Chicago, IL vs Manchester, NH: 100 vs 106

$1,380/mo ↓ 6%

Median Rent

$1,465/mo ↑ 6%

$75,134/yr ↓ 3%

Median Income

$77,415/yr ↑ 3%

$315,200 ↓ 6%

Home Value

$336,300 ↑ 7%

$1,502/mo ↓ 3%

Owner Costs

$1,548/mo ↑ 3%

2,707,648

Population

115,415

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Manchester, NH, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 106 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $85/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $1,020/year.

Median household income is $2,281/year higher in Manchester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $336,300 in Manchester.

New Hampshire has no state income tax, giving Manchester residents a significant tax advantage over Illinois's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Manchester — common questions

Is Chicago or Manchester cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 106 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Manchester?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Manchester it's $1,465/month — a difference of $85/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Manchester?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $77,415 in Manchester. Median household income is $2,281/year higher in Manchester.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and New Hampshire?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. New Hampshire has 0% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 1.86% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Manchester?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Manchester has a cost index of 106 with rent of $1,465/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Manchester, NH (2026)

Chicago

Manchester

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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