Chicago, IL vs Irvine, CA: 100 vs 256

$1,380/mo ↓ 52%

Median Rent

$2,893/mo ↑ 110%

$75,134/yr ↓ 42%

Median Income

$129,647/yr ↑ 73%

$315,200 ↓ 72%

Home Value

$1,115,400 ↑ 254%

$1,502/mo ↓ 48%

Owner Costs

$2,904/mo ↑ 93%

2,707,648

Population

308,160

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Irvine, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 256 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,513/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $18,156/year.

Median household income is $54,513/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $1,115,400 in Irvine.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Irvine — common questions

Is Chicago or Irvine cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Irvine?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Irvine it's $2,893/month — a difference of $1,513/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Irvine?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $129,647 in Irvine. Median household income is $54,513/year higher in Irvine.

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 Irvine?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Irvine has a cost index of 256 with rent of $2,893/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Chicago

Irvine

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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