Cost of Living in Chicago, IL
Chicago's cost of living index is 107 — 7% more expensive than the national average. Illinois has a state income tax and a statewide COL index of 94.
COL Index
107
100 = national avg
Monthly Budget
$5,350
vs $5,000 national
Population
2.7M
Metro area
State Tax
Yes
Illinois
Monthly Cost Breakdown
Estimated monthly costs in Chicago vs national average for a typical household.
| Category | National Avg | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,650 | $1,823 | +$173 |
| Groceries | $650 | $686 | +$36 |
| Transportation | $800 | $850 | +$50 |
| Healthcare | $400 | $420 | +$20 |
| Utilities | $300 | $321 | +$21 |
| Other | $1,200 | $1,267 | +$67 |
| Total | $5,000 | $5,350 | +$350 |
Salary Equivalent
To maintain the same standard of living in Chicago, a national-average salary translates to:
$50,000 nationally
$53,500
$75,000 nationally
$80,250
$100,000 nationally
$107,000
$150,000 nationally
$160,500