New York, NYChicago, IL
You would need around 39.8% less money in Chicago, IL to maintain the same standard of living you have in New York, NY.
Overall Cost of Living
Chicago, IL is cheaper than New York, NY
1-Bed Rent (City Center)
Groceries (Monthly)
Average Net Salary
Editorial Insight: Planning a move from New York, NY to Chicago, IL? Based on our verified data model, you are looking at a fantastic geo-arbitrage opportunity. Overall, the cost of living in Chicago, IL is 39.8% cheaper. Housing is typically the biggest financial win—renting a 1-bedroom apartment in Chicago, IL's center costs around 2,406 USD, which is a staggering 43.8% less than in New York, NY. 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 New York, NY 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.
Read more about our team →Salary Comparator
Find out exactly how much you need to earn in Chicago, IL to maintain your current lifestyle in New York, NY.
You need in Chicago, IL
3,264 USD
Geo-Arbitrage FIRE
Discover how moving to a cheaper city accelerates your Financial Independence and Retire Early (FIRE) timeline.
By moving from New York, NY to Chicago, IL and investing the 40% cost of living difference, you could reach FIRE 6.0 years earlier.
Budget Simulator
Instantly adapt your New York, NY budget to local Chicago, IL prices. We automatically adjust housing, groceries, and leisure categories.
Investment Planner
You save 1878 USD every month on rent alone by moving to Chicago, IL.
Investing this rent difference in an S&P 500 index fund could grow to ~315,504 USD in 10 years.