Chicago, ILBuffalo, NY
You would need around 25.3% less money in Buffalo, NY to maintain the same standard of living you have in Chicago, IL.
Overall Cost of Living
Buffalo, NY is cheaper than Chicago, IL
1-Bed Rent (City Center)
Groceries (Monthly)
Average Net Salary
Editorial Insight: Planning a move from Chicago, IL to Buffalo, NY? Based on our verified data model, you are looking at a fantastic geo-arbitrage opportunity. Overall, the cost of living in Buffalo, NY is 25.3% cheaper. Housing is typically the biggest financial win—renting a 1-bedroom apartment in Buffalo, NY's center costs around 1,685 USD, which is a staggering 30.0% less than in Chicago, IL. If you are retaining a remote income, the Remote Wealth team ranks this as a highly strategic move for wealth accumulation.
Reviewed by the Remote Wealth Editorial Team
Our cost of living data for Chicago, IL and Buffalo, NY 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.
Read more about our team →Salary Comparator
Find out exactly how much you need to earn in Buffalo, NY to maintain your current lifestyle in Chicago, IL.
You need in Buffalo, NY
3,839 USD
Geo-Arbitrage FIRE
Discover how moving to a cheaper city accelerates your Financial Independence and Retire Early (FIRE) timeline.
By moving from Chicago, IL to Buffalo, NY and investing the 25% cost of living difference, you could reach FIRE 3.8 years earlier.
Budget Simulator
Instantly adapt your Chicago, IL budget to local Buffalo, NY prices. We automatically adjust housing, groceries, and leisure categories.
Investment Planner
You save 721 USD every month on rent alone by moving to Buffalo, NY.
Investing this rent difference in an S&P 500 index fund could grow to ~121,128 USD in 10 years.