Chicago, IL vs Arvada, CO: 100 vs 152

$1,380/mo ↓ 23%

Median Rent

$1,802/mo ↑ 31%

$75,134/yr ↓ 34%

Median Income

$113,396/yr ↑ 51%

$315,200 ↓ 48%

Home Value

$600,800 ↑ 91%

$1,502/mo ↓ 23%

Owner Costs

$1,948/mo ↑ 30%

2,707,648

Population

122,835

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Arvada, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 152 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $422/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $5,064/year.

Median household income is $38,262/year higher in Arvada. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $600,800 in Arvada.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Arvada slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Arvada — common questions

Is Chicago or Arvada cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 152 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Arvada?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Arvada it's $1,802/month — a difference of $422/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Arvada?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $113,396 in Arvada. Median household income is $38,262/year higher in Arvada.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Colorado?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Arvada?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Arvada has a cost index of 152 with rent of $1,802/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Arvada, CO (2026)

Chicago

Arvada

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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