Chicago, IL vs Ontario, CA: 100 vs 152

$1,380/mo ↓ 28%

Median Rent

$1,916/mo ↑ 39%

$75,134/yr ↓ 9%

Median Income

$82,806/yr ↑ 10%

$315,200 ↓ 45%

Home Value

$568,000 ↑ 80%

$1,502/mo ↓ 24%

Owner Costs

$1,967/mo ↑ 31%

2,707,648

Population

178,347

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Ontario, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 152 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $536/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $6,432/year.

Median household income is $7,672/year higher in Ontario. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $568,000 in Ontario.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Ontario — common questions

Is Chicago or Ontario cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 152 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Ontario?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Ontario it's $1,916/month — a difference of $536/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Ontario?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $82,806 in Ontario. Median household income is $7,672/year higher in Ontario.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and California?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Ontario?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Ontario has a cost index of 152 with rent of $1,916/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Ontario, CA (2026)

Chicago

Ontario

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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