Schaumburg, IL vs. Wheaton, IL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which Chicago suburb wins on cost in 2025 – Schaumburg or Wheaton? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison to help families relocating to the Chicago area, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life monthly expenses of living in Schaumburg vs Wheaton. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and home prices compare between Schaumburg and Wheaton:
| Housing Type | Schaumburg | Wheaton |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,800 | $2,100 |
| 3BR Home Price | $350,000 | $450,000 |
🏆 Winner: Schaumburg. Housing costs an estimated 15-20% less in Schaumburg compared to Wheaton.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are a major monthly expense. In Schaumburg and Wheaton, expect to pay around:
- Electricity: $120-150/month
- Gas: $50-80/month
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $60-90/month
Costs rise 20-30% in the peak of summer and winter. Both cities offer level payment plans to help budget.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are very similar between Schaumburg and Wheaton.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, household items, and eating out tend to cost about 5% less in Schaumburg compared to Wheaton. Budget $400-500/month for groceries for a family of 2-3 in Schaumburg vs $450-550 in Wheaton.
🏆 Winner: Schaumburg, but the difference is minor. See a full monthly budget breakdown for Schaumburg.
4. Taxes and Fees
Schaumburg has a slightly lower property tax rate of 2.1% vs 2.3% in Wheaton. For a $350K home, that’s a difference of $58/month. Both cities charge similar vehicle stickers and service fees.
🏆 Winner: Schaumburg has a slight edge on lower property taxes.
5. Cost Summary
| Expense | Schaumburg | Wheaton |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR) | $2,200 | $2,600 |
| Utilities | $250 | $250 |
| Groceries | $500 | $550 |
| Transportation | $200 | $200 |
| Taxes | $612 | $670 |
| Misc | $400 | $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,162 | $4,720 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Schaumburg offers more affordable housing and a busier suburban feel with major employers, malls, and entertainment venues. Wheaton has charming downtown, highly-rated schools, and a quieter residential vibe – for a higher price tag.
Schaumburg is about 5°F warmer than Wheaton in summer. Wheaton gets 10% more rain.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Schaumburg more affordable than Wheaton?
A: Yes, the cost of living is about 10-15% lower in Schaumburg – mainly due to cheaper housing.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Schaumburg. Rent prices are around 15% less than comparable apartments in Wheaton.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Schaumburg. Expect to pay $50-100K less for a similar single-family home compared to Wheaton.
8. Conclusion
While both are desirable Chicago suburbs, Schaumburg offers a meaningfully lower cost of living than Wheaton in 2025 – largely due to more affordable housing. A household moving from Wheaton to Schaumburg might save $400/month on housing alone.
Budget-conscious families, young professionals, and retirees may find their money goes further in Schaumburg. Those prioritizing top schools and a quainter feel may prefer Wheaton if they can afford the premium. See a full cost of living guide for Schaumburg in 2025.