Bend vs Peoria for Families (2026)
A family-focused comparison of housing, income, taxes, and overall affordability in Bend, OR vs Peoria, IL.
- 2BR rent: $1,400/mo in Peoria vs $2,500/mo — 44% difference
- More affordable homeownership in Peoria: $175K median vs $580K
- Higher median household income in Bend: $68K/yr vs $50K
Family cost comparison
| Metric | Bend Oregon | Peoria Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR rent/month | $2,500 | $1,400Better |
| Median home price | $580K | $175KBetter |
| Median household income | $68KBetter | $50K |
| Est. childcare/month | $1,456 | $1,079Better |
| State income tax | 9.9% | 5%Better |
| Sales tax (combined) | 0%Better | 8.5% |
Frequently asked questions
Which city is better for raising a family — Bend or Peoria?
Based on housing costs, income, and taxes, Peoria scores slightly better for families overall. Peoria has lower 2-bedroom rents, Peoria is more affordable for homebuyers, though both cities have strong family communities.
What is the average 2-bedroom rent in Bend vs Peoria?
As of Q1 2026, median 2BR rent is $2,500/month in Bend and $1,400/month in Peoria. Peoria is 44% cheaper for a 2-bedroom apartment.
Can a family afford to buy a home in Bend or Peoria?
The price-to-income ratio in Bend is 8.5× ($580K home, $68K income) vs 3.5× in Peoria. A ratio below 3× is generally considered affordable. Peoria is more achievable for first-time family homebuyers.
How much does childcare cost in Bend vs Peoria?
Based on cost-of-living indices, estimated childcare (infant/toddler) runs approximately $1,456/month in Bend and $1,079/month in Peoria. These are estimates — actual costs vary by provider and program type.
Which city has lower taxes for families?
Bend has a 9.9% state income tax rate vs Peoria's 5% rate. For a dual-income family earning $120K combined, the difference can mean $294+/month in take-home.
Childcare estimates based on national average scaled by COL index. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation · Q1 2026
See full side-by-side comparison
All cost categories including groceries, utilities, and leisure.