Chicago, IL vs Olathe, KS: 100 vs 104

$1,380/mo ↑ 5%

Median Rent

$1,314/mo ↓ 5%

$75,134/yr ↓ 33%

Median Income

$112,232/yr ↑ 49%

$315,200 ↓ 7%

Home Value

$340,600 ↑ 8%

$1,502/mo ↓ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,662/mo ↑ 11%

2,707,648

Population

143,720

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Olathe, KS, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 104 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $66/month cheaper in Olathe, saving renters about $792/year.

Median household income is $37,098/year higher in Olathe. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $340,600 in Olathe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Olathe — common questions

Is Chicago or Olathe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 104 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Olathe?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Olathe it's $1,314/month — a difference of $66/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Olathe?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $112,232 in Olathe. Median household income is $37,098/year higher in Olathe.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Kansas?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Olathe?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Olathe has a cost index of 104 with rent of $1,314/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Olathe, KS (2026)

Chicago

Olathe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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