Chicago, IL vs Ventura, CA: 100 vs 183

$1,380/mo ↓ 34%

Median Rent

$2,101/mo ↑ 52%

$75,134/yr ↓ 25%

Median Income

$100,407/yr ↑ 34%

$315,200 ↓ 60%

Home Value

$778,700 ↑ 147%

$1,502/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$2,118/mo ↑ 41%

2,707,648

Population

109,900

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Ventura, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 183 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $721/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $8,652/year.

Median household income is $25,273/year higher in Ventura. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $778,700 in Ventura.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Ventura — common questions

Is Chicago or Ventura cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chicago is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 183 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Ventura?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Ventura it's $2,101/month — a difference of $721/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Ventura?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $100,407 in Ventura. Median household income is $25,273/year higher in Ventura.

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 Ventura?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/mo, while Ventura has a cost index of 183 with rent of $2,101/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Chicago

Ventura

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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