Chicago, IL vs Gilbert, AZ: 100 vs 148

$1,380/mo ↓ 32%

Median Rent

$2,028/mo ↑ 47%

$75,134/yr ↓ 38%

Median Income

$121,351/yr ↑ 62%

$315,200 ↓ 39%

Home Value

$518,600 ↑ 65%

$1,502/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,908/mo ↑ 27%

2,707,648

Population

271,118

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Gilbert, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 148 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $648/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $7,776/year.

Median household income is $46,217/year higher in Gilbert. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $518,600 in Gilbert.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Gilbert slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Gilbert — common questions

Is Chicago or Gilbert cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 148 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Gilbert?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Gilbert it's $2,028/month — a difference of $648/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Gilbert?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $121,351 in Gilbert. Median household income is $46,217/year higher in Gilbert.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Arizona?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Gilbert?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Gilbert has a cost index of 148 with rent of $2,028/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Gilbert, AZ (2026)

Chicago

Gilbert

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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