Chicago, IL vs Rochester, NY: 100 vs 61

$1,380/mo ↑ 33%

Median Rent

$1,039/mo ↓ 25%

$75,134/yr ↑ 61%

Median Income

$46,628/yr ↓ 38%

$315,200 ↑ 161%

Home Value

$120,600 ↓ 62%

$1,502/mo ↑ 49%

Owner Costs

$1,009/mo ↓ 33%

2,707,648

Population

209,720

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Rochester, NY, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 61 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $341/month cheaper in Rochester, saving renters about $4,092/year.

Median household income is $28,506/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $120,600 in Rochester.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Rochester — common questions

Is Chicago or Rochester cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Rochester?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Rochester it's $1,039/month — a difference of $341/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Rochester?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $46,628 in Rochester. Median household income is $28,506/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and New York?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Rochester?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Rochester has a cost index of 61 with rent of $1,039/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Rochester, NY (2026)

Chicago

Rochester

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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