Chicago, IL vs Mesa, AZ: 100 vs 107

$1,380/mo ↓ 7%

Median Rent

$1,478/mo ↑ 7%

$75,134/yr ↓ 5%

Median Income

$78,779/yr ↑ 5%

$315,200 ↓ 13%

Home Value

$364,300 ↑ 16%

$1,502/mo ↑ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,404/mo ↓ 7%

2,707,648

Population

507,478

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Mesa, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 107 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $98/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $1,176/year.

Median household income is $3,645/year higher in Mesa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $364,300 in Mesa.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Mesa slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Mesa — common questions

Is Chicago or Mesa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 107 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Mesa?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Mesa it's $1,478/month — a difference of $98/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Mesa?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $78,779 in Mesa. Median household income is $3,645/year higher in Mesa.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Arizona?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Mesa?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Mesa has a cost index of 107 with rent of $1,478/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Mesa, AZ (2026)

Chicago

Mesa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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