Illinois vs Iowa: Which Is Better to Live In?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Iowa #14 as of the latest release. Iowa is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 100), has a 1-point lower tax burden, and has a 7% lower violent crime rate. Iowa scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 1.
- Typical rent, largest metro is 41% lower in Iowa ($1,297 vs. $2,210 in Illinois).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 32% lower in Iowa ($13,253 vs. $19,601 in Illinois).
- Income needed to buy the typical home is 25% lower in Iowa ($70,437 vs. $93,442 in Illinois).
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IowaIA | GapIL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -21.6 pts | 47.6#39 of 50 · C | 69.2#14 of 50 · B+ | -21.6 pts | — | IA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +12.2 pts (+14%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +12.2 pts+14% | 100 | IA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$21,517 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$2,317#13 of 50 | -$21,517 | -$11,758 | IA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$58,026 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$58,026+24% | $368,697 | IA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.99 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | +0.99 pts | 8.74% | IA |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +17 (+7%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | +17+7% | 328 | IA |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,710 (+10%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | +$7,710+10% | $80,903 | IL |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | -0.4 yrs | 76.9 | IA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -26,195 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | -26,195 | -33 | IA |
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 Iowa better to live in?
Iowa scores higher overall: 69.2 to 47.6 out of 100, #14 of 50 against #39. Illinois leads 1 of 11 categories, Iowa leads 8, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IllinoisIL | IowaIA | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -9 | 15% | 39.8#37 · C | 48.8#24 · B | -9 pts | IA |
| Safety12% of scoregap -6.4 | 12% | 73.4#22 · B | 79.8#12 · B+ | -6.4 pts | IA |
| Health12% of scoregap -1.5 | 12% | 58.8#24 · B | 60.3#20 · B | -1.5 pts | Even |
| Education12% of scoregap -3.1 | 12% | 65.9#13 · B+ | 69.0#9 · A | -3.1 pts | IA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -24.5 | 10% | 61.8#32 · C+ | 86.3#5 · A+ | -24.5 pts | IA |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -44.1 | 8% | 21.9#50 · F | 66.0#14 · B+ | -44.1 pts | IA |
| Growth7% of scoregap -15 | 7% | 20.0#45 · D | 35.0#29 · C+ | -15 pts | IA |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -1.4 | 7% | 54.2#17 · B+ | 55.6#13 · B+ | -1.4 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +3.8 | 7% | 31.4#28 · C+ | 27.6#34 · C+ | +3.8 pts | IL |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -16.6 | 6% | 5.8#49 · F | 22.4#28 · C+ | -16.6 pts | IA |
| Environment4% of scoregap -15.7 | 4% | 31.0#39 · C | 46.7#17 · B+ | -15.7 pts | IA |
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 Iowa?
Iowa is cheaper: cost of living index 87.8 vs 100 in Illinois (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $21,517 more a year in Iowa after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IowaIA | GapIL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +12.2 pts (+14%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +12.2 pts+14% | 100 | IA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.1 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 93.7#2 of 50 | +10.1 pts+11% | 100 | IA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.97¢ (+29%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 13.72¢/kWh#16 of 50 | +3.97¢+29% | 17.84¢/kWh | IA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.64 (+6%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $10.61/Mcf#7 of 50 | +$0.64+6% | $15.83/Mcf | IA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.06 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.12/gal#18 of 50 | +$0.06+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,348 (+48%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $13,253#17 of 50 | +$6,348+48% | $15,633 | IA |
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 | IowaIA | GapIL−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$5,495 | +$30,341costs $44,659 | +$35,836costs $39,165 | -$5,495 | IA |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$7,195 | +$21,123costs $53,877 | +$28,318costs $46,683 | -$7,195 | IA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$21,517 | -$23,834costs $98,834 | -$2,317costs $77,317 | -$21,517 | IA |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$6,450 | +$34,016costs $40,985 | +$40,466costs $34,534 | -$6,450 | IA |
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 | IowaIA | GapIL−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$6,230 | $24,335 | $18,105 | +$6,230 | IA |
| ChildcareGap +$12,696 | $39,202 | $26,506 | +$12,696 | IA |
| UtilitiesGap +$586 | $4,800 | $4,214 | +$586 | IA |
| GroceriesGap +$1,138 | $11,691 | $10,553 | +$1,138 | IA |
| TransportationGap +$188 | $9,994 | $9,806 | +$188 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$679 | $8,812 | $8,133 | +$679 | IA |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Iowa?
Iowa collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 9.23% vs 10.22%. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Iowa has low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IowaIA | GapIL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.99 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | +0.99 pts | 8.74% | IA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.15 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 3.8%#13 of 50 | +1.15 pts | 5.46% | IA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.62 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 1.49%#41 of 50 | +0.62 pts | 1.02% | IA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.02 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 6.94%#22 of 50 | +2.02 pts | 6.66% | IA |
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 Iowa?
Homes cost 24% more in Illinois: a typical home value of $297,573 in Illinois vs $239,547 in Iowa. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of income in Illinois and $70,437 in Iowa; the median household earns $83,211 and $75,501.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IowaIA | GapIL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$58,026 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$58,026+24% | $368,697 | IA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.8 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | +3.5%#11 of 50 | +1.8 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$913 (+70%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,297#6 of 50 | +$913+70% | $1,948 | IA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$23,005 (+33%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $70,437#8 of 50 | +$23,005+33% | $100,006 | IA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+12%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 3.2x#2 of 50 | +0.4x+12% | 4.6x | IA |
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 | IA | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,531 | $1,232 |
| Income needed vs. median | +12% | -7% |
| Five-year change | +29.1% | +26.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | Chicago | Des Moines |
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 Iowa?
Illinois pays more: median household income $83,211 vs $75,501, with unemployment at 4.6% in Illinois and 3.5% in Iowa. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Iowa's in 0.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IowaIA | GapIL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$7,710 (+10%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | +$7,710+10% | $80,903 | IL |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 3.5%#15 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | IA |
| GDP per capitaGap +$9,389 (+14%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $64,764#21 of 50 | +$9,389+14% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +1.2%#43 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.12 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.25%#37 of 50 | -0.12 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 | IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $184,326$182,483 in Chicago | $143,340$127,573 in Des Moines | IL |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $94,467$93,522 in Chicago | $73,833$65,711 in Des Moines | IL |
| Electricians | $77,683$76,906 in Chicago | $65,071$57,913 in Des Moines | IL |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,716$116,539 in Chicago | $105,399$93,805 in Des Moines | IL |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,714$251,177 in Chicago | $241,727$215,137 in Des Moines | IL |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,487$117,302 in Chicago | $107,679$95,834 in Des Moines | IL |
| Civil Engineers | $110,197$109,095 in Chicago | $100,113$89,101 in Des Moines | IL |
| Accountants & Auditors | $88,923$88,034 in Chicago | $80,166$71,348 in Des Moines | IL |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $64,823$64,175 in Chicago | $56,506$50,290 in Des Moines | IL |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,004$74,254 in Chicago | $67,263$59,864 in Des Moines | IL |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $63,082$62,451 in Chicago | $56,109$49,937 in Des Moines | IL |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,409$61,785 in Chicago | $56,442$50,233 in Des Moines | IL |
| Registered Nurses | $96,004$95,044 in Chicago | $90,444$80,495 in Des Moines | IL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $80,526$79,721 in Chicago | $75,354$67,065 in Des Moines | IL |
| Software Developers | $146,220$144,758 in Chicago | $141,671$126,087 in Des Moines | IL |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,526$73,781 in Chicago | $70,096$62,385 in Des Moines | IL |
| Construction Laborers | $45,892$45,433 in Chicago | $43,482$38,699 in Des Moines | IL |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $53,463$52,928 in Chicago | $51,294$45,652 in Des Moines | IL |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,610$60,004 in Chicago | $58,447$52,018 in Des Moines | IL |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,241$35,879 in Chicago | $35,545$31,635 in Des Moines | 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 Iowa?
Iowa is safer: 234 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 251 in Illinois (FBI). Property crime runs 1,508 and 1,172 per 100,000.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IowaIA | GapIL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +17 (+7%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | +17+7% | 328 | IA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +336 (+29%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,172#11 of 50 | +336+29% | 1,535 | IA |
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
- Bettendorf, IA94 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Illinois or Iowa?
Iowa scores higher for education (#9 of 50 vs #13), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 89.9%. They are close on health (#24 and #20); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Illinois and 77.9 in Iowa.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IowaIA | GapIL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 275#23 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 261#10 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| Life expectancyGap -0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | -0.4 yrs | 76.9 | IA |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.4 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 36.6%#34 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 34.03% | IL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.5 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 5.4%#11 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 7.6% | IA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 43#39 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 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
- Urbandale, IAeducation score 98.3
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, Iowa #9. Health: Illinois #24, Iowa #20.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Iowa, or from Iowa to Illinois?
5,280 households moved from Illinois to Iowa and 4,586 moved from Iowa to Illinois in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 694 households for Iowa. Movers to Iowa reported an average income of $58,067; movers to Illinois reported $53,660. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 10,691 people (±2,090) moving from Illinois to Iowa and 6,721 (±1,744) the other way, a net gain of about 3,970 people for Iowa 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 | IowaIA | GapIL−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +83,753 (+250%) | 117,297#12 of 50 | 33,544#35 of 50 | +83,753+250% | IL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +109,948 (+306%) | 145,906#46 of 50 | 35,958#18 of 50 | +109,948+306% | IA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -26,195 | -28,609#48 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | -26,195 | IA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.5 | -2.2#47 of 50 | -0.7#34 of 50 | -1.5 | IA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$17,212 (+28%) | $78,820#26 of 50 | $61,608#43 of 50 | +$17,212+28% | IL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$39,560 (+61%) | $104,443#5 of 50 | $64,883#41 of 50 | +$39,560+61% | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.8 | -3.1#43 of 50 | -0.3#35 of 50 | -2.8 | IA |
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 Iowa?
Iowa 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 | IowaIA | GapIL−IA | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +20 places | #23score 66.1 | #3score 81.7 | +20 places | IA |
| RetireesGap +39 places | #47score 46.6 | #8score 77.8 | +39 places | IA |
| Remote WorkersGap +38 places | #48score 31.9 | #10score 63.9 | +38 places | IA |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +27 places | #42score 41.6 | #15score 62.7 | +27 places | IA |
| Small BusinessGap +34 places | #48score 30.3 | #14score 65.8 | +34 places | IA |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +21 places | #39score 29.9 | #18score 52.5 | +21 places | IA |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIowa (#3 vs #23)
- RetireesIowa (#8 vs #47)
- Remote WorkersIowa (#10 vs #48)
- Young ProfessionalsIowa (#15 vs #42)
- Small BusinessIowa (#14 vs #48)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsIowa (#18 vs #39)
Which cities stand out in Illinois and Iowa?
Illinois has 29 tracked cities and Iowa has 20; the largest are Chicago and Des Moines. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IllinoisIL | IowaIA |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Chicago2,711,226 people | Des Moines212,421 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Napervillescore 73.2 | Waukeescore 70.9 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Orland Park9 violent per 100K | Bettendorf94 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Decaturcost index 88.4 | Marshalltowncost index 84.1 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Skokiewalkability 16 of 20 | Fort Dodgewalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Waukegancounty median AQI 39 | Iowa Citycounty median AQI 37 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Urbandale98.3% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Napervillemedian income $155,105 | Urbandalemedian income $112,795 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wheaton+1.3% growth | Waukee+9.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Illinois and Iowa compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Illinois carries BBB+ credit rating and Iowa AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IowaIA | GapIL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -47 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 67%#6 of 50 | -47 pts | 29.34% | IA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -7.1 (-19%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 38.3#36 of 50 | -7.1-19% | 29.6 | IL |
| Public land shareGap +1.3 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 1.1%#48 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 17.16% | IL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.9 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 20.4 min#8 of 50 | +7.9 min | 25.2 min | IA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +6.2 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 0.8%#31 of 50 | +6.2 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.7 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 9.9%#36 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 12.28% | IL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 90.7%#45 of 50 | +2.2 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 | IowaIA | GapIL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -35 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 100#6 of 50 | -35 pts | 92.7 | IA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -9.7 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 10.6%#23 of 50 | -9.7 pts | 12.39% | IA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -42 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 87%#9 of 50 | -42 pts | 74.3% | IA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$4,100 (+155%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $2,650#22 of 50 | +$4,100+155% | $3,506 | IA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -9.2 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +7.1%#10 of 50 | -9.2 pts | +4.66% | IA |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Illinois BBB+, Iowa 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 Iowa: 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 11 of 51, Iowa on 32, and 8 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IllinoisIL | IowaIA | GapIL−IA | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +9,480,754 (+293%) · US 6.8 million | 12.7 million#6 of 50 | 3.2 million#32 of 50 | +9,480,754+293% | 6.8 million | IL |
| Median household incomeGap +$7,710 (+10%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $75,501#34 of 50 | +$7,710+10% | $80,903 | IL |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 3.5%#15 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | IA |
| Population growthGap -0.12 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.25%#37 of 50 | -0.12 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$9,389 (+14%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $64,764#21 of 50 | +$9,389+14% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.4 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +1.2%#43 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +17 (+7%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 234#16 of 50 | +17+7% | 328 | IA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +336 (+29%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,172#11 of 50 | +336+29% | 1,535 | IA |
| High school graduation rateGap -2.6 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 89.9%#6 of 50 | -2.6 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 236#33 of 50 | 237#30 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 275#23 of 50 | +3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -0 · US 214 | 214#29 of 50 | 215#25 of 50 | -0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 261#10 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.4 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 77.9#18 of 50 | -0.4 yrs | 76.9 | IA |
| Adults with obesityGap -2.4 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 36.6%#34 of 50 | -2.4 pts | 34.03% | IL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.5 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 5.4%#11 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 7.6% | IA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$58,026 (+24%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $239,547#7 of 50 | +$58,026+24% | $368,697 | IA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.8 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | +3.5%#11 of 50 | +1.8 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$913 (+70%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,297#6 of 50 | +$913+70% | $1,948 | IA |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$23,005 (+33%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $70,437#8 of 50 | +$23,005+33% | $100,006 | IA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +12.2 pts (+14%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 87.8#3 of 50 | +12.2 pts+14% | 100 | IA |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+12%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 3.2x#2 of 50 | +0.4x+12% | 4.6x | IA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +3.97¢ (+29%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 13.72¢/kWh#16 of 50 | +3.97¢+29% | 17.84¢/kWh | IA |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.64 (+6%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $10.61/Mcf#7 of 50 | +$0.64+6% | $15.83/Mcf | IA |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.06 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.12/gal#18 of 50 | +$0.06+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +10.1 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 93.7#2 of 50 | +10.1 pts+11% | 100 | IA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,348 (+48%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $13,253#17 of 50 | +$6,348+48% | $15,633 | IA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +0.99 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 9.23%#34 of 50 | +0.99 pts | 8.74% | IA |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +1.15 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 3.8%#13 of 50 | +1.15 pts | 5.46% | IA |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.62 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 1.49%#41 of 50 | +0.62 pts | 1.02% | IA |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.02 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 6.94%#22 of 50 | +2.02 pts | 6.66% | IA |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -35 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 100#6 of 50 | -35 pts | 92.7 | IA |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -9.7 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 10.6%#23 of 50 | -9.7 pts | 12.39% | IA |
| Pension funded ratioGap -42 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 87%#9 of 50 | -42 pts | 74.3% | IA |
| State debt per capitaGap +$4,100 (+155%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $2,650#22 of 50 | +$4,100+155% | $3,506 | IA |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -9.2 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +7.1%#10 of 50 | -9.2 pts | +4.66% | IA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap 0 pts (0%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 43#39 of 50 | 0 pts0% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -47 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 67%#6 of 50 | -47 pts | 29.34% | IA |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -7.1 (-19%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 38.3#36 of 50 | -7.1-19% | 29.6 | IL |
| Public land shareGap +1.3 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 1.1%#48 of 50 | +1.3 pts | 17.16% | IL |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.9 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 20.4 min#8 of 50 | +7.9 min | 25.2 min | IA |
| Commuters using public transitGap +6.2 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 0.8%#31 of 50 | +6.2 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.7 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 9.9%#36 of 50 | +3.7 pts | 12.28% | IL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.2 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 90.7%#45 of 50 | +2.2 pts | 92.67% | IL |
| Households moving inIRSGap +83,753 (+250%) · US 78,682 | 117,297#12 of 50 | 33,544#35 of 50 | +83,753+250% | 78,682 | IL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +109,948 (+306%) · US 78,715 | 145,906#46 of 50 | 35,958#18 of 50 | +109,948+306% | 78,715 | IA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -26,195 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | -2,414#35 of 50 | -26,195 | -33 | IA |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.5 · US +0.4 | -2.2#47 of 50 | -0.7#34 of 50 | -1.5 | +0.4 | IA |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$17,212 (+28%) · US $77,690 | $78,820#26 of 50 | $61,608#43 of 50 | +$17,212+28% | $77,690 | IL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$39,560 (+61%) · US $77,024 | $104,443#5 of 50 | $64,883#41 of 50 | +$39,560+61% | $77,024 | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.8 · US +1.1 | -3.1#43 of 50 | -0.3#35 of 50 | -2.8 | +1.1 | IA |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$21,517 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$2,317#13 of 50 | -$21,517 | -$11,758 | IA |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$5,495 · US +$31,418 | +$30,341#27 of 50 | +$35,836#12 of 50 | -$5,495 | +$31,418 | IA |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$6,450 · US +$35,970 | +$34,016#28 of 50 | +$40,466#12 of 50 | -$6,450 | +$35,970 | IA |
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 Iowa numbers say when read together.
Iowa ranks higher overall
Iowa leads 8 of the 11 categories to Illinois's 1, with 2 even; Illinois is ahead on livability. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Illinois is ahead on 11 and Iowa on 32.
Iowa is cheaper day to day
Iowa's cost of living index is 87.8 against 100 in Illinois (US = 100). The typical home costs $297,573 in Illinois and $239,547 in Iowa. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 a year after typical costs in Illinois and -$2,317 in Iowa.
Iowa 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); Iowa collects 9.23% (low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack).
Illinois pays more
Median household income is $83,211 in Illinois and $75,501 in Iowa, with unemployment at 4.6% and 3.5%. Violent crime runs 251 per 100,000 residents in Illinois and 234 in Iowa.
People move to Iowa on net
10,691 people moved to Iowa from Illinois in the latest Census release, against 6,721 going the other way.
Iowa fits families and retirees better
For families, Illinois ranks #23 of 50 and Iowa #3; for retirees, Illinois ranks #47 and Iowa #8.
Illinois vs Iowa: frequently asked questions
Is Illinois or Iowa better to live in?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Iowa #14 as of the latest release. Iowa is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 100), has a 1-point lower tax burden, and has a 7% lower violent crime rate. Iowa scores higher overall, leading 8 of 11 categories to 1.
Is Illinois cheaper than Iowa?
Iowa is cheaper than Illinois: cost of living index 87.8 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 -$2,317 in Iowa. The typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $239,547 in Iowa.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Iowa?
Iowa has the lower tax burden: 9.23% 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%; Iowa's are 3.8%, 1.49% and 6.94%.
Is Illinois safer than Iowa?
Iowa is safer: 234 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 251 in Illinois, per the FBI. Illinois ranks #20 of 50 for violent crime and Iowa #16. Property crime is 1,508 per 100,000 in Illinois and 1,172 in Iowa. The safest tracked cities are Orland Park, IL, and Bettendorf, IA.
Are homes more expensive in Illinois or Iowa?
Homes are 24% more expensive in Illinois: the typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $239,547 in Iowa. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of household income in Illinois and $70,437 in Iowa, against median incomes of $83,211 and $75,501.
Do people earn more in Illinois or Iowa?
Illinois pays more: median household income is $83,211 vs $75,501 in Iowa, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Illinois and 3.5% in Iowa. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and Iowa's in 0, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Iowa or from Iowa to Illinois?
5,280 households moved from Illinois to Iowa and 4,586 moved from Iowa to Illinois in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 694 households for Iowa. Movers to Iowa reported an average income of $58,067; movers to Illinois reported $53,660. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 10,691 people (±2,090) moving from Illinois to Iowa and 6,721 (±1,744) the other way, a net gain of about 3,970 people for Iowa beyond the margin of error.
Which is better for retirees, Illinois or Iowa?
Iowa is the better fit for retirees: #8 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; Iowa has low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$34,016 left after typical costs in Illinois and +$40,466 in Iowa.
Which is better for families, Illinois or Iowa?
Iowa is the better fit for families: #3 of 50 on the families index vs #23 for Illinois. Center-based infant care costs $19,601 a year in Illinois and $13,253 in Iowa. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 89.9%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 after typical costs in Illinois and -$2,317 in Iowa.
Is Iowa better than Illinois?
Yes: Iowa ranks higher than Illinois overall, #14 of 50 vs #39, with a composite score of 69.2 to 47.6. Iowa leads 8 of 11 categories and Illinois leads 1, including livability. 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 Iowa.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (5,280 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).