | $9,837 | +$157 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,277 | $8,812 | $7,535 | +$1,277 | CO |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Colorado?
Colorado collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.73% vs 10.22%. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | GapIL−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.49 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | +1.49 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.55 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 4.4%#17 of 50 | +0.55 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.62 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.49%#3 of 50 | +1.62 pts | 1.02% | CO |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.07 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 7.89%#35 of 50 | +1.07 pts | 6.66% | CO |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Illinois or Colorado?
Homes cost 79% more in Colorado: a typical home value of $297,573 in Illinois vs $532,748 in Colorado. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of income in Illinois and $138,758 in Colorado; the median household earns $83,211 and $97,113.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | GapIL−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$235,175 (-44%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$235,175-44% | $368,697 | IL |
| Home value change, one yearGap +6.7 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +6.7 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$288 (+15%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,922#34 of 50 | +$288+15% | $1,948 | CO |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$45,316 (-33%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $138,758#43 of 50 | -$45,316-33% | $100,006 | IL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.9x (-35%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 5.5x#40 of 50 | -1.9x-35% | 4.6x | IL |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| IL | CO | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,531 | $2,741 |
| Income needed vs. median | +12% | +43% |
| Five-year change | +29.1% | +6.8% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Chicago | Denver |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Illinois or Colorado?
Colorado pays more: median household income $97,113 vs $83,211, with unemployment at 4.6% in Illinois and 4% in Colorado. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 11 after adjusting for local costs and Colorado's in 2.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | GapIL−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$13,902 (-14%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$13,902-14% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 4%#26 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | CO |
| GDP per capitaGap -$871 (-1%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $75,024#7 of 50 | -$871-1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +2.6%#11 of 50 | -1 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Population growthGap -0.27 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.4%#28 of 50 | -0.27 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | IL | CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $184,326$182,483 in Chicago | $151,994$153,514 in Denver | IL |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $94,467$93,522 in Chicago | $83,477$84,312 in Denver | IL |
| Civil Engineers | $110,197$109,095 in Chicago | $101,074$102,085 in Denver | IL |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,716$116,539 in Chicago | $109,441$110,535 in Denver | IL |
| Electricians | $77,683$76,906 in Chicago | $70,316$71,019 in Denver | IL |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,526$73,781 in Chicago | $67,748$68,425 in Denver | IL |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $63,082$62,451 in Chicago | $56,578$57,144 in Denver | IL |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,714$251,177 in Chicago | $247,948$250,427 in Denver | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $64,823$64,175 in Chicago | $59,367$59,961 in Denver | IL |
| Software Developers | $146,220$144,758 in Chicago | $150,821$152,329 in Denver | CO |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,004$74,254 in Chicago | $71,333$72,046 in Denver | IL |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,487$117,302 in Chicago | $115,156$116,308 in Denver | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $45,892$45,433 in Chicago | $48,799$49,287 in Denver | CO |
| Accountants & Auditors | $88,923$88,034 in Chicago | $86,184$87,046 in Denver | IL |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,409$61,785 in Chicago | $59,750$60,347 in Denver | IL |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,610$60,004 in Chicago | $61,912$62,531 in Denver | Even |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $80,526$79,721 in Chicago | $79,322$80,115 in Denver | Even |
| Registered Nurses | $96,004$95,044 in Chicago | $97,192$98,164 in Denver | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $53,463$52,928 in Chicago | $54,050$54,590 in Denver | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,241$35,879 in Chicago | $36,415$36,779 in Denver | Even |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Illinois safer than Colorado?
Illinois is safer: 251 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado (FBI). Property crime runs 1,508 and 2,144 per 100,000.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | GapIL−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -171 (-40%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -171-40% | 328 | IL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -636 (-30%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 2,144#49 of 50 | -636-30% | 1,535 | IL |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Orland Park, IL9 violent per 100K
- Castle Rock, CO30 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Illinois or Colorado?
Illinois and Colorado are close on education (#13 and #18 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 82.3%. Colorado scores higher for health (#7 vs #24); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Illinois and 78.5 in Colorado.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | GapIL−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 278#15 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 265#3 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | +5 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| Life expectancyGap -1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | -1.0 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap +9.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 25%#1 of 50 | +9.2 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 7.9%#30 of 50 | -1 pts | 7.6% | IL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+2%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 42#35 of 50 | +1 pts+2% | 38.8 | Even |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- No city school data
- Pueblo, COeducation score 93
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Illinois #13, Colorado #18. Health: Illinois #24, Colorado #7.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Colorado, or from Colorado to Illinois?
4,686 households moved from Illinois to Colorado and 3,198 moved from Colorado to Illinois in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,488 households for Colorado. Movers to Colorado reported an average income of $102,087; movers to Illinois reported $90,899. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,552 people (±1,348) moving from Illinois to Colorado and 3,917 (±1,424) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | GapIL−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap -4,093 (-3%) | 117,297#12 of 50 | 121,390#11 of 50 | -4,093-3% | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +35,857 (+33%) | 145,906#46 of 50 | 110,049#39 of 50 | +35,857+33% | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -39,950 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -39,950 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.1 | -2.2#47 of 50 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -4.1 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,712 (-4%) | $78,820#26 of 50 | $82,532#16 of 50 | -$3,712-4% | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$19,903 (+24%) | $104,443#5 of 50 | $84,540#13 of 50 | +$19,903+24% | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.1 | -3.1#43 of 50 | -2.0#42 of 50 | -1.1 | CO |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Illinois or Colorado?
Colorado is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | GapIL−CO | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +1 places | #23score 66.1 | #22score 66.1 | +1 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +31 places | #47score 46.6 | #16score 67 | +31 places | CO |
| Remote WorkersGap +25 places | #48score 31.9 | #23score 53.8 | +25 places | CO |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +22 places | #42score 41.6 | #20score 56.7 | +22 places | CO |
| Small BusinessGap +28 places | #48score 30.3 | #20score 59.8 | +28 places | CO |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +24 places | #39score 29.9 | #15score 55.8 | +24 places | CO |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#23 vs #22)
- RetireesColorado (#16 vs #47)
- Remote WorkersColorado (#23 vs #48)
- Young ProfessionalsColorado (#20 vs #42)
- Small BusinessColorado (#20 vs #48)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsColorado (#15 vs #39)
Which cities stand out in Illinois and Colorado?
Illinois has 29 tracked cities and Colorado has 20; the largest are Chicago and Denver. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Chicago2,711,226 people | Denver718,877 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Napervillescore 73.2 | Broomfieldscore 68.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Orland Park9 violent per 100K | Castle Rock30 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Decaturcost index 88.4 | Pueblocost index 91.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Skokiewalkability 16 of 20 | Boulderwalkability 14.6 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Waukegancounty median AQI 39 | Pueblocounty median AQI 45 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Pueblo93% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Napervillemedian income $155,105 | Highlands Ranchmedian income $159,307 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wheaton+1.3% growth | Grand Junction+1.8% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Illinois and Colorado compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Illinois carries BBB+ credit rating and Colorado AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | GapIL−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -19 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 39%#14 of 50 | -19 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.3 (+74%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 17.9#16 of 50 | +13.3+74% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap -33.8 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 36.2%#9 of 50 | -33.8 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.6 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | +2.6 min | 25.2 min | CO |
| Commuters using public transitGap +5.3 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 1.7%#18 of 50 | +5.3 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap -6.3 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 19.9%#1 of 50 | -6.3 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 94.9%#5 of 50 | -2 pts | 92.67% | CO |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | GapIL−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -30 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 95#24 of 50 | -30 pts | 92.7 | CO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -12.3 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 13.2%#14 of 50 | -12.3 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap -22 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 67%#37 of 50 | -22 pts | 74.3% | CO |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,630 (+116%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $3,120#29 of 50 | +$3,630+116% | $3,506 | CO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5.6 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +3.5%#34 of 50 | -5.6 pts | +4.66% | CO |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Illinois BBB+, Colorado AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Illinois vs Colorado: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Illinois is ahead on 15 of 51, Colorado on 27, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IllinoisIL | ColoradoCO | GapIL−CO | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +6,706,580 (+112%) · US 6.8 million | 12.7 million#6 of 50 | 6 million#20 of 50 | +6,706,580+112% | 6.8 million | IL |
| Median household incomeGap -$13,902 (-14%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $97,113#8 of 50 | -$13,902-14% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 4%#26 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 3.95% | CO |
| Population growthGap -0.27 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.4%#28 of 50 | -0.27 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$871 (-1%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $75,024#7 of 50 | -$871-1% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +2.6%#11 of 50 | -1 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -171 (-40%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 422#43 of 50 | -171-40% | 328 | IL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -636 (-30%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 2,144#49 of 50 | -636-30% | 1,535 | IL |
| High school graduation rateGap +5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 82.3%#40 of 50 | +5 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 237 | 236#33 of 50 | 239#18 of 50 | -3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 278#15 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -7 · US 214 | 214#29 of 50 | 221#5 of 50 | -7 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 265#3 of 50 | -3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 78.5#11 of 50 | -1.0 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap +9.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 25%#1 of 50 | +9.2 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 7.9%#30 of 50 | -1 pts | 7.6% | IL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$235,175 (-44%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $532,748#44 of 50 | -$235,175-44% | $368,697 | IL |
| Home value change, one yearGap +6.7 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +6.7 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$288 (+15%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,922#34 of 50 | +$288+15% | $1,948 | CO |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$45,316 (-33%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $138,758#43 of 50 | -$45,316-33% | $100,006 | IL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -3.1 pts (-3%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 103.1#39 of 50 | -3.1 pts-3% | 100 | IL |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1.9x (-35%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 5.5x#40 of 50 | -1.9x-35% | 4.6x | IL |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.84¢ (+12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | +1.84¢+12% | 17.84¢/kWh | CO |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.08 (+1%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | +$0.08+1% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.05 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | +$0.05+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +5.1 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 98.7#36 of 50 | +5.1 pts+5% | 100 | CO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$1,377 (-7%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $20,978#42 of 50 | -$1,377-7% | $15,633 | IL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.49 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.73%#25 of 50 | +1.49 pts | 8.74% | CO |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +0.55 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 4.4%#17 of 50 | +0.55 pts | 5.46% | CO |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.62 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.49%#3 of 50 | +1.62 pts | 1.02% | CO |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.07 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 7.89%#35 of 50 | +1.07 pts | 6.66% | CO |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -30 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 95#24 of 50 | -30 pts | 92.7 | CO |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -12.3 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 13.2%#14 of 50 | -12.3 pts | 12.39% | CO |
| Pension funded ratioGap -22 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 67%#37 of 50 | -22 pts | 74.3% | CO |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,630 (+116%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $3,120#29 of 50 | +$3,630+116% | $3,506 | CO |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5.6 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +3.5%#34 of 50 | -5.6 pts | +4.66% | CO |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+2%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 42#35 of 50 | +1 pts+2% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -19 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 39%#14 of 50 | -19 pts | 29.34% | CO |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.3 (+74%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 17.9#16 of 50 | +13.3+74% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap -33.8 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 36.2%#9 of 50 | -33.8 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +2.6 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | +2.6 min | 25.2 min | CO |
| Commuters using public transitGap +5.3 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 1.7%#18 of 50 | +5.3 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap -6.3 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 19.9%#1 of 50 | -6.3 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 94.9%#5 of 50 | -2 pts | 92.67% | CO |
| Households moving inIRSGap -4,093 (-3%) · US 78,682 | 117,297#12 of 50 | 121,390#11 of 50 | -4,093-3% | 78,682 | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +35,857 (+33%) · US 78,715 | 145,906#46 of 50 | 110,049#39 of 50 | +35,857+33% | 78,715 | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -39,950 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | +11,341#8 of 50 | -39,950 | -33 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.1 · US +0.4 | -2.2#47 of 50 | +1.9#11 of 50 | -4.1 | +0.4 | CO |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,712 (-4%) · US $77,690 | $78,820#26 of 50 | $82,532#16 of 50 | -$3,712-4% | $77,690 | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$19,903 (+24%) · US $77,024 | $104,443#5 of 50 | $84,540#13 of 50 | +$19,903+24% | $77,024 | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.1 · US +1.1 | -3.1#43 of 50 | -2.0#42 of 50 | -1.1 | +1.1 | CO |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$11,496 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | +$11,496 | -$11,758 | IL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$5,176 · US +$31,418 | +$30,341#27 of 50 | +$25,165#39 of 50 | +$5,176 | +$31,418 | IL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$5,530 · US +$35,970 | +$34,016#28 of 50 | +$28,486#39 of 50 | +$5,530 | +$35,970 | IL |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Illinois and Colorado numbers say when read together.
Colorado ranks higher overall
Colorado leads 7 of the 11 categories to Illinois's 2, with 2 even; Illinois is ahead on safety and affordability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Illinois is ahead on 15 and Colorado on 27.
Illinois is cheaper day to day
Illinois's cost of living index is 100 against 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). The typical home costs $297,573 in Illinois and $532,748 in Colorado. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 a year after typical costs in Illinois and -$35,330 in Colorado.
Colorado takes a smaller share in taxes
Illinois collects 10.22% of income in state and local taxes (high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack); Colorado collects 8.73% (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Colorado pays more
Median household income is $83,211 in Illinois and $97,113 in Colorado, with unemployment at 4.6% and 4%. Violent crime runs 251 per 100,000 residents in Illinois and 422 in Colorado.
Moves between the two run about even
4,552 people moved from Illinois to Colorado and 3,917 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Colorado is the better fit for retirees
For families, Illinois ranks #23 of 50 and Colorado #22; for retirees, Illinois ranks #47 and Colorado #16.
Illinois vs Colorado: frequently asked questions
Is Illinois or Colorado better to live in?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Colorado #18 as of the latest release. Illinois is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 103.1), carries a 1.5-point higher tax burden, and has a 40% lower violent crime rate. Colorado scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Illinois cheaper than Colorado?
Illinois is cheaper than Colorado: cost of living index 100 vs 103.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$23,834 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Illinois, and -$35,330 in Colorado. The typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $532,748 in Colorado.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Colorado?
Colorado has the lower tax burden: 8.73% of income in state and local taxes vs 10.22% in Illinois. Illinois's top income tax rate is 4.95%, its effective property tax rate 2.11% and its combined sales tax 8.96%; Colorado's are 4.4%, 0.49% and 7.89%.
Is Illinois safer than Colorado?
Illinois is safer: 251 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado, per the FBI. Illinois ranks #20 of 50 for violent crime and Colorado #43. Property crime is 1,508 per 100,000 in Illinois and 2,144 in Colorado. The safest tracked cities are Orland Park, IL, and Castle Rock, CO.
Are homes more expensive in Illinois or Colorado?
Homes are 79% more expensive in Colorado: the typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $532,748 in Colorado. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of household income in Illinois and $138,758 in Colorado, against median incomes of $83,211 and $97,113.
Do people earn more in Illinois or Colorado?
Colorado pays more: median household income is $97,113 vs $83,211 in Illinois, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Illinois and 4% in Colorado. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 11 after adjusting for local costs and Colorado's in 2, with 7 even.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Colorado or from Colorado to Illinois?
4,686 households moved from Illinois to Colorado and 3,198 moved from Colorado to Illinois in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 1,488 households for Colorado. Movers to Colorado reported an average income of $102,087; movers to Illinois reported $90,899. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 4,552 people (±1,348) moving from Illinois to Colorado and 3,917 (±1,424) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Illinois or Colorado?
Colorado is the better fit for retirees: #16 of 50 on the retiree index vs #47 for Illinois. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$34,016 left after typical costs in Illinois and +$28,486 in Colorado.
Which is better for families, Illinois or Colorado?
Illinois and Colorado are close for families: #23 and #22 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $19,601 a year in Illinois and $20,978 in Colorado. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 82.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 after typical costs in Illinois and -$35,330 in Colorado.
Is Colorado better than Illinois?
Yes: Colorado ranks higher than Illinois overall, #18 of 50 vs #39, with a composite score of 64.7 to 47.6. Colorado leads 7 of 11 categories and Illinois leads 2, including safety and affordability. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Illinois vs Colorado.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor (4,686 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).