Chicago, IL vs Reno, NV: 100 vs 122

$1,380/mo ↓ 5%

Median Rent

$1,453/mo ↑ 5%

$75,134/yr ↓ 4%

Median Income

$78,448/yr ↑ 4%

$315,200 ↓ 37%

Home Value

$498,600 ↑ 58%

$1,502/mo ↑ 1%

Owner Costs

$1,482/mo ↓ 1%

2,707,648

Population

268,959

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Reno, NV, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 122 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $73/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $876/year.

Median household income is $3,314/year higher in Reno. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $498,600 in Reno.

Nevada has no state income tax, giving Reno residents a significant tax advantage over Illinois's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Reno — common questions

Is Chicago or Reno cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 122 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Reno?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Reno it's $1,453/month — a difference of $73/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Reno?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $78,448 in Reno. Median household income is $3,314/year higher in Reno.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Nevada?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Nevada has 0% income tax, 6.85% sales tax, and 0.53% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Reno?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Reno has a cost index of 122 with rent of $1,453/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Reno, NV (2026)

Chicago

Reno

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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