salaryBuffalo is 8% 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
$1,397
$1,983
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,121
$1,622
💵 Families earn per year
$53,969
$84,017
🔑 Buying a house
$164,200
$334,100
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
95.8
103.6
🏛️ Property tax per year
$1,622
$4,943
⚡ Electric bill per month
$99
$90
👥 People living there
276,854
2,711,226
Commute to work
19.9 min
33.1 min
College degree
31.2%
44.3%
Own their home
43%
46%
Below poverty line
26%
16.8%
Unemployment
7.3%
8%
Bottom line
- Pick Buffalo 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 | Buffalo | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $72,230 | $103,380 | +43% in Chicago |
| Police Officer | $80,950 | $107,810 | +33% in Chicago |
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $46,580 | $31,200 | -33% in Chicago |
| Electrician | $77,930 | $102,350 | +31% in Chicago |
| Carpenter | $63,500 | $80,440 | +27% in Chicago |
| Lawyer | $130,800 | $165,660 | +27% in Chicago |
| HVAC Technician | $62,180 | $77,960 | +25% in Chicago |
| Licensed Practical Nurse | $63,370 | $78,070 | +23% in Chicago |
Frequently asked questions
Is Buffalo or Chicago cheaper to live in?
Buffalo is about 8% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,397 a month there versus $1,983 in Chicago.
What salary do I need in Chicago to match $60,000 in Buffalo?
About $64,852 a year gives the same standard of living in Chicago.
Where do people earn more, Buffalo or Chicago?
The typical household earns $53,969 in Buffalo and $84,017 in Chicago, 36% more in Chicago.