Chicago vs Raleigh
Cost of Living Comparison
Raleigh is 29% cheaper than Chicago
Chicago, IL
ExpensiveRaleigh, NC
AverageDetailed Comparison
| Category | Chicago | Raleigh | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 143 | 114 | +29% |
| 1BR Rent (Monthly) | $2,310 | $1,529 | +$781 |
| State Income Tax | 5.0% | 5.3% | -0.3% |
| Population | 2,746,388 | 467,665 | — |
💰 Salary Equivalent Calculator
How much would you need to earn to maintain the same lifestyle?
$100,000 in
Chicago
Equivalent to
$79,720 in Raleigh
Based on cost of living index comparison. Use our full calculator for personalized results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago or Raleigh cheaper to live in?▼
Raleigh is 29% cheaper to live in than Chicago. The cost of living index in Raleigh is 114, compared to 143 in Chicago. This means everyday expenses like groceries, transportation, and utilities cost less in Raleigh.
What is the rent difference between Chicago and Raleigh?▼
A 1-bedroom apartment in Chicago costs $2,310/month on average, while in Raleigh it costs $1,529/month. That's a difference of $781/month, or $9,372/year.
Which city has lower taxes?▼
Chicago has lower state income taxes.Chicago has a 5.0% state income tax rate, while Raleigh has a 5.3% rate.
What salary do I need in Raleigh to match my lifestyle in Chicago?▼
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need to earn approximately $79,720 in Raleighto match a $100,000 salary in Chicago. Use our full calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your actual salary and lifestyle preferences.
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