Chicago, IL vs Macon, GA: 100 vs 65

$1,380/mo ↑ 35%

Median Rent

$1,026/mo ↓ 26%

$75,134/yr ↑ 48%

Median Income

$50,747/yr ↓ 32%

$315,200 ↑ 90%

Home Value

$165,800 ↓ 47%

$1,502/mo ↑ 48%

Owner Costs

$1,016/mo ↓ 32%

2,707,648

Population

156,543

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Macon, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 65 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $354/month cheaper in Macon, saving renters about $4,248/year.

Median household income is $24,387/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $165,800 in Macon.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Macon — common questions

Is Chicago or Macon cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Macon is cheaper to live in with an index of 65 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Macon?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Macon it's $1,026/month — a difference of $354/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Macon?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $50,747 in Macon. Median household income is $24,387/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Georgia?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Macon?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Macon has a cost index of 65 with rent of $1,026/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Macon, GA (2026)

Chicago

Macon

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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