Data last updated: August 2026

Adelaide, AustraliaChicago, IL

You would need around 33.0% more money in Chicago, IL to maintain the same standard of living you have in Adelaide, Australia.

Overall Cost of Living

33.0%

Chicago, IL is more expensive than Adelaide, Australia

1-Bed Rent (City Center)

City A1,755 USD
City B2,406 USD
Difference+37.1%

Groceries (Monthly)

City A283 USD
City B293 USD
Difference+3.5%

Average Net Salary

City A3,860 USD
City B5,136 USD
Difference+33.1%

Editorial Insight: Moving from Adelaide, Australia to Chicago, IL requires careful financial planning. Our cost of living index indicates that you should expect expenses to be roughly 33.0% higher. Your biggest financial adjustment will be housing, as a central 1-bedroom apartment runs about 2,406 USD. While everyday expenses demand a significantly larger budget, global hubs like Chicago, IL often offer unparalleled networking and career premiums that can offset the initial lifestyle inflation.

Pro Tip:Make sure your new salary fully covers the cost gap! We recommend exploring premium remote roles on FlexJobs to boost your income before relocating.Check out FlexJobs

Reviewed by the Remote Wealth Editorial Team

Our cost of living data for Adelaide, Australia and Chicago, IL is compiled using our rigorous verification methodology. We combine millions of data points from reliable sources to ensure you get the most accurate financial comparison for your relocation.

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Salary Comparator

Find out exactly how much you need to earn in Chicago, IL to maintain your current lifestyle in Adelaide, Australia.

USD

You need in Chicago, IL

5,135 USD

Geo-Arbitrage FIRE

Discover how moving to a cheaper city accelerates your Financial Independence and Retire Early (FIRE) timeline.

Moving to Chicago, IL increases expenses by 33%, which will delay your FIRE timeline unless your income increases significantly.

Budget Simulator

Instantly adapt your Adelaide, Australia budget to local Chicago, IL prices. We automatically adjust housing, groceries, and leisure categories.

Housing2406 USD
Groceries293 USD
Utilities & Internet263 USD

Investment Planner

Rent is higher in Chicago, IL. You'll need to optimize other budget categories to maintain your current investment contributions.