Chicago, IL vs Long Beach, CA: 100 vs 169

$1,380/mo ↓ 23%

Median Rent

$1,803/mo ↑ 31%

$75,134/yr ↓ 11%

Median Income

$83,969/yr ↑ 12%

$315,200 ↓ 59%

Home Value

$762,200 ↑ 142%

$1,502/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,890/mo ↑ 26%

2,707,648

Population

458,491

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Long Beach, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $423/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $5,076/year.

Median household income is $8,835/year higher in Long Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $762,200 in Long Beach.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Long Beach — common questions

Is Chicago or Long Beach cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Long Beach?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Long Beach it's $1,803/month — a difference of $423/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Long Beach?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $83,969 in Long Beach. Median household income is $8,835/year higher in Long Beach.

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 Long Beach?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,803/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Chicago

Long Beach

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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