Chicago, IL vs Montgomery, AL: 100 vs 64

$1,380/mo ↑ 30%

Median Rent

$1,059/mo ↓ 23%

$75,134/yr ↑ 35%

Median Income

$55,687/yr ↓ 26%

$315,200 ↑ 112%

Home Value

$148,500 ↓ 53%

$1,502/mo ↑ 47%

Owner Costs

$1,023/mo ↓ 32%

2,707,648

Population

198,440

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Montgomery, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 64 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $321/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $3,852/year.

Median household income is $19,447/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $148,500 in Montgomery.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Montgomery — common questions

Is Chicago or Montgomery cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Montgomery?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Montgomery it's $1,059/month — a difference of $321/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Montgomery?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $55,687 in Montgomery. Median household income is $19,447/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Alabama?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Montgomery?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with rent of $1,059/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Montgomery, AL (2026)

Chicago

Montgomery

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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