Los Angeles vs Chicago
Cost of Living Comparison
Chicago is 91% cheaper than Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
ExpensiveChicago, IL
ExpensiveDetailed Comparison
| Category | Los Angeles | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 234 | 143 | +91% |
| 1BR Rent (Monthly) | $3,780 | $2,310 | +$1,470 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3% | 5.0% | +4.3% |
| Population | 3,898,747 | 2,746,388 | — |
💰 Salary Equivalent Calculator
How much would you need to earn to maintain the same lifestyle?
$100,000 in
Los Angeles
Equivalent to
$61,111 in Chicago
Based on cost of living index comparison. Use our full calculator for personalized results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Los Angeles or Chicago cheaper to live in?▼
Chicago is 91% cheaper to live in than Los Angeles. The cost of living index in Chicago is 143, compared to 234 in Los Angeles. This means everyday expenses like groceries, transportation, and utilities cost less in Chicago.
What is the rent difference between Los Angeles and Chicago?▼
A 1-bedroom apartment in Los Angeles costs $3,780/month on average, while in Chicago it costs $2,310/month. That's a difference of $1,470/month, or $17,640/year.
Which city has lower taxes?▼
Chicago has lower state income taxes.Los Angeles has a 9.3% state income tax rate, while Chicago has a 5.0% rate.
What salary do I need in Chicago to match my lifestyle in Los Angeles?▼
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need to earn approximately $61,111 in Chicagoto match a $100,000 salary in Los Angeles. Use our full calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your actual salary and lifestyle preferences.
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