Chicago, IL vs Sparks, NV: 100 vs 126

$1,380/mo ↓ 16%

Median Rent

$1,651/mo ↑ 20%

$75,134/yr ↓ 14%

Median Income

$86,979/yr ↑ 16%

$315,200 ↓ 31%

Home Value

$455,900 ↑ 45%

$1,502/mo ↓ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,610/mo ↑ 7%

2,707,648

Population

109,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Sparks, NV, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $271/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $3,252/year.

Median household income is $11,845/year higher in Sparks. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $455,900 in Sparks.

Nevada has no state income tax, giving Sparks residents a significant tax advantage over Illinois's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Sparks — common questions

Is Chicago or Sparks cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Sparks?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Sparks it's $1,651/month — a difference of $271/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Sparks?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $86,979 in Sparks. Median household income is $11,845/year higher in Sparks.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Nevada?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Nevada has 0% income tax, 6.85% sales tax, and 0.53% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Sparks?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Sparks has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,651/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Sparks, NV (2026)

Chicago

Sparks

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons