Peoria vs Worcester for Families (2026)
A family-focused comparison of housing, income, taxes, and overall affordability in Peoria, IL vs Worcester, MA.
- 2BR rent: $1,400/mo in Peoria vs $2,300/mo — 39% difference
- More affordable homeownership in Peoria: $175K median vs $380K
- Higher median household income in Worcester: $58K/yr vs $50K
Family cost comparison
| Metric | Peoria Illinois | Worcester Massachusetts |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR rent/month | $1,400Better | $2,300 |
| Median home price | $175KBetter | $380K |
| Median household income | $50K | $58KBetter |
| Est. childcare/month | $1,079Better | $1,404 |
| State income tax | 5%Better | 5% |
| Sales tax (combined) | 8.5% | 6.3%Better |
Frequently asked questions
Which city is better for raising a family — Peoria or Worcester?
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 Peoria vs Worcester?
As of Q1 2026, median 2BR rent is $1,400/month in Peoria and $2,300/month in Worcester. Peoria is 39% cheaper for a 2-bedroom apartment.
Can a family afford to buy a home in Peoria or Worcester?
The price-to-income ratio in Peoria is 3.5× ($175K home, $50K income) vs 6.6× in Worcester. A ratio below 3× is generally considered affordable. Peoria is more achievable for first-time family homebuyers.
How much does childcare cost in Peoria vs Worcester?
Based on cost-of-living indices, estimated childcare (infant/toddler) runs approximately $1,079/month in Peoria and $1,404/month in Worcester. These are estimates — actual costs vary by provider and program type.
Which city has lower taxes for families?
Peoria has a 5% state income tax rate vs Worcester's 5% rate. For a dual-income family earning $120K combined, the difference can mean $0+/month in take-home.
Childcare estimates based on national average scaled by COL index. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation · Q1 2026
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