Chicago, IL vs Elizabeth, NJ: 100 vs 112

$1,380/mo ↓ 6%

Median Rent

$1,463/mo ↑ 6%

$75,134/yr ↑ 18%

Median Income

$63,874/yr ↓ 15%

$315,200 ↓ 20%

Home Value

$393,500 ↑ 25%

$1,502/mo ↓ 3%

Owner Costs

$1,543/mo ↑ 3%

2,707,648

Population

135,887

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Elizabeth, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 112 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $83/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $996/year.

Median household income is $11,260/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $393,500 in Elizabeth.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Elizabeth — common questions

Is Chicago or Elizabeth cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 112 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Elizabeth?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Elizabeth it's $1,463/month — a difference of $83/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Elizabeth?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $63,874 in Elizabeth. Median household income is $11,260/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and New Jersey?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Elizabeth?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Elizabeth has a cost index of 112 with rent of $1,463/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Elizabeth, NJ (2026)

Chicago

Elizabeth

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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