New York vs Illinois: Which Is Better to Live In?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Illinois #39 as of the latest release. Illinois is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 107.9), has a 3.3-point lower tax burden, and has a 32% lower violent crime rate. New York scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Typical home value is 44% lower in Illinois ($297,573 vs. $526,714 in New York).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 39% lower in Illinois ($2,210 vs. $3,615 in New York).
- Residential electricity price is 33% lower in Illinois (17.69¢/kWh vs. 26.39¢/kWh in New York).
| Measure | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | GapNY−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +7.3 pts | 54.9#29 of 50 · C+ | 47.6#39 of 50 · C | +7.3 pts | — | NY |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.9 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 100#33 of 50 | +7.9 pts+8% | 100 | IL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$19,394 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$19,394 | -$11,758 | IL |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$229,141 (+77%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $297,573#17 of 50 | +$229,141+77% | $368,697 | IL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.34 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 10.22%#44 of 50 | +3.34 pts | 8.74% | IL |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +117 (+47%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 251#20 of 50 | +117+47% | 328 | IL |
| Median household incomeGap +$2,609 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $83,211#18 of 50 | +$2,609+3% | $80,903 | NY |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 87.3%#20 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 77.5#23 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -43,378 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -28,609#48 of 50 | -43,378 | -33 | IL |
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 New York or Illinois better to live in?
New York scores higher overall: 54.9 to 47.6 out of 100, #29 of 50 against #39. New York leads 6 of 11 categories, Illinois leads 4, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +6.5 | 15% | 46.3#25 · B | 39.8#37 · C | +6.5 pts | NY |
| Safety12% of scoregap -10.4 | 12% | 63.0#34 · C+ | 73.4#22 · B | -10.4 pts | IL |
| Health12% of scoregap +20.9 | 12% | 79.7#3 · A+ | 58.8#24 · B | +20.9 pts | NY |
| Education12% of scoregap -9.3 | 12% | 56.6#30 · C+ | 65.9#13 · B+ | -9.3 pts | IL |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -24.6 | 10% | 37.2#47 · D | 61.8#32 · C+ | -24.6 pts | IL |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +22.6 | 8% | 44.5#42 · C | 21.9#50 · F | +22.6 pts | NY |
| Growth7% of scoregap -6 | 7% | 14.0#48 · D | 20.0#45 · D | -6 pts | IL |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -1.6 | 7% | 52.6#20 · B | 54.2#17 · B+ | -1.6 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +18 | 7% | 49.4#5 · A+ | 31.4#28 · C+ | +18 pts | NY |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +24.4 | 6% | 30.2#23 · B | 5.8#49 · F | +24.4 pts | NY |
| Environment4% of scoregap +27.4 | 4% | 58.4#7 · A | 31.0#39 · C | +27.4 pts | NY |
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 New York cheaper than Illinois?
Illinois is cheaper: cost of living index 100 vs 107.9 in New York (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $19,394 more a year in Illinois after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | GapNY−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.9 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 100#33 of 50 | +7.9 pts+8% | 100 | IL |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.5 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 103.8#43 of 50 | +3.5 pts+3% | 100 | IL |
| Residential electricity priceGap +8.70¢ (+49%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | +8.70¢+49% | 17.84¢/kWh | IL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$6.33 (+56%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | +$6.33+56% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | -$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,377 (+7%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $19,601#39 of 50 | +$1,377+7% | $15,633 | IL |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | GapNY−IL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$10,070 | +$20,271costs $54,729 | +$30,341costs $44,659 | -$10,070 | IL |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$13,009 | +$8,114costs $66,886 | +$21,123costs $53,877 | -$13,009 | IL |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$19,394 | -$43,228costs $118,229 | -$23,834costs $98,834 | -$19,394 | IL |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$11,368 | +$22,648costs $52,352 | +$34,016costs $40,985 | -$11,368 | IL |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | GapNY−IL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$16,263 | $40,598 | $24,335 | +$16,263 | IL |
| ChildcareGap +$2,754 | $41,956 | $39,202 | +$2,754 | IL |
| UtilitiesGap +$379 | $5,179 | $4,800 | +$379 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$394 | $12,085 | $11,691 | +$394 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$31 | $9,963 | $9,994 | -$31 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$364 | $8,448 | $8,812 | -$364 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Illinois?
Illinois collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 10.22% vs 13.56%. New York has high across the board; Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | GapNY−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.34 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 10.22%#44 of 50 | +3.34 pts | 8.74% | IL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +9.83 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 4.95%#22 of 50 | +9.83 pts | 5.46% | IL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.47 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 2.11%#49 of 50 | -0.47 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.42 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 8.96%#43 of 50 | -0.42 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 New York or Illinois?
Homes cost 77% more in New York: a typical home value of $526,714 in New York vs $297,573 in Illinois. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of income in New York and $93,442 in Illinois; the median household earns $85,820 and $83,211.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | GapNY−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$229,141 (+77%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $297,573#17 of 50 | +$229,141+77% | $368,697 | IL |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.3 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +5.3%#3 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,405 (+64%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $2,210#40 of 50 | +$1,405+64% | $1,948 | IL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$47,267 (+51%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $93,442#24 of 50 | +$47,267+51% | $100,006 | IL |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.5x (+69%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 3.6x#9 of 50 | +2.5x+69% | 4.6x | IL |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| NY | IL | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,710 | $1,531 |
| Income needed vs. median | +64% | +12% |
| Five-year change | +29.5% | +29.1% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Warm |
| Largest metro | New York | Chicago |
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 New York or Illinois?
New York pays more: median household income $85,820 vs $83,211, with unemployment at 4.3% in New York and 4.6% in Illinois. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 11 after adjusting for local costs and Illinois's in 1.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | GapNY−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$2,609 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $83,211#18 of 50 | +$2,609+3% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 4.6%#41 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$27,874 (+38%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $74,153#8 of 50 | +$27,874+38% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | NY |
| Population growthGap -0.12 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.13%#41 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 | NY | IL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | $231,909$250,462 in New York | $184,326$182,483 in Chicago | NY |
| Software Developers | $191,445$206,761 in New York | $146,220$144,758 in Chicago | NY |
| Electricians | $95,830$103,496 in New York | $77,683$76,906 in Chicago | NY |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $267,162$288,535 in New York | $253,714$251,177 in Chicago | NY |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $49,203$53,139 in New York | $36,241$35,879 in Chicago | NY |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $106,981$115,540 in New York | $94,467$93,522 in Chicago | NY |
| Registered Nurses | $103,379$111,649 in New York | $96,004$95,044 in Chicago | NY |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $65,430$70,664 in New York | $60,610$60,004 in Chicago | NY |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $76,636$82,767 in New York | $80,526$79,721 in Chicago | IL |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $122,114$131,883 in New York | $118,487$117,302 in Chicago | Even |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $65,845$71,113 in New York | $63,082$62,451 in Chicago | NY |
| Mental Health Counselors | $64,892$70,083 in New York | $62,409$61,785 in Chicago | NY |
| Construction Laborers | $47,986$51,825 in New York | $45,892$45,433 in Chicago | NY |
| Accountants & Auditors | $90,791$98,054 in New York | $88,923$88,034 in Chicago | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,384$58,735 in New York | $53,463$52,928 in Chicago | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,227$81,245 in New York | $74,526$73,781 in Chicago | Even |
| General & Operations Managers | $117,051$126,415 in New York | $117,716$116,539 in Chicago | Even |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,414$81,447 in New York | $75,004$74,254 in Chicago | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $110,483$119,322 in New York | $110,197$109,095 in Chicago | Even |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $65,024$70,226 in New York | $64,823$64,175 in Chicago | 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 New York safer than Illinois?
Illinois is safer: 251 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York (FBI). Property crime runs 1,575 and 1,508 per 100,000.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | GapNY−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +117 (+47%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 251#20 of 50 | +117+47% | 328 | IL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +67 (+4%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,508#28 of 50 | +67+4% | 1,535 | Even |
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.
- White Plains, NY115 violent per 100K
- Orland Park, IL9 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, New York or Illinois?
Illinois scores higher for education (#13 of 50 vs #30), with high school graduation rates of 86.7% and 87.3%. New York scores higher for health (#3 vs #24); life expectancy is 79.5 years in New York and 77.5 in Illinois.
| Measure | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | GapNY−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 277#16 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 262#7 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 87.3%#20 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 77.5#23 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.7 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 34.2%#25 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 6.9%#24 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -7 pts (-16%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 43#42 of 50 | -7 pts-16% | 38.8 | NY |
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).
- Levittown, NYeducation score 94.2
- No city school data
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: New York #30, Illinois #13. Health: New York #3, Illinois #24.
Are more people moving from New York to Illinois, or from Illinois to New York?
4,436 households moved from New York to Illinois and 5,325 moved from Illinois to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 889 households for New York. Movers to Illinois reported an average income of $133,756; movers to New York reported $118,118. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 11,082 people (±3,600) moving from New York to Illinois and 7,781 (±1,903) 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 | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | GapNY−IL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +74,943 (+64%) | 192,240#4 of 50 | 117,297#12 of 50 | +74,943+64% | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +118,321 (+81%) | 264,227#48 of 50 | 145,906#46 of 50 | +118,321+81% | IL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -43,378 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -28,609#48 of 50 | -43,378 | IL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | -2.2#47 of 50 | -1.4 | IL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$15,382 (+20%) | $94,202#6 of 50 | $78,820#26 of 50 | +$15,382+20% | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,540 (+1%) | $105,983#4 of 50 | $104,443#5 of 50 | +$1,540+1% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.8 | -6.9#50 of 50 | -3.1#43 of 50 | -3.8 | IL |
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, New York or Illinois?
New York is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; Illinois is the better fit for families; 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 | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | GapNY−IL | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +6 places | #29score 62.6 | #23score 66.1 | +6 places | IL |
| RetireesGap -22 places | #25score 62 | #47score 46.6 | -22 places | NY |
| Remote WorkersGap -4 places | #44score 41.4 | #48score 31.9 | -4 places | NY |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -2 places | #40score 42.8 | #42score 41.6 | -2 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -4 places | #44score 37.5 | #48score 30.3 | -4 places | NY |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -18 places | #21score 50.9 | #39score 29.9 | -18 places | NY |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesIllinois (#23 vs #29)
- RetireesNew York (#25 vs #47)
- Remote WorkersNew York (#44 vs #48)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#40 vs #42)
- Small BusinessNew York (#44 vs #48)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsNew York (#21 vs #39)
Which cities stand out in New York and Illinois?
New York has 20 tracked cities and Illinois has 29; the largest are New York and Chicago. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | New York8,483,844 people | Chicago2,711,226 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Levittownscore 74.8 | Napervillescore 73.2 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | White Plains115 violent per 100K | Orland Park9 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Uticacost index 92.7 | Decaturcost index 88.4 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Hempsteadwalkability 15 of 20 | Skokiewalkability 16 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Uticacounty median AQI 27 | Waukegancounty median AQI 39 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Levittown94.2% graduation rate | — |
| Richest citymedian household income | Levittownmedian income $146,068 | Napervillemedian income $155,105 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Yonkers+0.5% growth | Wheaton+1.3% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do New York and Illinois compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. New York carries AA credit rating and Illinois BBB+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | GapNY−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +10 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 20%#24 of 50 | +10 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -27.4 (-88%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 31.2#29 of 50 | -27.4-88% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +12.7 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 2.4%#42 of 50 | +12.7 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.9 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | +4.9 min | 25.2 min | IL |
| Commuters using public transitGap +17.2 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 7%#4 of 50 | +17.2 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.8 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 13.6%#18 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 12.28% | IL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 92.9%#24 of 50 | +0.2 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 | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | GapNY−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +25 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 65#50 of 50 | +25 pts | 92.7 | NY |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +2.9 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 0.9%#50 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 12.39% | NY |
| Pension funded ratioGap +45 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 45%#50 of 50 | +45 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,380 (+20%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $6,750#46 of 50 | +$1,380+20% | $3,506 | IL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.6 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +4.66% | NY |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; New York AA, Illinois BBB+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
New York vs Illinois: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. New York is ahead on 16 of 51, Illinois on 22, and 13 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | New YorkNY | IllinoisIL | GapNY−IL | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +7,283,286 (+57%) · US 6.8 million | 20 million#4 of 50 | 12.7 million#6 of 50 | +7,283,286+57% | 6.8 million | NY |
| Median household incomeGap +$2,609 (+3%) · US $80,903 | $85,820#15 of 50 | $83,211#18 of 50 | +$2,609+3% | $80,903 | NY |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.3 pts · US 3.95% | 4.3%#34 of 50 | 4.6%#41 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 3.95% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.12 pts · US +0.51% | +0.01%#45 of 50 | +0.13%#41 of 50 | -0.12 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$27,874 (+38%) · US $64,333 | $102,027#1 of 50 | $74,153#8 of 50 | +$27,874+38% | $64,333 | NY |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.5%#12 of 50 | +1.6%#33 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | NY |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +117 (+47%) · US 328 | 368#35 of 50 | 251#20 of 50 | +117+47% | 328 | IL |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +67 (+4%) · US 1,535 | 1,575#31 of 50 | 1,508#28 of 50 | +67+4% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -0.6 pts · US 85.62% | 86.7%#24 of 50 | 87.3%#20 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 85.62% | IL |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 234#38 of 50 | 236#33 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -7 · US 273 | 271#27 of 50 | 277#16 of 50 | -7 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 214 | 215#26 of 50 | 214#29 of 50 | +0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -5 · US 257 | 257#27 of 50 | 262#7 of 50 | -5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.5#4 of 50 | 77.5#23 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | NY |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.7 pts · US 34.03% | 29.5%#7 of 50 | 34.2%#25 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 34.03% | NY |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1.9 pts · US 7.6% | 5%#6 of 50 | 6.9%#24 of 50 | -1.9 pts | 7.6% | NY |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$229,141 (+77%) · US $368,697 | $526,714#43 of 50 | $297,573#17 of 50 | +$229,141+77% | $368,697 | IL |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.3 pts · US +1.2% | +5.6%#2 of 50 | +5.3%#3 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$1,405 (+64%) · US $1,948 | $3,615#50 of 50 | $2,210#40 of 50 | +$1,405+64% | $1,948 | IL |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$47,267 (+51%) · US $100,006 | $140,709#45 of 50 | $93,442#24 of 50 | +$47,267+51% | $100,006 | IL |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +7.9 pts (+8%) · US 100 | 107.9#47 of 50 | 100#33 of 50 | +7.9 pts+8% | 100 | IL |
| Home value to income ratioGap +2.5x (+69%) · US 4.6x | 6.1x#46 of 50 | 3.6x#9 of 50 | +2.5x+69% | 4.6x | IL |
| Residential electricity priceGap +8.70¢ (+49%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 26.39¢/kWh#44 of 50 | 17.69¢/kWh#35 of 50 | +8.70¢+49% | 17.84¢/kWh | IL |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$6.33 (+56%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $17.58/Mcf#37 of 50 | $11.25/Mcf#12 of 50 | +$6.33+56% | $15.83/Mcf | IL |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.01 (0%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.17/gal#21 of 50 | $3.18/gal#24 of 50 | -$0.010% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.5 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 107.3#49 of 50 | 103.8#43 of 50 | +3.5 pts+3% | 100 | IL |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$1,377 (+7%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#43 of 50 | $19,601#39 of 50 | +$1,377+7% | $15,633 | IL |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.34 pts · US 8.74% | 13.56%#49 of 50 | 10.22%#44 of 50 | +3.34 pts | 8.74% | IL |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +9.83 pts · US 5.46% | 14.78%#50 of 50 | 4.95%#22 of 50 | +9.83 pts | 5.46% | IL |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.47 pts · US 1.02% | 1.64%#45 of 50 | 2.11%#49 of 50 | -0.47 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.42 pts · US 6.66% | 8.54%#41 of 50 | 8.96%#43 of 50 | -0.42 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +25 pts · US 92.7 | 90#32 of 50 | 65#50 of 50 | +25 pts | 92.7 | NY |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +2.9 pts · US 12.39% | 3.8%#48 of 50 | 0.9%#50 of 50 | +2.9 pts | 12.39% | NY |
| Pension funded ratioGap +45 pts · US 74.3% | 90%#7 of 50 | 45%#50 of 50 | +45 pts | 74.3% | NY |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,380 (+20%) · US $3,506 | $8,130#47 of 50 | $6,750#46 of 50 | +$1,380+20% | $3,506 | IL |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.6 pts · US +4.66% | -1.5%#48 of 50 | -2.1%#49 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +4.66% | NY |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -7 pts (-16%) · US 38.8 | 36#14 of 50 | 43#42 of 50 | -7 pts-16% | 38.8 | NY |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +10 pts · US 29.34% | 30%#22 of 50 | 20%#24 of 50 | +10 pts | 29.34% | NY |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -27.4 (-88%) · US 29.6 | 3.8#4 of 50 | 31.2#29 of 50 | -27.4-88% | 29.6 | NY |
| Public land shareGap +12.7 pts · US 17.16% | 15.1%#16 of 50 | 2.4%#42 of 50 | +12.7 pts | 17.16% | NY |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.9 min · US 25.2 min | 33.2 min#50 of 50 | 28.3 min#43 of 50 | +4.9 min | 25.2 min | IL |
| Commuters using public transitGap +17.2 pts · US 2.29% | 24.2%#1 of 50 | 7%#4 of 50 | +17.2 pts | 2.29% | NY |
| Workers working from homeGap -1.8 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#28 of 50 | 13.6%#18 of 50 | -1.8 pts | 12.28% | IL |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.2 pts · US 92.67% | 93.1%#20 of 50 | 92.9%#24 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 92.67% | Even |
| Households moving inIRSGap +74,943 (+64%) · US 78,682 | 192,240#4 of 50 | 117,297#12 of 50 | +74,943+64% | 78,682 | NY |
| Households moving outIRSGap +118,321 (+81%) · US 78,715 | 264,227#48 of 50 | 145,906#46 of 50 | +118,321+81% | 78,715 | IL |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -43,378 · US -33 | -71,987#49 of 50 | -28,609#48 of 50 | -43,378 | -33 | IL |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.4 · US +0.4 | -3.6#50 of 50 | -2.2#47 of 50 | -1.4 | +0.4 | IL |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$15,382 (+20%) · US $77,690 | $94,202#6 of 50 | $78,820#26 of 50 | +$15,382+20% | $77,690 | NY |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$1,540 (+1%) · US $77,024 | $105,983#4 of 50 | $104,443#5 of 50 | +$1,540+1% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -3.8 · US +1.1 | -6.9#50 of 50 | -3.1#43 of 50 | -3.8 | +1.1 | IL |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$19,394 · US -$11,758 | -$43,228#45 of 50 | -$23,834#35 of 50 | -$19,394 | -$11,758 | IL |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$10,070 · US +$31,418 | +$20,271#46 of 50 | +$30,341#27 of 50 | -$10,070 | +$31,418 | IL |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$11,368 · US +$35,970 | +$22,648#46 of 50 | +$34,016#28 of 50 | -$11,368 | +$35,970 | IL |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the New York and Illinois numbers say when read together.
New York ranks higher overall
New York leads 6 of the 11 categories to Illinois's 4, with 1 even; Illinois is ahead on affordability and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, New York is ahead on 16 and Illinois on 22.
Illinois is cheaper day to day
Illinois's cost of living index is 100 against 107.9 in New York (US = 100). The typical home costs $526,714 in New York and $297,573 in Illinois. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 a year after typical costs in New York and -$23,834 in Illinois.
Illinois takes a smaller share in taxes
New York collects 13.56% of income in state and local taxes (high across the board); Illinois collects 10.22% (high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack).
New York pays more
Median household income is $85,820 in New York and $83,211 in Illinois, with unemployment at 4.3% and 4.6%. Violent crime runs 368 per 100,000 residents in New York and 251 in Illinois.
Moves between the two run about even
11,082 people moved from New York to Illinois and 7,781 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Illinois for families, New York for retirees
For families, New York ranks #29 of 50 and Illinois #23; for retirees, New York ranks #25 and Illinois #47.
New York vs Illinois: frequently asked questions
Is New York or Illinois better to live in?
New York ranks #29 of 50 overall and Illinois #39 as of the latest release. Illinois is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 100 vs 107.9), has a 3.3-point lower tax burden, and has a 32% lower violent crime rate. New York scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is New York cheaper than Illinois?
Illinois is cheaper than New York: cost of living index 100 vs 107.9 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$43,228 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in New York, and -$23,834 in Illinois. The typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $297,573 in Illinois.
Which has lower taxes, New York or Illinois?
Illinois has the lower tax burden: 10.22% of income in state and local taxes vs 13.56% in New York. New York's top income tax rate is 14.78%, its effective property tax rate 1.64% and its combined sales tax 8.54%; Illinois's are 4.95%, 2.11% and 8.96%.
Is New York safer than Illinois?
Illinois is safer: 251 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 368 in New York, per the FBI. New York ranks #35 of 50 for violent crime and Illinois #20. Property crime is 1,575 per 100,000 in New York and 1,508 in Illinois. The safest tracked cities are White Plains, NY, and Orland Park, IL.
Are homes more expensive in New York or Illinois?
Homes are 77% more expensive in New York: the typical home value is $526,714 in New York and $297,573 in Illinois. Buying the typical home takes about $140,709 of household income in New York and $93,442 in Illinois, against median incomes of $85,820 and $83,211.
Do people earn more in New York or Illinois?
New York pays more: median household income is $85,820 vs $83,211 in Illinois, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.3% in New York and 4.6% in Illinois. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, New York's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 11 after adjusting for local costs and Illinois's in 1, with 8 even.
Are more people moving from New York to Illinois or from Illinois to New York?
4,436 households moved from New York to Illinois and 5,325 moved from Illinois to New York in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 889 households for New York. Movers to Illinois reported an average income of $133,756; movers to New York reported $118,118. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 11,082 people (±3,600) moving from New York to Illinois and 7,781 (±1,903) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, New York or Illinois?
New York is the better fit for retirees: #25 of 50 on the retiree index vs #47 for Illinois. New York has high across the board; Illinois has high property tax, high sales tax, with income tax in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$22,648 left after typical costs in New York and +$34,016 in Illinois.
Which is better for families, New York or Illinois?
Illinois is the better fit for families: #23 of 50 on the families index vs #29 for New York. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in New York and $19,601 in Illinois. High school graduation rates are 86.7% and 87.3%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$43,228 after typical costs in New York and -$23,834 in Illinois.
Is Illinois better than New York?
No: New York ranks higher than Illinois overall, #29 of 50 vs #39, with a composite score of 54.9 to 47.6. New York leads 6 of 11 categories and Illinois leads 4, including affordability and safety. 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 New York vs Illinois.
Why this pair is featured: major moving corridor, most-searched matchup (5,325 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).