About the sameBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Providence to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,983
$1,964
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,622
$1,603
💵 Families earn per year
$84,017
$73,466
🔑 Buying a house
$334,100
$362,200
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
103.6
101.8
🏛️ Property tax per year
$4,943
$4,418
⚡ Electric bill per month
$90
$126
👥 People living there
2,711,226
191,767
Commute to work
33.1 min
25 min
College degree
44.3%
34.6%
Own their home
46%
41.4%
Below poverty line
16.8%
20.7%
Unemployment
8%
8.2%
Bottom line
- Pick Chicago for higher incomes, cheaper homes, a more educated workforce and 2 more.
- Pick Providence for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, shorter commutes.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Chicago | Providence | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer | $107,810 | $76,850 | -29% in Providence |
| Electrician | $102,350 | $73,980 | -28% in Providence |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $103,490 | $128,580 | +24% in Providence |
| Carpenter | $80,440 | $61,910 | -23% in Providence |
| Plumber | $103,380 | $79,820 | -23% in Providence |
| Firefighter | $82,820 | $66,150 | -20% in Providence |
| Lawyer | $165,660 | $133,000 | -20% in Providence |
| Accountant | $82,360 | $95,020 | +15% in Providence |
Frequently asked questions
Is Chicago or Providence cheaper to live in?
Chicago and Providence cost about the same once rent and everyday costs are combined.
What salary do I need in Providence to match $60,000 in Chicago?
About $58,945 a year gives the same standard of living in Providence.
Where do people earn more, Chicago or Providence?
The typical household earns $84,017 in Chicago and $73,466 in Providence, 14% more in Chicago.