Chicago, IL vs Fremont, CA: 100 vs 278

$1,380/mo ↓ 52%

Median Rent

$2,905/mo ↑ 111%

$75,134/yr ↓ 57%

Median Income

$176,350/yr ↑ 135%

$315,200 ↓ 76%

Home Value

$1,289,400 ↑ 309%

$1,502/mo ↓ 50%

Owner Costs

$3,000/mo ↑ 100%

2,707,648

Population

228,518

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Fremont, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 278 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,525/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $18,300/year.

Median household income is $101,216/year higher in Fremont. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $1,289,400 in Fremont.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Fremont — common questions

Is Chicago or Fremont cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 278 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Fremont?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Fremont it's $2,905/month — a difference of $1,525/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Fremont?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $176,350 in Fremont. Median household income is $101,216/year higher in Fremont.

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 Fremont?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Fremont has a cost index of 278 with rent of $2,905/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Chicago

Fremont

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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