salaryChicago 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
$3,112
$1,983
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$2,480
$1,622
💵 Families earn per year
$104,986
$84,017
🔑 Buying a house
$731,700
$334,100
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
108.3
103.6
🏛️ Property tax per year
$4,456
$4,943
⚡ Electric bill per month
$113
$90
👥 People living there
666,442
2,711,226
Commute to work
30.3 min
33.1 min
College degree
54.9%
44.3%
Own their home
35.7%
46%
Below poverty line
16.6%
16.8%
Unemployment
6.1%
8%
Bottom line
- Pick Boston for higher incomes, shorter commutes, a more educated workforce and 2 more.
- Pick Chicago for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Boston | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer | $78,180 | $107,810 | +38% in Chicago |
| Electrician | $79,910 | $102,350 | +28% in Chicago |
| Market Research Analyst | $102,390 | $80,400 | -21% in Chicago |
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $39,270 | $31,200 | -21% in Chicago |
| Elementary School Teacher | $98,060 | $78,390 | -20% in Chicago |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $129,180 | $103,490 | -20% in Chicago |
| Software Developer | $166,090 | $134,380 | -19% in Chicago |
| Operations Manager | $133,800 | $109,390 | -18% in Chicago |
Frequently asked questions
Is Boston or Chicago cheaper to live in?
Chicago is about 4% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,983 a month there versus $3,112 in Boston.
What salary do I need in Chicago to match $60,000 in Boston?
About $57,411 a year gives the same standard of living in Chicago.
Where do people earn more, Boston or Chicago?
The typical household earns $104,986 in Boston and $84,017 in Chicago, 25% more in Boston.