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
$1,619
$1,983
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,479
$1,622
💵 Families earn per year
$67,058
$84,017
🔑 Buying a house
$229,600
$334,100
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
104.5
103.6
🏛️ Property tax per year
$3,354
$4,943
⚡ Electric bill per month
$157
$90
👥 People living there
573,243
2,711,226
Commute to work
29.1 min
33.1 min
College degree
36.1%
44.3%
Own their home
47.5%
46%
Below poverty line
19.7%
16.8%
Unemployment
6.5%
8%
Bottom line
- Pick Baltimore for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes and 2 more.
- Pick Chicago for higher incomes, a more educated workforce, less poverty.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Baltimore | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $63,200 | $103,380 | +64% in Chicago |
| Electrician | $65,590 | $102,350 | +56% in Chicago |
| Police Officer | $76,530 | $107,810 | +41% in Chicago |
| Carpenter | $62,380 | $80,440 | +29% in Chicago |
| Lawyer | $132,400 | $165,660 | +25% in Chicago |
| HVAC Technician | $63,180 | $77,960 | +23% in Chicago |
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $36,170 | $31,200 | -14% in Chicago |
| Dental Hygienist | $116,130 | $100,260 | -14% in Chicago |
Frequently asked questions
Is Baltimore or Chicago cheaper to live in?
Baltimore 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 Baltimore?
About $59,488 a year gives the same standard of living in Chicago.
Where do people earn more, Baltimore or Chicago?
The typical household earns $67,058 in Baltimore and $84,017 in Chicago, 20% more in Chicago.