Skokie, IL vs. Evanston, IL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Skokie or Evanston? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison to help families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life expenses of living in these two popular Illinois suburbs in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and home prices compare in Skokie vs Evanston:
| Housing Type | Skokie | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,800 | $2,200 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $450,000 | $650,000 |
🏆 Winner: Skokie. Housing costs an estimated 20-30% less in Skokie compared to Evanston. A household moving from Evanston to Skokie might save $400/month on rent alone.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are fairly similar between the two cities. In both Skokie and Evanston, expect to pay around:
- $120/month for electricity
- $40/month for water
- $80/month for natural gas (higher in winter)
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable in Skokie and Evanston.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices tend to be 5-10% lower in Skokie compared to Evanston. For example, a gallon of milk averages $3.50 in Skokie vs $3.80 in Evanston. Eating out is also more affordable – a meal for two at a mid-range Skokie restaurant costs around $50, while a similar meal in Evanston runs closer to $60.
🏆 Winner: Skokie. Expect to spend a bit less on groceries and dining out in Skokie.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both cities have relatively high property taxes (around 2.5% of home value), but Evanston’s higher housing prices mean a bigger tax bill. Skokie’s average effective property tax is $6,500/year vs $8,900/year in Evanston.
🏆 Winner: Skokie. Lower home values = lower property taxes, even at a similar rate.
5. Cost of Living in Skokie vs Evanston
| Expense | Skokie | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $1,800 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $240 | $240 |
| Groceries | $400 | $450 |
| Transportation | $120 | $100 |
| Taxes | $540 | $740 |
| Misc | $500 | $600 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,600 | $4,330 |
Note: All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Skokie offers more affordable living, Evanston has its perks. Evanston has more public transportation options, making it easier to commute downtown without a car. It’s also home to Northwestern University, giving the town a vibrant college feel.
Skokie, on the other hand, tends to be quieter and more residential. In Skokie, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash pickup, offering more space and amenities for the money.
7. FAQ
Is Skokie more affordable than Evanston?
Yes, Skokie is generally 15-20% cheaper than Evanston, especially when it comes to housing.
Which city has lower rent?
Skokie has lower rent prices. A typical 2BR apartment costs $1,800/month in Skokie vs $2,200/month in Evanston.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Skokie has lower home prices and property taxes. The median price of a 3BR house is around $450,000 in Skokie compared to $650,000 in Evanston.
8. Conclusion
Overall, Skokie is the more affordable place to live, with lower costs for housing, groceries, and taxes. However, Evanston’s proximity to Chicago and lively downtown may be worth the extra expense for some.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and priorities. We recommend building a sample monthly budget for Skokie to estimate your individual cost of living in 2025.