Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $72,661
Population: 715,522
Median Income: $65,781
Population: 2,693,976
When comparing Denver and Chicago, the overall cost of living differs by 10.4%. Denver carries a cost index of 125 compared to Chicago's 112, meaning your dollar stretches 10% further in Chicago.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. Chicago has a housing index of 118 compared to Denver's 148. This 30-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in Chicago.
Denver is more affordable for: Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Taxes.
Chicago is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Entertainment.
If you earn $60,000 in Denver, you would need $53,760 in Chicago to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $89,600.
The median household income in Denver is $72,661 compared to $65,781 in Chicago. While Denver has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: Denver scores 6/10 while Chicago scores 4/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Denver has an edge in climate with a 7/10 weather score compared to Chicago's 4/10.
Job Market: Denver's job market (8/10) is stronger than Chicago's (7/10).
Chicago is the more affordable option overall, but cost is just one factor in deciding where to live. Consider your career opportunities, family needs, and lifestyle preferences alongside the financial comparison. Denver may justify its higher costs with a thriving job market that many residents find worthwhile.
