salaryAbout the sameBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Chicago to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,648
$1,983
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,611
$1,622
💵 Families earn per year
$81,072
$84,017
🔑 Buying a house
$304,700
$334,100
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
103.1
103.6
🏛️ Property tax per year
$4,716
$4,943
⚡ Electric bill per month
$194
$90
👥 People living there
397,742
2,711,226
Commute to work
26.6 min
33.1 min
College degree
32.6%
44.3%
Own their home
54.3%
46%
Below poverty line
12.9%
16.8%
Unemployment
5.7%
8%
Bottom line
- Pick Arlington for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes and 3 more.
- Pick Chicago for higher incomes, a more educated workforce.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Arlington | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrician | $59,010 | $102,350 | +73% in Chicago |
| Plumber | $61,250 | $103,380 | +69% in Chicago |
| Carpenter | $48,740 | $80,440 | +65% in Chicago |
| HVAC Technician | $59,560 | $77,960 | +31% in Chicago |
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $24,160 | $31,200 | +29% in Chicago |
| Firefighter | $64,900 | $82,820 | +28% in Chicago |
| Nursing Assistant | $38,530 | $46,940 | +22% in Chicago |
| Licensed Practical Nurse | $64,370 | $78,070 | +21% in Chicago |
Frequently asked questions
Is Arlington or Chicago cheaper to live in?
Arlington and Chicago cost about the same once rent and everyday costs are combined.
What salary do I need in Chicago to match $60,000 in Arlington?
About $60,294 a year gives the same standard of living in Chicago.
Where do people earn more, Arlington or Chicago?
The typical household earns $81,072 in Arlington and $84,017 in Chicago, 4% more in Chicago.