Chicago, IL vs Atlanta, GA: 100 vs 122

$1,380/mo ↓ 15%

Median Rent

$1,617/mo ↑ 17%

$75,134/yr ↓ 8%

Median Income

$81,938/yr ↑ 9%

$315,200 ↓ 25%

Home Value

$420,600 ↑ 33%

$1,502/mo ↓ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,695/mo ↑ 13%

2,707,648

Population

499,287

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Atlanta, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 122 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $237/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $2,844/year.

Median household income is $6,804/year higher in Atlanta. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $420,600 in Atlanta.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Atlanta — common questions

Is Chicago or Atlanta cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 122 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Atlanta?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Atlanta it's $1,617/month — a difference of $237/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Atlanta?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $81,938 in Atlanta. Median household income is $6,804/year higher in Atlanta.

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 Atlanta?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Atlanta has a cost index of 122 with rent of $1,617/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Chicago

Atlanta

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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