Chicago, IL vs Salem, OR: 100 vs 105

$1,380/mo ↑ 4%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↓ 4%

$75,134/yr ↑ 4%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↓ 4%

$315,200 ↓ 18%

Home Value

$382,400 ↑ 21%

$1,502/mo ↑ 4%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↓ 4%

2,707,648

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $57/month cheaper in Salem, saving renters about $684/year.

Median household income is $3,234/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Salem — common questions

Is Chicago or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Salem?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $57/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Salem?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $3,234/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Oregon?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Salem, OR (2026)

Chicago

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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