Los AngelesvsChicago
Overall
💰-8.2%
Los Angeles is 8.2%cheaper
Rent
🏠-20.5%
Housing is 20.5% lower
Dining
🍽️-7.3%
Restaurants 7.3% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-8.2%
Food shopping 8.2% less
Comparing the cost of living between Los Angeles, United States and Chicago, United States reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2026. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Los Angeles is more affordable than Chicago by approximately 8.2%. 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 Los Angeles are higher than in Chicago by 26%. A one-bedroom apartment in Los Angeles's city center costs around $2,886, while the same in Chicago is approximately $2,352.
Dining out in Los Angeles costs about the same compared to Chicago. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $22 in Los Angeles versus $20 in Chicago.
Public transportation in Los Angeles is more affordable, with monthly passes at $100 compared to $105 in Chicago.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Los Angeles can expect to spend approximately $736 per month (excluding rent), while in Chicago, the same lifestyle would cost around $705. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about $2,577 monthly in Los Angeles versus $2,466 in Chicago. 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
Los Angeles
Chicago
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Los Angeles more expensive than Chicago?
No, Los Angeles is approximately 8.2% cheaper than Chicago. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Los Angeles compared to Chicago?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 92% of your Chicago salary when living in Los Angeles. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Chicago, you'd need about $46,196 in Los Angeles for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Los Angeles and Chicago?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 26%, 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 Los Angeles if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Chicago for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Los Angeles vs Chicago?
In Los Angeles, a single person needs approximately $2,992 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $6,677. In Chicago, these figures are $2,417 for singles and $5,416 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Los Angeles and Chicago in 2026 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.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Chicago to maintain your lifestyle from Los Angeles
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