Data last updated: August 2026

Chicago, ILDenver, CO

You would need around 11.3% less money in Denver, CO to maintain the same standard of living you have in Chicago, IL.

Overall Cost of Living

11.3%

Denver, CO is cheaper than Chicago, IL

1-Bed Rent (City Center)

City A2,406 USD
City B2,060 USD
Difference-14.4%

Groceries (Monthly)

City A293 USD
City B310 USD
Difference+5.8%

Average Net Salary

City A5,136 USD
City B4,487 USD
Difference-12.6%

Editorial Insight: Planning a move from Chicago, IL to Denver, CO? Based on our verified data model, you are looking at a fantastic geo-arbitrage opportunity. Overall, the cost of living in Denver, CO is 11.3% cheaper. Housing is typically the biggest financial win—renting a 1-bedroom apartment in Denver, CO's center costs around 2,060 USD, which is a staggering 14.4% 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.

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Reviewed by the Remote Wealth Editorial Team

Our cost of living data for Chicago, IL and Denver, CO 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 Denver, CO to maintain your current lifestyle in Chicago, IL.

USD

You need in Denver, CO

4,553 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 Denver, CO and investing the 11% cost of living difference, you could reach FIRE 1.7 years earlier.

Budget Simulator

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

Housing2060 USD
Groceries310 USD
Utilities & Internet270 USD

Investment Planner

You save 346 USD every month on rent alone by moving to Denver, CO.

Investing this rent difference in an S&P 500 index fund could grow to ~58,128 USD in 10 years.