Cicero, IL vs. Oak Park, IL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Deciding between Cicero and Oak Park, two popular Chicago suburbs? This cost of living comparison will help you determine which city best fits your lifestyle and budget in 2025. We’ll break down housing costs, utilities, groceries, taxes, and more to see how Cicero and Oak Park stack up.
Housing Costs: Cicero vs Oak Park
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and home prices compare in Cicero and Oak Park:
| Housing Type | Cicero | Oak Park |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,100 | $1,800 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $250,000 | $550,000 |
🏆 Winner: Cicero. Housing costs are significantly lower in Cicero compared to Oak Park, with savings of $700/month on a typical 2BR apartment. Buying a home is also much more affordable in Cicero.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another important monthly expense. In Cicero, expect to pay around $150/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 2BR apartment. Costs are similar in Oak Park, averaging $160/month.
Both cities experience cold winters and hot summers. Heating bills will be higher December through March, while AC drives up summer electric bills. Look for off-peak plans to save.
🏆 Winner: Cicero, but only slightly. Utility costs are comparable between the two cities.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices are fairly consistent across the Chicago area. Expect to spend around $400/month on groceries for a couple in either Cicero or Oak Park. Eating out is also similarly priced, with a typical meal for two ranging from $40-80.
However, one surprising difference is in childcare costs. Average monthly expenses in Cicero for full-time infant care are $1,200, while in Oak Park it’s closer to $1,800. For a family with young kids, those savings can really add up.
🏆 Winner: Cicero for more affordable childcare. Grocery and restaurant prices are comparable.
Taxes and Fees in Cicero vs Oak Park
Illinois has the second highest property taxes in the nation. In Cicero, the average effective property tax rate is 2.7%, while in Oak Park it’s even higher at 3.4%. For a $300,000 home, that’s a difference of $2,100 per year.
Sales tax is 10% in Cicero and 10.25% in Oak Park. Both cities also charge a small local tax on utilities and streaming services. Cicero’s vehicle sticker fees are slightly lower.
🏆 Winner: Cicero. While both cities have high taxes, Cicero’s property tax rate is notably lower than Oak Park’s.
Cost of Living Summary: Cicero vs Oak Park
| Category | Cicero | Oak Park |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $1,100 | $1,800 |
| Utilities | $150 | $160 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $60 | $80 |
| Taxes (3BR home) | $675 | $1,550 |
| Misc | $200 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,585 | $4,240 |
The table above summarizes the key differences in cost of living in Cicero compared to Oak Park. Housing and taxes are the two biggest factors, with Cicero being significantly more affordable in both areas.
Lifestyle Fit: Cicero or Oak Park?
While cost is important, so is quality of life. Oak Park offers a vibrant downtown, beautiful historic homes, and great schools – but at a premium price. Oak Park is about 20% more densely populated than Cicero.
Cicero has a lower cost of living, but also more modest homes and fewer amenities. The typical commute in Cicero is 5-10 minutes shorter than in Oak Park. Cicero can be a great fit for budget-conscious families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cicero more affordable than Oak Park?
Yes, Cicero has a significantly lower cost of living than Oak Park, especially for housing, childcare, and property taxes.
Which city has lower rent prices?
Rent prices are much lower in Cicero. A typical 2BR apartment rents for $1,100/month in Cicero compared to $1,800/month in Oak Park.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Cicero is more affordable for homebuyers, with a median 3BR home price of $250,000 compared to $550,000 in Oak Park. Property taxes are also lower in Cicero.
Conclusion
For most households, Cicero offers a meaningfully lower cost of living than Oak Park. Housing costs and property taxes are the biggest differentiators, with potential savings of over $1,500/month for a family in Cicero.
However, Oak Park’s higher costs come with perks like great schools, a walkable downtown, and historic homes. It can be a great fit for households who prioritize those amenities and experiences.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and what matters most to you. We hope this comparison of the cost of living in Cicero vs Oak Park has been helpful in your decision! Be sure to check out our other cost of living breakdowns for cities across Illinois.