salaryRochester is 6% cheaperBased on official 2024 price levels from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
I need in Rochester to live the same way.
🏠 Rent per month
$1,983
$1,331
🛏️ 2-bedroom rent
$1,622
$1,281
💵 Families earn per year
$84,017
$50,919
🔑 Buying a house
$334,100
$139,600
📊 Overall prices (U.S. = 100)
103.6
97.0
🏛️ Property tax per year
$4,943
$3,152
⚡ Electric bill per month
$90
$155
👥 People living there
2,711,226
208,772
Commute to work
33.1 min
19.3 min
College degree
44.3%
30%
Own their home
46%
38.1%
Below poverty line
16.8%
27.8%
Unemployment
8%
7.9%
Bottom line
- Pick Chicago for higher incomes, a more educated workforce, less poverty.
- Pick Rochester for lower rent, cheaper 2-bedroom apartments, cheaper homes and 2 more.
Pay for the same job
| Job | Chicago | Rochester | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Server (Waiter/Waitress) | $31,200 | $45,310 | +45% in Rochester |
| Plumber | $103,380 | $73,580 | -29% in Rochester |
| Carpenter | $80,440 | $59,490 | -26% in Rochester |
| Electrician | $102,350 | $77,310 | -24% in Rochester |
| Licensed Practical Nurse | $78,070 | $62,060 | -21% in Rochester |
| Elementary School Teacher | $78,390 | $62,840 | -20% in Rochester |
| HVAC Technician | $77,960 | $63,570 | -18% in Rochester |
| Nursing Assistant | $46,940 | $40,050 | -15% in Rochester |
Frequently asked questions
Is Chicago or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Rochester is about 6% cheaper overall. Rent is $1,331 a month there versus $1,983 in Chicago.
What salary do I need in Rochester to match $60,000 in Chicago?
About $56,201 a year gives the same standard of living in Rochester.
Where do people earn more, Chicago or Rochester?
The typical household earns $84,017 in Chicago and $50,919 in Rochester, 65% more in Chicago.