Chicago, IL vs Omaha, NE: 100 vs 80

$1,380/mo ↑ 20%

Median Rent

$1,150/mo ↓ 17%

$75,134/yr ↑ 3%

Median Income

$72,708/yr ↓ 3%

$315,200 ↑ 37%

Home Value

$230,100 ↓ 27%

$1,502/mo ↑ 20%

Owner Costs

$1,249/mo ↓ 17%

2,707,648

Population

488,197

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Omaha, NE, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 80 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $230/month cheaper in Omaha, saving renters about $2,760/year.

Median household income is $2,426/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $230,100 in Omaha.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Omaha — common questions

Is Chicago or Omaha cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Omaha is cheaper to live in with an index of 80 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Omaha?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Omaha it's $1,150/month — a difference of $230/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Omaha?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $72,708 in Omaha. Median household income is $2,426/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Nebraska?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Nebraska has 6.64% income tax, 5.5% sales tax, and 1.73% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Omaha?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Omaha has a cost index of 80 with rent of $1,150/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Omaha, NE (2026)

Chicago

Omaha

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons