Two cities, two very different economic stories. Burlington — with a cost index of 118 — and Terre Haute at 78 offer distinct trade-offs that a single "which is cheaper" question can't capture. This side-by-side analysis covers the significant 40% cost gap across 62 categories, with specific guidance on which city works better for different lifestyles and budgets.
Terre Haute is the more affordable choice between Burlington and Terre Haute, with a 40% lower overall cost index. Terre Haute has the recurring monthly cost edge at roughly $3,237/mo, while Burlington has the stronger salary-side advantage.
This comparison separates lower living costs from higher salary potential so a move decision does not over-credit one number. Use the cards below to see the main trade-offs before going into the full category table.
Terre Haute is ahead on recurring modeled costs, or about $38,844/yr.
Burlington wins 10 total categories; Terre Haute wins 52. Salary categories are judged by higher pay.
ACS median household income differs by about $27,983 between the two cities.
ACS median gross rent is separated by about $727/mo.
Overall Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Burlington | Terre Haute | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | C | A+ | Terre Haute +9pts |
| Housing | D | A+ | Terre Haute +14pts |
| Food | C | A+ | Terre Haute +8pts |
| Healthcare | C | A+ | Terre Haute +7pts |
| Transportation | C | A+ | Terre Haute +8pts |
| Utilities | C | A | Terre Haute +8pts |
Rent, Food, and Utility Differences
Housing
Housing costs are primarily driven by local real estate markets and land values.
Food & Groceries
Food & Groceries costs are primarily driven by local supply chains and regional agriculture.
Healthcare
Healthcare costs are primarily driven by local provider networks and state regulations.
Transportation
Transportation costs are primarily driven by local public transit availability and fuel costs.
Utilities
Utilities costs are primarily driven by local energy sources and climate demands.
Services
Services costs are primarily driven by local labor markets and demand density.
Key Cost Comparisons
Cost of Living
Home Services
Business Startup Costs
Insurance
Legal Services
Salaries & Jobs
Which City Gives You More Buying Power?
The "better" city depends on your situation. Here's how different profiles stack up:
Remote Worker
→ Terre HauteIf your salary doesn't depend on location, Terre Haute's 40% lower costs translate directly into more savings or disposable income. Your paycheck goes further without a pay cut.
Young Professional
→ BurlingtonBurlington's higher costs often come with a stronger job market and faster career progression. The salary premium in competitive industries can offset the higher expenses.
Family with Kids
→ Terre HauteFamilies face multiplied costs — housing, groceries, healthcare, and transportation all scale with household size. Terre Haute's 40% advantage compounds across every budget category.
Small Business Owner
→ Terre HauteLower operating costs in Terre Haute mean lower break-even points. Rent, utilities, insurance, and labor all come in cheaper, giving new businesses more runway to reach profitability.
Retiree
→ Terre HauteOn a fixed income, every percentage point matters. Terre Haute's lower healthcare, housing, and everyday costs help retirement savings last longer.
Salary Equivalent Between Cities
Terre Haute has the lower overall cost index and wins 52 non-salary cost categories.Burlington has the stronger salary edge across 10 salary categories, so wages are shown separately from affordability.
Move Decision Checklist
- Compare rent first: it is usually the biggest swing item between Burlington and Terre Haute.
- Do not mix salary and affordability: use Burlington for pay leverage and Terre Haute for spending power.
- Run the move-shock and salary-needed pages before committing to deposits, movers, or a lease.
Explore Each City
Explore Specific Costs
Dive deeper into specific cost topics for each city:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do housing costs compare between Burlington and Terre Haute?
Housing is typically the biggest cost difference between these cities. Burlington (index: 118) and Terre Haute (index: 78) differ by 40% overall, with housing costs often diverging even more than the average. Check the Cost of Living section above for specific figures.
Which city is better for remote workers?
For remote workers earning a location-independent salary, Terre Haute is the clear winner. The 40% cost advantage means more of your paycheck goes to savings or discretionary spending. Burlington makes more sense if your employer adjusts pay upward for that market.
What is the cost of living index for Burlington vs Terre Haute?
Burlington's cost of living index is 118; Terre Haute's is 78. A score of 100 represents the national average. Burlington is above average; Terre Haute is below average. These figures are derived from BLS and Census data.
Which city has better job opportunities?
Job market strength depends on your industry. Burlington's higher cost index often correlates with a stronger job market and higher wages, particularly in professional services and tech. Median incomes are $48K (Burlington) vs $32K (Terre Haute).
About This Comparison
Limitations: ACS values are official citywide estimates, while some category costs remain modeled. Actual costs may vary by neighborhood, provider, timing, and household needs. Salary data reflects median full-time employment; contract and freelance rates differ. Last updated: May 2026.