Chicago, IL vs Santa Ana, CA: 100 vs 163

$1,380/mo ↓ 30%

Median Rent

$1,975/mo ↑ 43%

$75,134/yr ↓ 15%

Median Income

$88,354/yr ↑ 18%

$315,200 ↓ 52%

Home Value

$657,800 ↑ 109%

$1,502/mo ↓ 24%

Owner Costs

$1,965/mo ↑ 31%

2,707,648

Population

311,639

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Santa Ana, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 163 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $595/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $7,140/year.

Median household income is $13,220/year higher in Santa Ana. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $657,800 in Santa Ana.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Santa Ana — common questions

Is Chicago or Santa Ana cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 163 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Santa Ana?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Santa Ana it's $1,975/month — a difference of $595/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Santa Ana?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $88,354 in Santa Ana. Median household income is $13,220/year higher in Santa Ana.

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 Santa Ana?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Santa Ana has a cost index of 163 with rent of $1,975/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Santa Ana, CA (2026)

Chicago

Santa Ana

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons