Peoria vs. Makassar: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Peoria demonstrates a significantly higher GDP per capita ($74,600) compared to Makassar ($13,900), reflecting a more developed economy. However, Makassar exhibits a higher economic growth rate (5.05%) versus Peoria's 2.89%, suggesting a faster-growing market despite the lower base. Both cities show modest population growth rates of 0.67% and 0.73% respectively, indicating stable but slow expansion. Peoria's higher average net salary ($4,360/month vs. $227.47/month) aligns with its greater economic output, while Makassar's lower salary reflects its lower cost structure and developing economy.

Makassar presents substantially lower absolute property costs, with apartment prices ranging from $593/m² to $1,483/m², significantly below Peoria's $746/m² to $74,600/m² range. Despite the lower absolute costs in Makassar, its property price to income ratio (22.83) is considerably higher than Peoria's (0.37), indicating that housing represents a larger proportion of income for residents in Makassar. This suggests that while Makassar offers more affordable absolute housing, it may still present a heavier financial burden relatively. Peoria's property market shows a higher price point but with a much lower ratio, making it potentially more affordable for its income level.

Makassar offers significantly lower transportation costs, with a monthly public transport pass costing just $4.45 versus Peoria's $100. However, Makassar's longer commute times dramatically impact quality of life, with an estimated 43.33 hours annually spent commuting compared to Peoria's 16.66 hours. Utilities are substantially cheaper in Makassar ($123.63/month) than in Peoria ($468.66/month), though the difference is less pronounced than for transportation.

Childcare costs show a relatively small difference between the two cities, with monthly fees around $100.88 in Makassar and $360 in Peoria. While Peoria's higher salaries would make childcare a smaller percentage of income, the absolute cost difference is notable. Educational quality, particularly for international standards, would likely favor Peoria due to its higher GDP and developed economy context.

Makassar scores considerably lower on key quality-of-life indicators. Its Quality of Life Index stands at 102.64 versus Peoria's 214.58. Makassar's healthcare system is rated lower (64.81) than Peoria's (88.32), though both are below the US average. Safety is a major concern in Makassar (46.99) compared to Peoria's 88.32. Environmental factors also show a stark contrast, with Makassar having a higher Pollution Index (55.99) and lower Climate Index (74.83) than Peoria's 88.32 and 83.33 respectively.