Chicago, IL vs Ann Arbor, MI: 100 vs 121

$1,380/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$1,552/mo ↑ 12%

$75,134/yr ↓ 7%

Median Income

$81,089/yr ↑ 8%

$315,200 ↓ 28%

Home Value

$435,100 ↑ 38%

$1,502/mo ↓ 8%

Owner Costs

$1,638/mo ↑ 9%

2,707,648

Population

121,179

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $172/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $2,064/year.

Median household income is $5,955/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Ann Arbor slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Chicago or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 121 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Ann Arbor?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $172/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Ann Arbor?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $5,955/year higher in Ann Arbor.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Michigan?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Ann Arbor?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,552/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Chicago

Ann Arbor

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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