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Cost of Living in Highland Park

Is it better to rent or buy in Highland Park? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$109,865
$1,857/mo

Median in area: $1,857

$465,100

Median in area: $465,100

$93,020

If you Rent

$1,987 /mo
Base Rent$1,857
Est. Utilities$130
% of Income21.7%
Pre-tax Residual$7,168

If you Buy

$3,521 /mo
P&I (6.853%)$2,439
Taxes & Ins$952
Est. Utilities$130
% of Income38.5%
Pre-tax Residual$5,635

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Highland Park?

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Highland Park. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,987, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $3,521 per month (a difference of $1,534).

How much do utilities cost in Highland Park?

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Highland Park is approximately $130. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Highland Park?

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Highland Park without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $79,480 per year.