Data last updated: August 2026

Chicago, ILPhoenix, AZ

You would need around 20.7% less money in Phoenix, AZ to maintain the same standard of living you have in Chicago, IL.

Overall Cost of Living

20.7%

Phoenix, AZ is cheaper than Chicago, IL

1-Bed Rent (City Center)

City A2,406 USD
City B1,790 USD
Difference-25.6%

Groceries (Monthly)

City A293 USD
City B309 USD
Difference+5.5%

Average Net Salary

City A5,136 USD
City B4,195 USD
Difference-18.3%

Editorial Insight: Planning a move from Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ? Based on our verified data model, you are looking at a fantastic geo-arbitrage opportunity. Overall, the cost of living in Phoenix, AZ is 20.7% cheaper. Housing is typically the biggest financial win—renting a 1-bedroom apartment in Phoenix, AZ's center costs around 1,790 USD, which is a staggering 25.6% 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 Phoenix, AZ 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 Phoenix, AZ to maintain your current lifestyle in Chicago, IL.

USD

You need in Phoenix, AZ

4,073 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 Phoenix, AZ and investing the 21% cost of living difference, you could reach FIRE 3.1 years earlier.

Budget Simulator

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

Housing1790 USD
Groceries309 USD
Utilities & Internet281 USD

Investment Planner

You save 616 USD every month on rent alone by moving to Phoenix, AZ.

Investing this rent difference in an S&P 500 index fund could grow to ~103,488 USD in 10 years.