City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
London vs Chicago — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
London
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 72.9 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in London.
Chicago
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 57.1 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in Chicago.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | London | Chicago | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $906 | $899 | +$7 |
| Groceries | $171 | $211 | $40 |
| Dining Out | $136 | $133 | +$3 |
| Transportation | $46 | $37 | +$9 |
| Utilities | $105 | $85 | +$20 |
| Other / Misc | $136 | $135 | +$1 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
London
$1,500
per month
Chicago equivalent
$1,175
per month
Only $1,175/mo in Chicago matches $1,500/mo in London — better value.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in London on $1,500/month?
Living in London on $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Budget allocates ~$906 to rent, $171 to groceries, $136 to dining.
Can I live in Chicago on $1,500/month?
In Chicago, $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Allocations: $899 rent, $211 groceries, $133 dining.
Is London or Chicago cheaper?
Chicago is generally cheaper. COL+Rent: London 72.9 vs Chicago 57.1 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in London worth in Chicago?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in London equals ~$1,175/mo in Chicago using COL adjustment.