Cost of Living: Chicago vs Denver (2026)
Compare cost of living: Chicago vs Denver. Rent, groceries, transport, and salary equivalents. Denver is 8% cheaper.
Chicago is approximately 8% more expensive than Denver overall. The cost difference is modest but adds up across housing, food, and transportation. This comparison breaks down every major expense category so you can decide where your money goes further.
Side-by-Side Cost Comparison
Compare cost of living Chicago vs Denver including housing, groceries, transportation, and taxes. This comparison calculator shows whether Chicago or Denver is more affordable and how far your salary stretches in each city.
| Category | Chicago | Denver | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 131 | 121 | +8% |
| Median 1BR Rent | $1,850/mo | $1,800/mo | +$50 |
| Median Salary | $62,000 | $62,000 | $0 |
| Groceries (weekly) | $95 | $98 | $-3 |
| Transportation (monthly) | $105 | $100 | +$5 |
Index base: 100 = national average. Use our Cost of Living Calculator for a personalized comparison.
Salary Needed to Maintain Your Lifestyle
If you earn $75,000 in Chicago, you would need approximately $69,275 in Denver to maintain the same standard of living. Conversely, $75,000 in Denver requires $81,198 in Chicago.
| Salary in Chicago | Equivalent in Denver |
|---|---|
| $50,000 | $46,183 |
| $75,000 | $69,275 |
| $100,000 | $92,366 |
| $125,000 | $115,458 |
| $150,000 | $138,550 |
Compare take-home pay: Take-Home Pay Calculator
Housing Deep Dive
Housing is the biggest cost difference. Median 1-bedroom rent is $1,850 in Chicago vs $1,800 in Denver — $50/month or $600/year. If buying, use our Home Affordability Calculator to compare purchasing power in each city.