salaryAbout the sameBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Phoenix to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,983
$1,893
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,622
$1,729
💵 Families earn per year
$84,017
$87,717
🔑 Buying a house
$334,100
$420,700
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
103.6
103.3
🏛️ Property tax per year
$4,943
$1,850
⚡ Electric bill per month
$90
$181
👥 People living there
2,711,226
1,642,323
Commute to work
33.1 min
25.6 min
College degree
44.3%
33.6%
Own their home
46%
57.3%
Below poverty line
16.8%
13.7%
Unemployment
8%
5%
Bottom line
- Pick Chicago for cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes, a more educated workforce.
- Pick Phoenix for lower rent, higher incomes, shorter commutes and 2 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Chicago | Phoenix | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $31,200 | $47,530 | +52% in Phoenix |
| Electrician | $102,350 | $61,210 | -40% in Phoenix |
| Plumber | $103,380 | $63,750 | -38% in Phoenix |
| Firefighter | $82,820 | $61,780 | -25% in Phoenix |
| Carpenter | $80,440 | $60,320 | -25% in Phoenix |
| Elementary School Teacher | $78,390 | $59,180 | -25% in Phoenix |
| HVAC Technician | $77,960 | $61,170 | -22% in Phoenix |
| Police Officer | $107,810 | $85,050 | -21% in Phoenix |
Frequently asked questions
Is Chicago or Phoenix cheaper to live in?
Chicago and Phoenix cost about the same once rent and everyday costs are combined.
What salary do I need in Phoenix to match $60,000 in Chicago?
About $59,838 a year gives the same standard of living in Phoenix.
Where do people earn more, Chicago or Phoenix?
The typical household earns $84,017 in Chicago and $87,717 in Phoenix, 4% more in Phoenix.