Illinois vs Indiana: Which Is Better to Live In?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. Indiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.3 vs 100), has a 1.1-point lower tax burden. Indiana scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 2.
- Property crime rate is 30% lower in Indiana (1,052 vs. 1,508 in Illinois).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 30% lower in Indiana ($1,552 vs. $2,210 in Illinois).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 24% lower in Indiana ($70,704 vs. $93,442 in Illinois).
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IndianaIN | GapIL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -11.6 pts | 47.6#39 of 50 · C | 59.2#22 of 50 · B | -11.6 pts | — | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6.7 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +6.7 pts+7% | 100 | IN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$13,659 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | -$13,659 | -$11,758 | IN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$37,478 (+14%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$37,478+14% | $368,697 | IN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.13 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | +1.13 pts | 8.74% | IN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -3 (-1%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | -3-1% | 328 | Even |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,252 (+16%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$11,252+16% | $80,903 | IL |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -27,341 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -27,341 | -33 | IN |
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 Indiana better to live in?
Indiana scores higher overall: 59.2 to 47.6 out of 100, #22 of 50 against #39. Illinois leads 2 of 11 categories, Indiana leads 8, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IllinoisIL | IndianaIN | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -3.1 | 15% | 39.8#37 · C | 42.9#30 · C+ | -3.1 pts | IN |
| Safety12% of scoregap -6.5 | 12% | 73.4#22 · B | 79.9#11 · B+ | -6.5 pts | IN |
| Health12% of scoregap +18.5 | 12% | 58.8#24 · B | 40.3#39 · C | +18.5 pts | IL |
| Education12% of scoregap -7.6 | 12% | 65.9#13 · B+ | 73.5#7 · A | -7.6 pts | IN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -13.9 | 10% | 61.8#32 · C+ | 75.7#19 · B | -13.9 pts | IN |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -43.4 | 8% | 21.9#50 · F | 65.3#16 · B+ | -43.4 pts | IN |
| Growth7% of scoregap -22.7 | 7% | 20.0#45 · D | 42.7#21 · B | -22.7 pts | IN |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +12.1 | 7% | 54.2#17 · B+ | 42.1#44 · D | +12.1 pts | IL |
| Livability7% of scoregap +1.4 | 7% | 31.4#28 · C+ | 30.0#30 · C+ | +1.4 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -4 | 6% | 5.8#49 · F | 9.8#44 · D | -4 pts | IN |
| Environment4% of scoregap -7.4 | 4% | 31.0#39 · C | 38.4#28 · C+ | -7.4 pts | IN |
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 Indiana?
Indiana is cheaper: cost of living index 93.3 vs 100 in Illinois (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $13,659 more a year in Indiana after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IndianaIN | GapIL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6.7 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +6.7 pts+7% | 100 | IN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.3 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +8.3 pts+9% | 100 | IN |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.46¢ (+9%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | +1.46¢+9% | 17.84¢/kWh | IN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.24 (-2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | -$0.24-2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.11 (+4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.11+4% | $3.32/gal | IN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,140 (+12%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | +$2,140+12% | $15,633 | IN |
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 | IndianaIN | GapIL−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$6,108 | +$30,341costs $44,659 | +$36,449costs $38,552 | -$6,108 | IN |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$7,812 | +$21,123costs $53,877 | +$28,935costs $46,065 | -$7,812 | IN |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$13,659 | -$23,834costs $98,834 | -$10,175costs $85,175 | -$13,659 | IN |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$7,016 | +$34,016costs $40,985 | +$41,032costs $33,968 | -$7,016 | IN |
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 | IndianaIN | GapIL−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$6,550 | $24,335 | $17,785 | +$6,550 | IN |
| ChildcareGap +$4,280 | $39,202 | $34,922 | +$4,280 | IN |
| UtilitiesGap +$322 | $4,800 | $4,478 | +$322 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$935 | $11,691 | $10,756 | +$935 | IN |
| TransportationGap +$345 | $9,994 | $9,649 | +$345 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,227 | $8,812 | $7,585 | +$1,227 | IN |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Indiana?
Indiana collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 9.09% vs 10.22%. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IndianaIN | GapIL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.13 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | +1.13 pts | 8.74% | IN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.07 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | -0.07 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.34 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | +1.34 pts | 1.02% | IN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.96 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | +1.96 pts | 6.66% | IN |
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 Indiana?
Homes cost 14% more in Illinois: a typical home value of $297,573 in Illinois vs $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of income in Illinois and $70,704 in Indiana; the median household earns $83,211 and $71,959.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IndianaIN | GapIL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$37,478 (+14%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$37,478+14% | $368,697 | IN |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.3 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | +2.3 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$658 (+42%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | +$658+42% | $1,948 | IN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$22,738 (+32%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$22,738+32% | $100,006 | IN |
| Home value to income ratioGap 0x (0%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | 0x0% | 4.6x | Even |
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 | IN | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,531 | $1,338 |
| Income needed vs. median | +12% | -2% |
| Five-year change | +29.1% | +28.9% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Chicago | Indianapolis |
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 Indiana?
Illinois pays more: median household income $83,211 vs $71,959, with unemployment at 4.6% in Illinois and 3.7% in Indiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 0.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IndianaIN | GapIL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$11,252 (+16%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$11,252+16% | $80,903 | IL |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 3.95% | IN |
| GDP per capitaGap +$14,935 (+25%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | +$14,935+25% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.43 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | -0.43 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 | IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $184,326$182,483 in Chicago | $144,667$133,094 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,714$251,177 in Chicago | $233,118$214,469 in Indianapolis | IL |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,716$116,539 in Chicago | $102,621$94,411 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Civil Engineers | $110,197$109,095 in Chicago | $95,698$88,042 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $94,467$93,522 in Chicago | $80,465$74,028 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Software Developers | $146,220$144,758 in Chicago | $133,348$122,680 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Electricians | $77,683$76,906 in Chicago | $66,653$61,321 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Accountants & Auditors | $88,923$88,034 in Chicago | $79,365$73,016 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,487$117,302 in Chicago | $109,830$101,044 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,409$61,785 in Chicago | $54,926$50,532 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,004$74,254 in Chicago | $67,846$62,418 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $80,526$79,721 in Chicago | $74,259$68,318 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $63,082$62,451 in Chicago | $56,825$52,279 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Registered Nurses | $96,004$95,044 in Chicago | $90,771$83,509 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $64,823$64,175 in Chicago | $59,879$55,089 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,526$73,781 in Chicago | $70,046$64,442 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $53,463$52,928 in Chicago | $50,742$46,683 in Indianapolis | IL |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,241$35,879 in Chicago | $33,860$31,151 in Indianapolis | IL |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,610$60,004 in Chicago | $59,445$54,689 in Indianapolis | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $45,892$45,433 in Chicago | $45,954$42,278 in Indianapolis | 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 Indiana?
Violent crime is about the same: 251 per 100,000 residents in Illinois and 254 in Indiana (FBI). Property crime runs 1,508 and 1,052 per 100,000.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IndianaIN | GapIL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -3 (-1%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | -3-1% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +455 (+43%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +455+43% | 1,535 | IN |
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
- Carmel, IN51 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Illinois or Indiana?
Indiana scores higher for education (#7 of 50 vs #13), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 87.7%. Illinois scores higher for health (#24 vs #39); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Illinois and 75.4 in Indiana.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IndianaIN | GapIL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -0 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 34.03% | IL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.6 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 7.6% | IL |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | IN |
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
- Fishers, INeducation score 98
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, Indiana #7. Health: Illinois #24, Indiana #39.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Indiana, or from Indiana to Illinois?
12,570 households moved from Illinois to Indiana and 10,141 moved from Indiana to Illinois in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,429 households for Indiana. Movers to Indiana reported an average income of $67,368; movers to Illinois reported $56,026. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 25,727 people (±3,764) moving from Illinois to Indiana and 14,098 (±3,099) the other way, a net gain of about 11,629 people for Indiana beyond the margin of error.
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 | IndianaIN | GapIL−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +47,925 (+69%) | 117,297#12 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +47,925+69% | IL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +75,266 (+107%) | 145,906#46 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +75,266+107% | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -27,341 | -28,609#48 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -27,341 | IN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.0 | -2.2#47 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | -2.0 | IN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$14,471 (+22%) | $78,820#26 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$14,471+22% | IL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$36,629 (+54%) | $104,443#5 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$36,629+54% | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.9 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | -4.9 | IN |
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 Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IndianaIN | GapIL−IN | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +5 places | #23score 66.1 | #18score 71.9 | +5 places | IN |
| RetireesGap +25 places | #47score 46.6 | #22score 62.8 | +25 places | IN |
| Remote WorkersGap +26 places | #48score 31.9 | #22score 53.9 | +26 places | IN |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +19 places | #42score 41.6 | #23score 54.1 | +19 places | IN |
| Small BusinessGap +30 places | #48score 30.3 | #18score 63 | +30 places | IN |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +6 places | #39score 29.9 | #33score 34.9 | +6 places | IN |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIndiana (#18 vs #23)
- RetireesIndiana (#22 vs #47)
- Remote WorkersIndiana (#22 vs #48)
- Young ProfessionalsIndiana (#23 vs #42)
- Small BusinessIndiana (#18 vs #48)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsIndiana (#33 vs #39)
Which cities stand out in Illinois and Indiana?
Illinois has 29 tracked cities and Indiana has 21; the largest are Chicago and Indianapolis. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IllinoisIL | IndianaIN |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Chicago2,711,226 people | Indianapolis885,860 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Napervillescore 73.2 | Carmelscore 73.1 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Orland Park9 violent per 100K | Carmel51 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Decaturcost index 88.4 | Terre Hautecost index 87.8 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Skokiewalkability 16 of 20 | Bloomingtonwalkability 13.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Waukegancounty median AQI 39 | Bloomingtoncounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Fishers98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Napervillemedian income $155,105 | Carmelmedian income $141,505 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wheaton+1.3% growth | Westfield+5.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Illinois and Indiana compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Illinois carries BBB+ credit rating and Indiana AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IndianaIN | GapIL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +5 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | +5 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +14.3 (+85%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | +14.3+85% | 29.6 | IN |
| Public land shareGap +0.3 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.7 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | +3.7 min | 25.2 min | IN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +6.4 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +6.4 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap +4 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +4 pts | 12.28% | IL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.9 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 92.67% | IL |
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 | IndianaIN | GapIL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -35 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | -35 pts | 92.7 | IN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -11.6 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | -11.6 pts | 12.39% | IN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -37 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | -37 pts | 74.3% | IN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$4,410 (+188%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | +$4,410+188% | $3,506 | IN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.9 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | -7.9 pts | +4.66% | IN |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Illinois BBB+, Indiana AAA), 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 Indiana: 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 12 of 51, Indiana on 27, and 12 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IndianaIN | GapIL−IN | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,745,808 (+82%) · US 6.8 million | 12.7 million#6 of 50 | 7 million#17 of 50 | +5,745,808+82% | 6.8 million | IL |
| Median household incomeGap +$11,252 (+16%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $71,959#41 of 50 | +$11,252+16% | $80,903 | IL |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 3.7%#19 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 3.95% | IN |
| Population growthGap -0.43 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.56%#22 of 50 | -0.43 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$14,935 (+25%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $59,218#32 of 50 | +$14,935+25% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +2%#22 of 50 | -0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -3 (-1%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 254#21 of 50 | -3-1% | 328 | Even |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +455 (+43%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,052#8 of 50 | +455+43% | 1,535 | IN |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.4 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 87.7%#18 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -4 · US 237 | 236#33 of 50 | 240#9 of 50 | -4 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 278#13 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -6 · US 214 | 214#29 of 50 | 220#6 of 50 | -6 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -0 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 262#6 of 50 | -0 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.1 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 75.4#39 of 50 | +2.1 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.2 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 38.4%#45 of 50 | -4.2 pts | 34.03% | IL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.6 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 7.5%#26 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 7.6% | IL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$37,478 (+14%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $260,095#11 of 50 | +$37,478+14% | $368,697 | IN |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.3 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | +3%#17 of 50 | +2.3 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$658 (+42%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,552#18 of 50 | +$658+42% | $1,948 | IN |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$22,738 (+32%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $70,704#9 of 50 | +$22,738+32% | $100,006 | IN |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +6.7 pts (+7%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 93.3#18 of 50 | +6.7 pts+7% | 100 | IN |
| Home value to income ratioGap 0x (0%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 3.6x#7 of 50 | 0x0% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.46¢ (+9%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 16.23¢/kWh#32 of 50 | +1.46¢+9% | 17.84¢/kWh | IN |
| Residential natural gas priceGap -$0.24 (-2%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $11.49/Mcf#14 of 50 | -$0.24-2% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.11 (+4%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.07/gal#11 of 50 | +$0.11+4% | $3.32/gal | IN |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +8.3 pts (+9%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 95.5#12 of 50 | +8.3 pts+9% | 100 | IN |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,140 (+12%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $17,461#34 of 50 | +$2,140+12% | $15,633 | IN |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.13 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 9.09%#33 of 50 | +1.13 pts | 8.74% | IN |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -0.07 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 5.02%#23 of 50 | -0.07 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +1.34 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 0.77%#20 of 50 | +1.34 pts | 1.02% | IN |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.96 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 7%#26 of 50 | +1.96 pts | 6.66% | IN |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -35 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 100#9 of 50 | -35 pts | 92.7 | IN |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -11.6 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 12.5%#18 of 50 | -11.6 pts | 12.39% | IN |
| Pension funded ratioGap -37 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 82%#14 of 50 | -37 pts | 74.3% | IN |
| State debt per capitaGap +$4,410 (+188%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $2,340#17 of 50 | +$4,410+188% | $3,506 | IN |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -7.9 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +5.8%#17 of 50 | -7.9 pts | +4.66% | IN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+5%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 41#30 of 50 | +2 pts+5% | 38.8 | IN |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +5 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 15%#28 of 50 | +5 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +14.3 (+85%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 16.9#15 of 50 | +14.3+85% | 29.6 | IN |
| Public land shareGap +0.3 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 2.1%#44 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +3.7 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 24.6 min#22 of 50 | +3.7 min | 25.2 min | IN |
| Commuters using public transitGap +6.4 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 0.6%#36 of 50 | +6.4 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap +4 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 9.6%#39 of 50 | +4 pts | 12.28% | IL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.9 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 92%#36 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 92.67% | IL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +47,925 (+69%) · US 78,682 | 117,297#12 of 50 | 69,372#21 of 50 | +47,925+69% | 78,682 | IL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +75,266 (+107%) · US 78,715 | 145,906#46 of 50 | 70,640#32 of 50 | +75,266+107% | 78,715 | IN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -27,341 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | -1,268#32 of 50 | -27,341 | -33 | IN |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.0 · US +0.4 | -2.2#47 of 50 | -0.2#31 of 50 | -2.0 | +0.4 | IN |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$14,471 (+22%) · US $77,690 | $78,820#26 of 50 | $64,349#40 of 50 | +$14,471+22% | $77,690 | IL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$36,629 (+54%) · US $77,024 | $104,443#5 of 50 | $67,814#36 of 50 | +$36,629+54% | $77,024 | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.9 · US +1.1 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +1.8#20 of 50 | -4.9 | +1.1 | IN |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$13,659 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$10,175#23 of 50 | -$13,659 | -$11,758 | IN |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$6,108 · US +$31,418 | +$30,341#27 of 50 | +$36,449#10 of 50 | -$6,108 | +$31,418 | IN |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$7,016 · US +$35,970 | +$34,016#28 of 50 | +$41,032#9 of 50 | -$7,016 | +$35,970 | IN |
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 Indiana numbers say when read together.
Indiana ranks higher overall
Indiana leads 8 of the 11 categories to Illinois's 2, with 1 even; Illinois is ahead on health and transportation. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Illinois is ahead on 12 and Indiana on 27.
Indiana is cheaper day to day
Indiana's cost of living index is 93.3 against 100 in Illinois (US = 100). The typical home costs $297,573 in Illinois and $260,095 in Indiana. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 a year after typical costs in Illinois and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Indiana 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); Indiana collects 9.09% (middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes).
Illinois pays more
Median household income is $83,211 in Illinois and $71,959 in Indiana, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.7%. Violent crime runs 251 per 100,000 residents in Illinois and 254 in Indiana.
People move to Indiana on net
25,727 people moved to Indiana from Illinois in the latest Census release, against 14,098 going the other way.
Indiana fits families and retirees better
For families, Illinois ranks #23 of 50 and Indiana #18; for retirees, Illinois ranks #47 and Indiana #22.
Illinois vs Indiana: frequently asked questions
Is Illinois or Indiana better to live in?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Indiana #22 as of the latest release. Indiana is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 93.3 vs 100), has a 1.1-point lower tax burden. Indiana scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 2.
Is Illinois cheaper than Indiana?
Indiana is cheaper than Illinois: cost of living index 93.3 vs 100 (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 -$10,175 in Indiana. The typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $260,095 in Indiana.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Indiana?
Indiana has the lower tax burden: 9.09% 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%; Indiana's are 5.02%, 0.77% and 7%.
Is Illinois safer than Indiana?
Illinois and Indiana have similar violent crime rates: 251 vs 254 per 100,000 residents, per the FBI. Illinois ranks #20 of 50 for violent crime and Indiana #21. Property crime is 1,508 per 100,000 in Illinois and 1,052 in Indiana. The safest tracked cities are Orland Park, IL, and Carmel, IN.
Are homes more expensive in Illinois or Indiana?
Homes are 14% more expensive in Illinois: the typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $260,095 in Indiana. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of household income in Illinois and $70,704 in Indiana, against median incomes of $83,211 and $71,959.
Do people earn more in Illinois or Indiana?
Illinois pays more: median household income is $83,211 vs $71,959 in Indiana, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Illinois and 3.7% in Indiana. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 18 after adjusting for local costs and Indiana's in 0, with 2 even.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Indiana or from Indiana to Illinois?
12,570 households moved from Illinois to Indiana and 10,141 moved from Indiana to Illinois in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 2,429 households for Indiana. Movers to Indiana reported an average income of $67,368; movers to Illinois reported $56,026. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 25,727 people (±3,764) moving from Illinois to Indiana and 14,098 (±3,099) the other way, a net gain of about 11,629 people for Indiana beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Illinois or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for retirees: #22 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; Indiana has middle of the pack on income, property and sales taxes. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$34,016 left after typical costs in Illinois and +$41,032 in Indiana.
Which is better for families, Illinois or Indiana?
Indiana is the better fit for families: #18 of 50 on the families index vs #23 for Illinois. Center-based infant care costs $19,601 a year in Illinois and $17,461 in Indiana. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 87.7%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 after typical costs in Illinois and -$10,175 in Indiana.
Is Indiana better than Illinois?
Yes: Indiana ranks higher than Illinois overall, #22 of 50 vs #39, with a composite score of 59.2 to 47.6. Indiana leads 8 of 11 categories and Illinois leads 2, including health and transportation. 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 Indiana.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (12,570 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).