salaryAbout the sameBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Fresno to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,983
$1,789
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,622
$1,484
💵 Families earn per year
$84,017
$76,564
🔑 Buying a house
$334,100
$374,800
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
103.6
102.2
🏛️ Property tax per year
$4,943
$2,723
⚡ Electric bill per month
$90
$202
👥 People living there
2,711,226
545,970
Commute to work
33.1 min
22.4 min
College degree
44.3%
25.5%
Own their home
46%
50.1%
Below poverty line
16.8%
20.1%
Unemployment
8%
8.9%
Bottom line
- Pick Chicago for higher incomes, cheaper homes, a more educated workforce and 2 more.
- Pick Fresno for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, shorter commutes.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Chicago | Fresno | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plumber | $103,380 | $64,400 | -38% in Fresno |
| Electrician | $102,350 | $71,710 | -30% in Fresno |
| Nurse Practitioner | $131,740 | $166,570 | +26% in Fresno |
| Registered Nurse | $100,490 | $125,420 | +25% in Fresno |
| Market Research Analyst | $80,400 | $62,880 | -22% in Fresno |
| Physician Assistant | $127,940 | $155,440 | +21% in Fresno |
| Carpenter | $80,440 | $63,470 | -21% in Fresno |
| Pharmacist | $140,880 | $169,160 | +20% in Fresno |
Frequently asked questions
Is Chicago or Fresno cheaper to live in?
Chicago and Fresno cost about the same once rent and everyday costs are combined.
What salary do I need in Fresno to match $60,000 in Chicago?
About $59,168 a year gives the same standard of living in Fresno.
Where do people earn more, Chicago or Fresno?
The typical household earns $84,017 in Chicago and $76,564 in Fresno, 10% more in Chicago.