Chicago, IL vs Lowell, MA: 100 vs 119

$1,380/mo ↓ 14%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 16%

$75,134/yr ↓ 1%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↑ 1%

$315,200 ↓ 20%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 25%

$1,502/mo ↓ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 11%

2,707,648

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $223/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $2,676/year.

Median household income is $1,071/year higher in Lowell. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Lowell — common questions

Is Chicago or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Lowell?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $223/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Lowell?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $1,071/year higher in Lowell.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Massachusetts?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Lowell has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,603/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Chicago

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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