Chicago, IL vs Raleigh, NC: 100 vs 110

$1,380/mo ↓ 6%

Median Rent

$1,468/mo ↑ 6%

$75,134/yr ↓ 9%

Median Income

$82,424/yr ↑ 10%

$315,200 ↓ 17%

Home Value

$377,800 ↑ 20%

$1,502/mo ↑ 1%

Owner Costs

$1,487/mo ≈ Same

2,707,648

Population

470,763

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Raleigh, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 110 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $88/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $1,056/year.

Median household income is $7,290/year higher in Raleigh. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $377,800 in Raleigh.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Raleigh slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Raleigh — common questions

Is Chicago or Raleigh cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 110 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Raleigh?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Raleigh it's $1,468/month — a difference of $88/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Raleigh?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $82,424 in Raleigh. Median household income is $7,290/year higher in Raleigh.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and North Carolina?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Raleigh?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with rent of $1,468/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Raleigh, NC (2026)

Chicago

Raleigh

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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