Illinois vs Michigan: Which Is Better to Live In?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Michigan #45 as of the latest release. Michigan is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.2 vs 100), has a 2-point lower tax burden, and has a 40% higher violent crime rate. Illinois scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
- Violent crime rate is 40% lower in Illinois (251 vs. 416 in Michigan).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 31% lower in Michigan ($1,524 vs. $2,210 in Illinois).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 28% lower in Michigan ($14,064 vs. $19,601 in Illinois).
| Measure | IllinoisIL | MichiganMI | GapIL−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +4.9 pts | 47.6#39 of 50 · C | 42.7#45 of 50 · D | +4.9 pts | — | IL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.8 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | +3.8 pts+4% | 100 | MI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$18,200 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | -$18,200 | -$11,758 | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$31,281 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | +$31,281+12% | $368,697 | MI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.97 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | +1.97 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -165 (-40%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | -165-40% | 328 | IL |
| Median household incomeGap +$10,822 (+15%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | +$10,822+15% | $80,903 | IL |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +6.3 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| Life expectancyGap +0.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | +0.7 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -19,839 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | -19,839 | -33 | MI |
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 Michigan better to live in?
Illinois scores higher overall: 47.6 to 42.7 out of 100, #39 of 50 against #45. Illinois leads 6 of 11 categories, Michigan leads 5, and 0 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IllinoisIL | MichiganMI | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +17.9 | 15% | 39.8#37 · C | 21.9#50 · F | +17.9 pts | IL |
| Safety12% of scoregap +9.5 | 12% | 73.4#22 · B | 63.9#31 · C+ | +9.5 pts | IL |
| Health12% of scoregap +3.4 | 12% | 58.8#24 · B | 55.4#27 · C+ | +3.4 pts | IL |
| Education12% of scoregap +23.7 | 12% | 65.9#13 · B+ | 42.2#44 · D | +23.7 pts | IL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -11.5 | 10% | 61.8#32 · C+ | 73.3#22 · B | -11.5 pts | MI |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -34.3 | 8% | 21.9#50 · F | 56.2#32 · C+ | -34.3 pts | MI |
| Growth7% of scoregap -4.3 | 7% | 20.0#45 · D | 24.3#41 · C | -4.3 pts | MI |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +4.8 | 7% | 54.2#17 · B+ | 49.4#27 · C+ | +4.8 pts | IL |
| Livability7% of scoregap +6.7 | 7% | 31.4#28 · C+ | 24.7#41 · C | +6.7 pts | IL |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -12 | 6% | 5.8#49 · F | 17.8#32 · C+ | -12 pts | MI |
| Environment4% of scoregap -11 | 4% | 31.0#39 · C | 42.0#23 · B | -11 pts | MI |
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 Michigan?
Michigan is cheaper: cost of living index 96.2 vs 100 in Illinois (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $18,200 more a year in Michigan after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | MichiganMI | GapIL−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.8 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | +3.8 pts+4% | 100 | MI |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +7.8 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 96#16 of 50 | +7.8 pts+8% | 100 | MI |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.32¢ (-12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | -2.32¢-12% | 17.84¢/kWh | IL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.33 (+3%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | +$0.33+3% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.08 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | +$0.08+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,537 (+39%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $14,064#21 of 50 | +$5,537+39% | $15,633 | MI |
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 | MichiganMI | GapIL−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$4,086 | +$30,341costs $44,659 | +$34,427costs $40,573 | -$4,086 | MI |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$5,569 | +$21,123costs $53,877 | +$26,692costs $48,308 | -$5,569 | MI |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$18,200 | -$23,834costs $98,834 | -$5,634costs $80,634 | -$18,200 | MI |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$4,991 | +$34,016costs $40,985 | +$39,007costs $35,994 | -$4,991 | MI |
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 | MichiganMI | GapIL−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$4,582 | $24,335 | $19,753 | +$4,582 | MI |
| ChildcareGap +$11,074 | $39,202 | $28,128 | +$11,074 | MI |
| UtilitiesGap +$182 | $4,800 | $4,618 | +$182 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$879 | $11,691 | $10,812 | +$879 | MI |
| TransportationGap +$251 | $9,994 | $9,743 | +$251 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,232 | $8,812 | $7,580 | +$1,232 | MI |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Michigan?
Michigan collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 8.25% vs 10.22%. Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack; Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | MichiganMI | GapIL−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.97 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | +1.97 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.7 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 6.65%#36 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 5.46% | IL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.76 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 1.35%#37 of 50 | +0.76 pts | 1.02% | MI |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.96 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 6%#13 of 50 | +2.96 pts | 6.66% | MI |
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 Michigan?
Homes cost 12% more in Illinois: a typical home value of $297,573 in Illinois vs $266,292 in Michigan. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of income in Illinois and $73,945 in Michigan; the median household earns $83,211 and $72,389.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | MichiganMI | GapIL−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$31,281 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | +$31,281+12% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.3 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | +4%#7 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$686 (+45%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,524#16 of 50 | +$686+45% | $1,948 | MI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$19,497 (+26%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $73,945#12 of 50 | +$19,497+26% | $100,006 | MI |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.1x (-3%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 3.7x#15 of 50 | -0.1x-3% | 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 | MI | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,531 | $1,370 |
| Income needed vs. median | +12% | +2% |
| Five-year change | +29.1% | +24.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Chicago | Detroit |
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 Michigan?
Illinois pays more: median household income $83,211 vs $72,389, with unemployment at 4.6% in Illinois and 5.2% in Michigan. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 12 after adjusting for local costs and Michigan's in 1.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | MichiganMI | GapIL−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$10,822 (+15%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | +$10,822+15% | $80,903 | IL |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 5.2%#48 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | IL |
| GDP per capitaGap +$18,827 (+34%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $55,326#40 of 50 | +$18,827+34% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +1.8%#30 of 50 | -0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.15 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.28%#35 of 50 | -0.15 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 | MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $184,326$182,483 in Chicago | $152,435$143,289 in Detroit | IL |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $94,467$93,522 in Chicago | $82,057$77,134 in Detroit | IL |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,716$116,539 in Chicago | $107,373$100,931 in Detroit | IL |
| Electricians | $77,683$76,906 in Chicago | $68,769$64,643 in Detroit | IL |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $80,526$79,721 in Chicago | $73,448$69,041 in Detroit | IL |
| Accountants & Auditors | $88,923$88,034 in Chicago | $82,872$77,900 in Detroit | IL |
| Registered Nurses | $96,004$95,044 in Chicago | $89,989$84,590 in Detroit | IL |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $64,823$64,175 in Chicago | $59,364$55,802 in Detroit | IL |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $253,714$251,177 in Chicago | $248,727$233,803 in Detroit | Even |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $118,487$117,302 in Chicago | $113,783$106,956 in Detroit | IL |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $63,082$62,451 in Chicago | $60,091$56,486 in Detroit | IL |
| Civil Engineers | $110,197$109,095 in Chicago | $107,310$100,871 in Detroit | Even |
| Construction Laborers | $45,892$45,433 in Chicago | $48,624$45,707 in Detroit | MI |
| Software Developers | $146,220$144,758 in Chicago | $143,840$135,210 in Detroit | Even |
| Mental Health Counselors | $62,409$61,785 in Chicago | $60,529$56,897 in Detroit | IL |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $53,463$52,928 in Chicago | $51,641$48,543 in Detroit | IL |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,004$74,254 in Chicago | $73,498$69,088 in Detroit | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $74,526$73,781 in Chicago | $73,631$69,213 in Detroit | Even |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,610$60,004 in Chicago | $61,151$57,482 in Detroit | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,241$35,879 in Chicago | $35,851$33,700 in Detroit | 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 Michigan?
Illinois is safer: 251 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan (FBI). Property crime runs 1,508 and 1,259 per 100,000.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | MichiganMI | GapIL−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -165 (-40%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | -165-40% | 328 | IL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +249 (+20%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,259#13 of 50 | +249+20% | 1,535 | MI |
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
- Rochester Hills, MI62 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Illinois or Michigan?
Illinois scores higher for education (#13 of 50 vs #44), with high school graduation rates of 87.3% and 81%. Illinois scores higher for health (#24 vs #27); life expectancy is 77.5 years in Illinois and 76.8 in Michigan.
| Measure | IllinoisIL | MichiganMI | GapIL−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 270#31 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 255#33 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +6.3 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| Life expectancyGap +0.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | +0.7 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.9 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 36.1%#33 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 34.03% | IL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.8 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 5.1%#8 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 40#27 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | MI |
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
- Farmington Hills, MIeducation score 94.2
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, Michigan #44. Health: Illinois #24, Michigan #27.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Michigan, or from Michigan to Illinois?
5,300 households moved from Illinois to Michigan and 5,881 moved from Michigan to Illinois in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 581 households for Illinois. Movers to Michigan reported an average income of $107,008; movers to Illinois reported $74,920. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 12,464 people (±2,739) moving from Illinois to Michigan and 9,418 (±2,605) 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 | MichiganMI | GapIL−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +45,497 (+63%) | 117,297#12 of 50 | 71,800#20 of 50 | +45,497+63% | IL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +65,336 (+81%) | 145,906#46 of 50 | 80,570#33 of 50 | +65,336+81% | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -19,839 | -28,609#48 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | -19,839 | MI |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.3 | -2.2#47 of 50 | -0.9#38 of 50 | -1.3 | MI |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,675 (+6%) | $78,820#26 of 50 | $74,145#30 of 50 | +$4,675+6% | IL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$26,500 (+34%) | $104,443#5 of 50 | $77,943#18 of 50 | +$26,500+34% | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.3 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +0.2#31 of 50 | -3.3 | MI |
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 Michigan?
Illinois is the better fit for families and young professionals; Michigan is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, 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 | MichiganMI | GapIL−MI | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -18 places | #23score 66.1 | #41score 53.5 | -18 places | IL |
| RetireesGap +17 places | #47score 46.6 | #30score 59.7 | +17 places | MI |
| Remote WorkersGap +5 places | #48score 31.9 | #43score 41.5 | +5 places | MI |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -5 places | #42score 41.6 | #47score 37.5 | -5 places | IL |
| Small BusinessGap +3 places | #48score 30.3 | #45score 36.9 | +3 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +7 places | #39score 29.9 | #32score 36.1 | +7 places | MI |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIllinois (#23 vs #41)
- RetireesMichigan (#30 vs #47)
- Remote WorkersMichigan (#43 vs #48)
- Young ProfessionalsIllinois (#42 vs #47)
- Small BusinessEven (#48 vs #45)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsMichigan (#32 vs #39)
Which cities stand out in Illinois and Michigan?
Illinois has 29 tracked cities and Michigan has 24; the largest are Chicago and Detroit. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IllinoisIL | MichiganMI |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Chicago2,711,226 people | Detroit638,530 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Napervillescore 73.2 | Troyscore 69.5 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Orland Park9 violent per 100K | Rochester Hills62 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Decaturcost index 88.4 | Battle Creekcost index 90.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Skokiewalkability 16 of 20 | Ann Arborwalkability 13.5 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Waukegancounty median AQI 39 | Lansingcounty median AQI 38 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Farmington Hills94.2% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Napervillemedian income $155,105 | Rochester Hillsmedian income $120,694 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Wheaton+1.3% growth | Grand Rapids+0.9% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Illinois and Michigan compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Illinois carries BBB+ credit rating and Michigan AA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IllinoisIL | MichiganMI | GapIL−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +7 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 13%#33 of 50 | +7 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +20.7 (+197%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 10.5#7 of 50 | +20.7+197% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap -11 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 13.4%#18 of 50 | -11 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | +4 min | 25.2 min | MI |
| Commuters using public transitGap +6 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 1%#28 of 50 | +6 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.4 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 11.2%#33 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 12.28% | IL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 92.8%#27 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 92.67% | Even |
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 | MichiganMI | GapIL−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -25 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 90#39 of 50 | -25 pts | 92.7 | MI |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -12.6 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 13.5%#13 of 50 | -12.6 pts | 12.39% | MI |
| Pension funded ratioGap -23 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 68%#35 of 50 | -23 pts | 74.3% | MI |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,570 (+112%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $3,180#31 of 50 | +$3,570+112% | $3,506 | MI |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6.4 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +4.3%#29 of 50 | -6.4 pts | +4.66% | MI |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Illinois BBB+, Michigan 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 Michigan: 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, Michigan on 26, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IllinoisIL | MichiganMI | GapIL−MI | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,591,257 (+26%) · US 6.8 million | 12.7 million#6 of 50 | 10.1 million#10 of 50 | +2,591,257+26% | 6.8 million | IL |
| Median household incomeGap +$10,822 (+15%) · US $80,903 | $83,211#18 of 50 | $72,389#37 of 50 | +$10,822+15% | $80,903 | IL |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.6 pts · US 3.95% | 4.6%#41 of 50 | 5.2%#48 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 3.95% | IL |
| Population growthGap -0.15 pts · US +0.51% | +0.13%#41 of 50 | +0.28%#35 of 50 | -0.15 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$18,827 (+34%) · US $64,333 | $74,153#8 of 50 | $55,326#40 of 50 | +$18,827+34% | $64,333 | IL |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.2 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +1.8%#30 of 50 | -0.2 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -165 (-40%) · US 328 | 251#20 of 50 | 416#40 of 50 | -165-40% | 328 | IL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +249 (+20%) · US 1,535 | 1,508#28 of 50 | 1,259#13 of 50 | +249+20% | 1,535 | MI |
| High school graduation rateGap +6.3 pts · US 85.62% | 87.3%#20 of 50 | 81%#45 of 50 | +6.3 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 236#33 of 50 | 235#34 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 273 | 277#16 of 50 | 270#31 of 50 | +7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +5 · US 214 | 214#29 of 50 | 209#44 of 50 | +5 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +7 · US 257 | 262#7 of 50 | 255#33 of 50 | +7 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.7 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.5#23 of 50 | 76.8#29 of 50 | +0.7 yrs | 76.9 | IL |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.9 pts · US 34.03% | 34.2%#25 of 50 | 36.1%#33 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 34.03% | IL |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +1.8 pts · US 7.6% | 6.9%#24 of 50 | 5.1%#8 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 7.6% | MI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$31,281 (+12%) · US $368,697 | $297,573#17 of 50 | $266,292#12 of 50 | +$31,281+12% | $368,697 | MI |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1.3 pts · US +1.2% | +5.3%#3 of 50 | +4%#7 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.2% | IL |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$686 (+45%) · US $1,948 | $2,210#40 of 50 | $1,524#16 of 50 | +$686+45% | $1,948 | MI |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$19,497 (+26%) · US $100,006 | $93,442#24 of 50 | $73,945#12 of 50 | +$19,497+26% | $100,006 | MI |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +3.8 pts (+4%) · US 100 | 100#33 of 50 | 96.2#24 of 50 | +3.8 pts+4% | 100 | MI |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.1x (-3%) · US 4.6x | 3.6x#9 of 50 | 3.7x#15 of 50 | -0.1x-3% | 4.6x | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -2.32¢ (-12%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | 20.01¢/kWh#39 of 50 | -2.32¢-12% | 17.84¢/kWh | IL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.33 (+3%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | $10.92/Mcf#9 of 50 | +$0.33+3% | $15.83/Mcf | Even |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.08 (+3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | $3.10/gal#16 of 50 | +$0.08+3% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +7.8 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 103.8#43 of 50 | 96#16 of 50 | +7.8 pts+8% | 100 | MI |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$5,537 (+39%) · US $15,633 | $19,601#39 of 50 | $14,064#21 of 50 | +$5,537+39% | $15,633 | MI |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.97 pts · US 8.74% | 10.22%#44 of 50 | 8.25%#18 of 50 | +1.97 pts | 8.74% | MI |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -1.7 pts · US 5.46% | 4.95%#22 of 50 | 6.65%#36 of 50 | -1.7 pts | 5.46% | IL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.76 pts · US 1.02% | 2.11%#49 of 50 | 1.35%#37 of 50 | +0.76 pts | 1.02% | MI |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.96 pts · US 6.66% | 8.96%#43 of 50 | 6%#13 of 50 | +2.96 pts | 6.66% | MI |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -25 pts · US 92.7 | 65#50 of 50 | 90#39 of 50 | -25 pts | 92.7 | MI |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -12.6 pts · US 12.39% | 0.9%#50 of 50 | 13.5%#13 of 50 | -12.6 pts | 12.39% | MI |
| Pension funded ratioGap -23 pts · US 74.3% | 45%#50 of 50 | 68%#35 of 50 | -23 pts | 74.3% | MI |
| State debt per capitaGap +$3,570 (+112%) · US $3,506 | $6,750#46 of 50 | $3,180#31 of 50 | +$3,570+112% | $3,506 | MI |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -6.4 pts · US +4.66% | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +4.3%#29 of 50 | -6.4 pts | +4.66% | MI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +3 pts (+8%) · US 38.8 | 43#42 of 50 | 40#27 of 50 | +3 pts+8% | 38.8 | MI |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +7 pts · US 29.34% | 20%#24 of 50 | 13%#33 of 50 | +7 pts | 29.34% | IL |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +20.7 (+197%) · US 29.6 | 31.2#29 of 50 | 10.5#7 of 50 | +20.7+197% | 29.6 | MI |
| Public land shareGap -11 pts · US 17.16% | 2.4%#42 of 50 | 13.4%#18 of 50 | -11 pts | 17.16% | MI |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4 min · US 25.2 min | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | 24.3 min#20 of 50 | +4 min | 25.2 min | MI |
| Commuters using public transitGap +6 pts · US 2.29% | 7%#4 of 50 | 1%#28 of 50 | +6 pts | 2.29% | IL |
| Workers working from homeGap +2.4 pts · US 12.28% | 13.6%#18 of 50 | 11.2%#33 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 12.28% | IL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#24 of 50 | 92.8%#27 of 50 | +0.1 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +45,497 (+63%) · US 78,682 | 117,297#12 of 50 | 71,800#20 of 50 | +45,497+63% | 78,682 | IL |
| Households moving outIRSGap +65,336 (+81%) · US 78,715 | 145,906#46 of 50 | 80,570#33 of 50 | +65,336+81% | 78,715 | MI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -19,839 · US -33 | -28,609#48 of 50 | -8,770#42 of 50 | -19,839 | -33 | MI |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.3 · US +0.4 | -2.2#47 of 50 | -0.9#38 of 50 | -1.3 | +0.4 | MI |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$4,675 (+6%) · US $77,690 | $78,820#26 of 50 | $74,145#30 of 50 | +$4,675+6% | $77,690 | IL |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$26,500 (+34%) · US $77,024 | $104,443#5 of 50 | $77,943#18 of 50 | +$26,500+34% | $77,024 | IL |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.3 · US +1.1 | -3.1#43 of 50 | +0.2#31 of 50 | -3.3 | +1.1 | MI |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$18,200 · US -$11,758 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$5,634#17 of 50 | -$18,200 | -$11,758 | MI |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$4,086 · US +$31,418 | +$30,341#27 of 50 | +$34,427#18 of 50 | -$4,086 | +$31,418 | MI |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$4,991 · US +$35,970 | +$34,016#28 of 50 | +$39,007#19 of 50 | -$4,991 | +$35,970 | MI |
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 Michigan numbers say when read together.
Illinois ranks higher overall
Illinois leads 6 of the 11 categories to Michigan's 5, with 0 even; Michigan is ahead on fiscal health and outdoor access. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Illinois is ahead on 15 and Michigan on 26.
Michigan is cheaper day to day
Michigan's cost of living index is 96.2 against 100 in Illinois (US = 100). The typical home costs $297,573 in Illinois and $266,292 in Michigan. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 a year after typical costs in Illinois and -$5,634 in Michigan.
Michigan 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); Michigan collects 8.25% (low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack).
Illinois pays more and is safer
Median household income is $83,211 in Illinois and $72,389 in Michigan, with unemployment at 4.6% and 5.2%. Violent crime runs 251 per 100,000 residents in Illinois and 416 in Michigan.
Moves between the two run about even
12,464 people moved from Illinois to Michigan and 9,418 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Illinois for families, Michigan for retirees
For families, Illinois ranks #23 of 50 and Michigan #41; for retirees, Illinois ranks #47 and Michigan #30.
Illinois vs Michigan: frequently asked questions
Is Illinois or Michigan better to live in?
Illinois ranks #39 of 50 overall and Michigan #45 as of the latest release. Michigan is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 96.2 vs 100), has a 2-point lower tax burden, and has a 40% higher violent crime rate. Illinois scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 5.
Is Illinois cheaper than Michigan?
Michigan is cheaper than Illinois: cost of living index 96.2 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 -$5,634 in Michigan. The typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $266,292 in Michigan.
Which has lower taxes, Illinois or Michigan?
Michigan has the lower tax burden: 8.25% 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%; Michigan's are 6.65%, 1.35% and 6%.
Is Illinois safer than Michigan?
Illinois is safer: 251 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 416 in Michigan, per the FBI. Illinois ranks #20 of 50 for violent crime and Michigan #40. Property crime is 1,508 per 100,000 in Illinois and 1,259 in Michigan. The safest tracked cities are Orland Park, IL, and Rochester Hills, MI.
Are homes more expensive in Illinois or Michigan?
Homes are 12% more expensive in Illinois: the typical home value is $297,573 in Illinois and $266,292 in Michigan. Buying the typical home takes about $93,442 of household income in Illinois and $73,945 in Michigan, against median incomes of $83,211 and $72,389.
Do people earn more in Illinois or Michigan?
Illinois pays more: median household income is $83,211 vs $72,389 in Michigan, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.6% in Illinois and 5.2% in Michigan. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Illinois's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 12 after adjusting for local costs and Michigan's in 1, with 7 even.
Are more people moving from Illinois to Michigan or from Michigan to Illinois?
5,300 households moved from Illinois to Michigan and 5,881 moved from Michigan to Illinois in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 581 households for Illinois. Movers to Michigan reported an average income of $107,008; movers to Illinois reported $74,920. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 12,464 people (±2,739) moving from Illinois to Michigan and 9,418 (±2,605) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Illinois or Michigan?
Michigan is the better fit for retirees: #30 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; Michigan has low sales tax, with income and property taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$34,016 left after typical costs in Illinois and +$39,007 in Michigan.
Which is better for families, Illinois or Michigan?
Illinois is the better fit for families: #23 of 50 on the families index vs #41 for Michigan. Center-based infant care costs $19,601 a year in Illinois and $14,064 in Michigan. High school graduation rates are 87.3% and 81%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$23,834 after typical costs in Illinois and -$5,634 in Michigan.
Is Michigan better than Illinois?
No: Illinois ranks higher than Michigan overall, #39 of 50 vs #45, with a composite score of 47.6 to 42.7. Illinois leads 6 of 11 categories and Michigan leads 5, including fiscal health and outdoor access. 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 Michigan.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (5,881 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).