Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $69,778
Population: 3,979,576
Median Income: $65,781
Population: 2,693,976
When comparing Los Angeles and Chicago, the overall cost of living differs by 32.5%. Los Angeles carries a cost index of 166 compared to Chicago's 112, meaning your dollar stretches 33% further in Chicago.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. Chicago has a housing index of 118 compared to Los Angeles's 208. This 90-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in Chicago.
Chicago is more affordable across all categories.
Chicago is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in Los Angeles, you would need $40,482 in Chicago to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $67,470.
The median household income in Los Angeles is $69,778 compared to $65,781 in Chicago. While Los Angeles has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: Los Angeles scores 5/10 while Chicago scores 4/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Los Angeles has an edge in climate with a 9/10 weather score compared to Chicago's 4/10.
Job Market: Los Angeles'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. Los Angeles may justify its higher costs with a thriving job market that many residents find worthwhile.
