Chicago, IL vs Baltimore, MD: 100 vs 84

$1,380/mo ↑ 7%

Median Rent

$1,290/mo ↓ 7%

$75,134/yr ↑ 26%

Median Income

$59,623/yr ↓ 21%

$315,200 ↑ 44%

Home Value

$219,300 ↓ 30%

$1,502/mo ↑ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,333/mo ↓ 11%

2,707,648

Population

577,193

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Baltimore, MD, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 84 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $90/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $1,080/year.

Median household income is $15,511/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $219,300 in Baltimore.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Baltimore — common questions

Is Chicago or Baltimore cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Baltimore?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Baltimore it's $1,290/month — a difference of $90/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Baltimore?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $59,623 in Baltimore. Median household income is $15,511/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Maryland?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Baltimore?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with rent of $1,290/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Baltimore, MD (2026)

Chicago

Baltimore

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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