Chicago, IL vs Downey, CA: 100 vs 169

$1,380/mo ↓ 27%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 37%

$75,134/yr ↓ 14%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 16%

$315,200 ↓ 57%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 131%

$1,502/mo ↓ 25%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 33%

2,707,648

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $512/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $6,144/year.

Median household income is $12,266/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Downey — common questions

Is Chicago or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Downey?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $512/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Downey?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $12,266/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and California?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Downey, CA (2026)

Chicago

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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