Chicago, IL vs Surprise, AZ: 100 vs 126

$1,380/mo ↓ 28%

Median Rent

$1,917/mo ↑ 39%

$75,134/yr ↓ 20%

Median Income

$93,371/yr ↑ 24%

$315,200 ↓ 20%

Home Value

$396,000 ↑ 26%

$1,502/mo ↓ 5%

Owner Costs

$1,587/mo ↑ 6%

2,707,648

Population

149,519

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Surprise, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $537/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $6,444/year.

Median household income is $18,237/year higher in Surprise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $396,000 in Surprise.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Surprise slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Surprise — common questions

Is Chicago or Surprise 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 Surprise?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Surprise it's $1,917/month — a difference of $537/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Surprise?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $93,371 in Surprise. Median household income is $18,237/year higher in Surprise.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Arizona?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Surprise?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Surprise has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,917/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Surprise, AZ (2026)

Chicago

Surprise

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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