Data last updated: August 2026

Chicago, ILPlano, TX

You would need around 32.8% less money in Plano, TX to maintain the same standard of living you have in Chicago, IL.

Overall Cost of Living

32.8%

Plano, TX is cheaper than Chicago, IL

1-Bed Rent (City Center)

City A2,406 USD
City B1,452 USD
Difference-39.7%

Groceries (Monthly)

City A293 USD
City B296 USD
Difference+1.0%

Average Net Salary

City A5,136 USD
City B5,657 USD
Difference+10.1%

Editorial Insight: Planning a move from Chicago, IL to Plano, TX? Based on our verified data model, you are looking at a fantastic geo-arbitrage opportunity. Overall, the cost of living in Plano, TX is 32.8% cheaper. Housing is typically the biggest financial win—renting a 1-bedroom apartment in Plano, TX's center costs around 1,452 USD, which is a staggering 39.7% 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 Plano, TX 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 Plano, TX to maintain your current lifestyle in Chicago, IL.

USD

You need in Plano, TX

3,451 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 Plano, TX and investing the 33% cost of living difference, you could reach FIRE 4.9 years earlier.

Budget Simulator

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

Housing1452 USD
Groceries296 USD
Utilities & Internet255 USD

Investment Planner

You save 954 USD every month on rent alone by moving to Plano, TX.

Investing this rent difference in an S&P 500 index fund could grow to ~160,272 USD in 10 years.