Chicago, IL vs Pomona, CA: 100 vs 143

$1,380/mo ↓ 21%

Median Rent

$1,738/mo ↑ 26%

$75,134/yr ↓ 5%

Median Income

$78,869/yr ↑ 5%

$315,200 ↓ 45%

Home Value

$569,600 ↑ 81%

$1,502/mo ↓ 15%

Owner Costs

$1,758/mo ↑ 17%

2,707,648

Population

148,391

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Pomona, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 143 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $358/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $4,296/year.

Median household income is $3,735/year higher in Pomona. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $569,600 in Pomona.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Pomona — common questions

Is Chicago or Pomona cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 143 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Pomona?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Pomona it's $1,738/month — a difference of $358/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Pomona?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $78,869 in Pomona. Median household income is $3,735/year higher in Pomona.

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 Pomona?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Pomona has a cost index of 143 with rent of $1,738/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Chicago

Pomona

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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