Chicago, IL vs McKinney, TX: 100 vs 138

$1,380/mo ↓ 25%

Median Rent

$1,841/mo ↑ 33%

$75,134/yr ↓ 38%

Median Income

$120,273/yr ↑ 60%

$315,200 ↓ 28%

Home Value

$439,500 ↑ 39%

$1,502/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$2,101/mo ↑ 40%

2,707,648

Population

202,314

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and McKinney, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 138 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $461/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $5,532/year.

Median household income is $45,139/year higher in McKinney. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $439,500 in McKinney.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs McKinney — common questions

Is Chicago or McKinney cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 138 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and McKinney?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in McKinney it's $1,841/month — a difference of $461/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or McKinney?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $120,273 in McKinney. Median household income is $45,139/year higher in McKinney.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Texas?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or McKinney?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while McKinney has a cost index of 138 with rent of $1,841/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs McKinney, TX (2026)

Chicago

McKinney

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons