Chicago, IL vs San Bernardino, CA: 100 vs 109

$1,380/mo ↓ 4%

Median Rent

$1,433/mo ↑ 4%

$75,134/yr ↑ 17%

Median Income

$63,988/yr ↓ 15%

$315,200 ↓ 18%

Home Value

$384,900 ↑ 22%

$1,502/mo ↑ 2%

Owner Costs

$1,478/mo ↓ 2%

2,707,648

Population

221,774

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and San Bernardino, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 109 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $53/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $636/year.

Median household income is $11,146/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $384,900 in San Bernardino.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs San Bernardino — common questions

Is Chicago or San Bernardino cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 109 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and San Bernardino?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in San Bernardino it's $1,433/month — a difference of $53/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or San Bernardino?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $63,988 in San Bernardino. Median household income is $11,146/year higher in Chicago.

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 San Bernardino?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while San Bernardino has a cost index of 109 with rent of $1,433/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Chicago

San Bernardino

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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