Oak Lawn, IL vs. Naperville, IL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Many assume Naperville is more affordable than Oak Lawn due to its distance from Chicago. But is that really true? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Oak Lawn and Naperville. It’s perfect for families relocating to the Chicago suburbs, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life costs of living in Oak Lawn vs Naperville in 2025.
Housing Costs: Oak Lawn vs Naperville
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between Oak Lawn and Naperville:
| Housing Type | Oak Lawn | Naperville |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $265,000 | $450,000 |
| Mortgage Payment (20% down) | $1,060/mo | $1,800/mo |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,300/mo | $1,800/mo |
🏆 Winner: Oak Lawn. Housing costs are significantly lower in Oak Lawn compared to Naperville. A household moving from Naperville to Oak Lawn might save $400-700 per month on housing alone.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $150-200 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash services for a typical home in either Oak Lawn or Naperville.
Both cities experience cold winters and mild summers. Winter heating bills will be higher than summer cooling costs. Opting into off-peak plans from ComEd or Nicor Gas can help manage utility expenses.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable between Oak Lawn and Naperville.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, dining out, and everyday goods cost about the same in Oak Lawn and Naperville. Expect to budget around $400-600 per month for groceries for a family of 4 in either city.
Restaurant prices are also similar. A meal at a mid-range restaurant averages $50-60 for two people in both Oak Lawn and Naperville.
🏆 Winner: Tie. The costs of groceries and daily expenses are nearly identical in Oak Lawn and Naperville. See some sample monthly budgets for living in Oak Lawn to estimate your spending.
Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are the main difference in taxes and fees between Oak Lawn and Naperville. The median annual property tax in Oak Lawn is around $5,000, while in Naperville it’s closer to $8,000 for a similarly valued home.
Sales tax rates are 10% in Oak Lawn and 7.75% in Naperville. Vehicle stickers and city service fees are comparable between the two.
🏆 Winner: Oak Lawn. Lower property taxes give Oak Lawn the edge over Naperville when it comes to taxes and fees. This is a key factor in Oak Lawn’s overall lower cost of living.
Full Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Oak Lawn | Naperville |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,060 – $1,300 | $1,800 |
| Utilities | $150 – $200 | $150 – $200 |
| Groceries | $400 – $600 | $400 – $600 |
| Transportation | $60 – $80 | $60 – $80 |
| Taxes | $400 – $500 | $600 – $800 |
| Misc Expenses | $200 – $400 | $200 – $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,270 – $3,080 | $3,210 – $3,880 |
Note: All figures are estimates based on a gross monthly income (pre-tax) for a typical family of four. Your actual costs may vary.
Lifestyle Fit: Oak Lawn vs Naperville
While more affordable, Oak Lawn offers a denser suburban feel with smaller lots and homes. Naperville has larger properties but longer commutes to Chicago.
Oak Lawn is more walkable, with an average Walk Score of 60 compared to Naperville’s 35. However, Naperville has more extensive bike trails and forest preserves.
Both cities are very safe, with crime rates well below the national average. Naperville does have a slight edge in school rankings and diversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oak Lawn more affordable than Naperville?
Yes, the cost of living in Oak Lawn is about 10-20% lower than Naperville, mainly due to less expensive housing and lower property taxes.
Which city has lower rent prices?
Oak Lawn has lower rent, with a typical 2BR apartment around $1,300 compared to $1,800 in Naperville.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Oak Lawn has lower home prices, with a median of $265,000 versus $450,000 in Naperville. Mortgage payments and property taxes are also lower in Oak Lawn.
Conclusion
Overall, Oak Lawn offers a lower cost of living than Naperville, especially for housing expenses. Oak Lawn can be a great fit for those prioritizing affordability and easier access to Chicago.
However, Naperville’s higher housing costs come with perks like top-rated schools, more open space, and a family-friendly vibe. It’s ideal for those with more flexible budgets seeking a tranquil suburban lifestyle.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific budget, housing needs, and lifestyle preferences. Be sure to compare personalized cost of living breakdowns for other Chicago suburbs before deciding on your move. And if you do relocate, consider if moving pods or trucks are best for your needs and budget.