United States
Cost of Living in Chicago
Monthly expenses, rent & budget analysis — Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates
COL+Rent: 57.1Rent: 44Groceries: 72.9Restaurant: 73.7
Monthly Budget Estimates
Minimal
$2,189/mo
Outside-center room, basic groceries, public transit
Typical
$2,988/mo
City-center 1BR, regular groceries & dining out
Comfortable
$3,701/mo
Premium apartment, frequent dining, entertainment
Monthly Costs Breakdown
| Category | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR City Center) | $1,998 |
| Rent (1BR Outside Center) | $1,566 |
| Groceries (monthly) | $418 |
| Restaurant Meal | $22 |
| Transit Pass (monthly) | $73 |
| Utilities (monthly) | $169 |
Source: Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · Reviewed April 2026
Can You Afford Chicago?
Compare Chicago with other cities at specific budget levels:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Chicago?
A minimal monthly budget in Chicago is approximately $2,189, a typical budget is $2,988, and a comfortable lifestyle costs around $3,701 per month.
How much is rent in Chicago?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Chicago city center costs approximately $1,998/month. Outside the center, expect around $1,566/month.
Is Chicago expensive compared to New York?
Chicago's COL+Rent Index is 57.1 compared to New York's 100, meaning Chicago is about 43% cheaper than NYC overall.
What is the average grocery cost in Chicago?
Monthly groceries in Chicago cost approximately $418. The city's Groceries Index is 72.9 (NYC = 100).