Chicago, IL vs Kent, WA: 100 vs 145

$1,380/mo ↓ 25%

Median Rent

$1,833/mo ↑ 33%

$75,134/yr ↓ 17%

Median Income

$90,416/yr ↑ 20%

$315,200 ↓ 41%

Home Value

$537,500 ↑ 71%

$1,502/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,915/mo ↑ 27%

2,707,648

Population

135,015

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Kent, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 145 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $453/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $5,436/year.

Median household income is $15,282/year higher in Kent. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $537,500 in Kent.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Kent residents a significant tax advantage over Illinois's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Kent — common questions

Is Chicago or Kent cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 145 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Kent?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Kent it's $1,833/month — a difference of $453/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Kent?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $90,416 in Kent. Median household income is $15,282/year higher in Kent.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Washington?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Kent?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Kent has a cost index of 145 with rent of $1,833/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Kent, WA (2026)

Chicago

Kent

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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