Chicago, IL vs Dayton, OH: 100 vs 50

$1,380/mo ↑ 59%

Median Rent

$866/mo ↓ 37%

$75,134/yr ↑ 73%

Median Income

$43,454/yr ↓ 42%

$315,200 ↑ 238%

Home Value

$93,200 ↓ 70%

$1,502/mo ↑ 80%

Owner Costs

$833/mo ↓ 45%

2,707,648

Population

136,741

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Dayton, OH, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 50 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $514/month cheaper in Dayton, saving renters about $6,168/year.

Median household income is $31,680/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $93,200 in Dayton.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Dayton slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Dayton — common questions

Is Chicago or Dayton cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Dayton is cheaper to live in with an index of 50 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Dayton?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Dayton it's $866/month — a difference of $514/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Dayton?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $43,454 in Dayton. Median household income is $31,680/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Ohio?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Dayton?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Dayton has a cost index of 50 with rent of $866/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Dayton, OH (2026)

Chicago

Dayton

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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