salaryAtlanta is 4% cheaperBased 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
$1,999
$1,983
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,921
$1,622
💵 Families earn per year
$92,376
$84,017
🔑 Buying a house
$439,600
$334,100
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
100.1
103.6
🏛️ Property tax per year
$4,231
$4,943
⚡ Electric bill per month
$128
$90
👥 People living there
505,268
2,711,226
Commute to work
26.5 min
33.1 min
College degree
59.2%
44.3%
Own their home
46.4%
46%
Below poverty line
16.9%
16.8%
Unemployment
5.9%
8%
Bottom line
- Pick Atlanta for higher incomes, shorter commutes, a more educated workforce and 1 more.
- Pick Chicago for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes and 1 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Atlanta | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $58,380 | $103,380 | +77% in Chicago |
| Police Officer | $60,910 | $107,810 | +77% in Chicago |
| Firefighter | $47,300 | $82,820 | +75% in Chicago |
| Electrician | $58,650 | $102,350 | +75% in Chicago |
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $18,460 | $31,200 | +69% in Chicago |
| Carpenter | $50,680 | $80,440 | +59% in Chicago |
| HVAC Technician | $58,970 | $77,960 | +32% in Chicago |
| Licensed Practical Nurse | $65,060 | $78,070 | +20% in Chicago |
Frequently asked questions
Is Atlanta or Chicago cheaper to live in?
Atlanta is about 4% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,999 a month there versus $1,983 in Chicago.
What salary do I need in Chicago to match $60,000 in Atlanta?
About $62,121 a year gives the same standard of living in Chicago.
Where do people earn more, Atlanta or Chicago?
The typical household earns $92,376 in Atlanta and $84,017 in Chicago, 10% more in Atlanta.