ChicagovsLos Angeles
Overall
💰+7.3%
Chicago is 7.3%more expensive
Rent
🏠+23.1%
Housing is 23.1% higher
Dining
🍽️+6.3%
Restaurants 6.3% pricier
Groceries
🛒+10.0%
Food shopping 10.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Chicago, United States and Los Angeles, United States reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Chicago is more expensive than Los Angeles by approximately 7.3%. 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 lower than in Los Angeles by 19%. A one-bedroom apartment in Chicago's city center costs around $2,200, while the same in Los Angeles is approximately $2,800.
Dining out in Chicago costs about the same compared to Los Angeles. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $18 in Chicago versus $18 in Los Angeles.
Public transportation in Chicago is more expensive, with monthly passes at $105 compared to $100 in Los Angeles.
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 Los Angeles, the same lifestyle would cost around $659. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,232 monthly in Chicago versus $2,305 in Los Angeles. 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 Chicago to Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles to Chicago 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
Los Angeles
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicago more expensive than Los Angeles?
Yes, Chicago is approximately 7.3% more expensive than Los Angeles overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Chicago compared to Los Angeles?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Los Angeles salary when living in Chicago. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Los Angeles, you'd need about $53,659 in Chicago for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Chicago and Los Angeles?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 19%, 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, Los Angeles provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Chicago if you prioritize earning potential, or Los Angeles for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Chicago vs Los Angeles?
In Chicago, a single person needs approximately $2,238 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $5,032. In Los Angeles, these figures are $2,859 for singles and $6,305 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Chicago and Los Angeles in 2025 shows moderate 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 Los Angeles to maintain your lifestyle from Chicago
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