Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
4% cheaper
Atlanta is 4% more affordable than Naperville. A $75,000 salary in Naperville is equivalent to $71,652 in Atlanta.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Georgia salaries · Illinois salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Atlanta has a housing index of 113 while Naperville sits at 130 (national average = 100). The median home in Atlanta costs $350,000 compared to $430,000 in Naperville, a difference of $80,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Atlanta versus $1,800 in Naperville.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Atlanta scores 104 while Naperville scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Atlanta (101) match Naperville (101). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Atlanta is $59,948 compared to $118,254 in Naperville. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Atlanta.
Amazon affiliate links