Can I Afford to Live in Peoria vs San Antonio on $40K?

Here's how a $40K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.

Peoria, IL
$2,562/mo take-home
Rent: $1,050/mo (41% of take-home)
Tight
San Antonio, TX
$2,728/mo take-home
Rent: $1,100/mo (40% of take-home)
Tight
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Monthly budget breakdown

Peoria
IL
San Antonio
TX
Monthly take-home (est.)
$2,562
$2,728Best ✓
1BR rent
$1,050Best ✓
$1,100
Groceries (est.)
$361
$353Best ✓
Transport (est.)
$55
$48Best ✓
Utilities
$158Best ✓
$175
Internet
$60Best ✓
$60
Left after essentials
$878/month
$992/month
San Antonio (Texas) has no state income tax, boosting take-home vs Peoria (IL rate: 5%).

Frequently asked questions

Is $40K a good salary in Peoria?

At $40K/year in Peoria, your estimated monthly take-home is $2,562. With 1BR rent around $1,050/month, rent takes up 41% of your take-home. That's considered tight.

Is $40K a good salary in San Antonio?

At $40K/year in San Antonio, your estimated monthly take-home is $2,728. With 1BR rent around $1,100/month, rent takes up 40% of your take-home. That's considered tight.

Which city is more affordable on a $40K salary?

San Antonio leaves you with more money after core expenses — $992/month vs $878/month in Peoria.

Can I afford to live alone in Peoria on $40K?

It's tight. Rent in Peoria would take 41% of your $40K take-home pay. You may need to find roommates or look at studios to stay within the 30% rule.

Compare other salary bands — Peoria vs San Antonio

$50K$60K$75K$80K$100K$120K$150K

See the full cost-of-living comparison

Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.

Full comparison

Take-home estimates use simplified federal/state brackets and do not account for pre-tax deductions, 401(k), or local taxes. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo · Q1 2026 · For general guidance only