Chicago, IL vs Charlotte, NC: 100 vs 108

$1,380/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$1,504/mo ↑ 9%

$75,134/yr ↓ 4%

Median Income

$78,438/yr ↑ 4%

$315,200 ↓ 10%

Home Value

$351,500 ↑ 12%

$1,502/mo ↑ 1%

Owner Costs

$1,487/mo ≈ Same

2,707,648

Population

886,283

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Charlotte, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 108 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $124/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $1,488/year.

Median household income is $3,304/year higher in Charlotte. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $351,500 in Charlotte.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Charlotte slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Charlotte — common questions

Is Chicago or Charlotte cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 108 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Charlotte?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Charlotte it's $1,504/month — a difference of $124/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Charlotte?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $78,438 in Charlotte. Median household income is $3,304/year higher in Charlotte.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and North Carolina?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Charlotte?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Charlotte has a cost index of 108 with rent of $1,504/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Charlotte, NC (2026)

Chicago

Charlotte

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons