Chicago, IL vs San Jose, CA: 100 vs 254

$1,380/mo ↓ 47%

Median Rent

$2,617/mo ↑ 90%

$75,134/yr ↓ 47%

Median Income

$141,565/yr ↑ 88%

$315,200 ↓ 73%

Home Value

$1,187,800 ↑ 277%

$1,502/mo ↓ 46%

Owner Costs

$2,775/mo ↑ 85%

2,707,648

Population

990,054

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and San Jose, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 254 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,237/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $14,844/year.

Median household income is $66,431/year higher in San Jose. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $1,187,800 in San Jose.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs San Jose — common questions

Is Chicago or San Jose cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 254 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and San Jose?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in San Jose it's $2,617/month — a difference of $1,237/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or San Jose?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $141,565 in San Jose. Median household income is $66,431/year higher in San Jose.

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 Jose?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while San Jose has a cost index of 254 with rent of $2,617/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Chicago

San Jose

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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