Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
32% cheaper
Naperville is 32% more affordable than Oakland. A $75,000 salary in Oakland is equivalent to $50,909 in Naperville.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Illinois salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Naperville has a housing index of 130 while Oakland sits at 264 (national average = 100). The median home in Naperville costs $430,000 compared to $780,000 in Oakland, a difference of $350,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,800 in Naperville versus $2,700 in Oakland.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Naperville scores 104 while Oakland scores 109.
Healthcare costs in Naperville (101) are lower than Oakland (113).
Median household income in Naperville is $118,254 compared to $73,692 in Oakland. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Naperville.
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