Chicago, IL vs Athens, GA: 100 vs 83

$1,380/mo ↑ 19%

Median Rent

$1,162/mo ↓ 16%

$75,134/yr ↑ 45%

Median Income

$51,655/yr ↓ 31%

$315,200 ↑ 16%

Home Value

$271,800 ↓ 14%

$1,502/mo ↑ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,163/mo ↓ 23%

2,707,648

Population

126,987

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Athens, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 83 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $218/month cheaper in Athens, saving renters about $2,616/year.

Median household income is $23,479/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $271,800 in Athens.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Chicago slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Athens — common questions

Is Chicago or Athens cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Athens is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Athens?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Athens it's $1,162/month — a difference of $218/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Athens?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $51,655 in Athens. Median household income is $23,479/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Georgia?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Athens?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Athens has a cost index of 83 with rent of $1,162/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Athens, GA (2026)

Chicago

Athens

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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