ChicagovsLima
Overall
💰-48.8%
Chicago is 48.8%cheaper
Rent
🏠-56.9%
Housing is 56.9% lower
Dining
🍽️-56.3%
Restaurants 56.3% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-43.8%
Food shopping 43.8% less
Comparing the cost of living between Chicago, United States and Lima, Peru reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Chicago is more affordable than Lima by approximately 48.8%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Chicago are higher than in Lima by 132%. A one-bedroom apartment in Chicago's city center costs around $2,200, while the same in Lima is approximately PEN 2,000.
Dining out in Chicago is notably more expensive compared to Lima. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $18 in Chicago versus PEN 15 in Lima.
Public transportation in Chicago is more expensive, with monthly passes at $105 compared to PEN 100 in Lima.
Purchasing power in Chicago is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Lima.
Grocery shopping in Chicago is more expensive by approximately 78%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Chicago can expect to spend approximately $638 per month (excluding rent), while in Lima, the same lifestyle would cost around PEN 867. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,232 monthly in Chicago versus PEN 3,035 in Lima. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Lima to Chicago, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Chicago to Lima requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Chicago
Lima
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago more expensive than Lima?
No, Chicago is approximately 48.8% cheaper than Lima. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Chicago compared to Lima?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 67% of your Lima salary when living in Chicago. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Lima, you'd need about $33,607 in Chicago for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Chicago and Lima?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 132%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show smaller variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Chicago offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Chicago provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Chicago if you prioritize earning potential, or Lima for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Chicago vs Lima?
In Chicago, a single person needs approximately $2,238 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $5,032. In Lima, these figures are PEN 2,067 for singles and PEN 5,235 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Chicago and Lima in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
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Find out how much you need to earn in Lima to maintain your lifestyle from Chicago
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