Chicago vs Hartford: cost of living compared
Hartford is about the same as Chicago overall. State income tax tops out around 4.95% in IL vs 5.5% in CT.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Comparing Chicago and Hartford reveals that the overall cost of living is roughly similar between the two metros. However, this similarity masks significant differences in key spending categories. While housing costs are noticeably lower in Hartford, Chicago offers more affordable utilities, which helps balance the overall picture. Transportation costs also differ, with Hartford being more economical in this area. Understanding these variations is crucial for anyone considering a move.
Housing
Housing in Hartford is generally more affordable, whether you are looking to buy or rent. Median home prices are lower, and a typical one-bedroom apartment commands a significantly smaller monthly rent compared to Chicago. Both metros feature a mix of housing types, from urban apartments to single-family homes, but the cost of entry is consistently less in Hartford. Potential homeowners should also consider local property taxes and insurance, which can vary.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses show a mixed picture. Hartford's state income tax is slightly higher than Chicago's. Transportation costs are noticeably lower in Hartford, reflecting its smaller scale. While food and healthcare expenses are somewhat cheaper in Chicago, utilities stand out as a much more significant expense in Hartford. This means that while some daily purchases might be less in Chicago, the cost of keeping your home powered and comfortable is considerably higher in Hartford.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move between these metros means adapting to different lifestyles. Chicago, a major global city, offers a dense urban environment with extensive public transit and a fast pace. Its climate features cold winters and warm summers. Hartford, a smaller capital city, provides a more suburban feel with less traffic and a generally shorter commute. It also experiences distinct four seasons, including cold winters, but with a less intense urban density.
Bottom line
For households weighing a move, the overall cost of living is quite comparable between Chicago and Hartford, despite differences in individual categories. The most substantial savings in Hartford come from housing and transportation, while Chicago offers more affordable utilities. Income tax is a bit higher in Hartford. Ultimately, the decision may hinge on lifestyle preferences, balancing the significant savings in housing and commute time in Hartford against Chicago's lower utility costs and larger urban amenities.
| Measure | Chicago, IL | Hartford, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 118 | 118 |
| Housing index | 97 | 86 |
| Transportation index | 121 | 100 |
| Food index | 105 | 108 |
| Healthcare index | 108 | 112 |
| Utilities index | 102 | 148 |
| Misc index | 108 | 108 |
| Median home price | $318,000 | $298,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,650/mo | $1,350/mo |
| Average commute | 34 min | 27 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Hartford home with the True Cost Calculator.