Chicago vs Los Angeles: cost of living compared

Los Angeles is 48% more expensive than Chicago overall. State income tax tops out around 4.95% in IL vs 9.3% in CA.

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 Los Angeles reveals a substantial difference in overall cost of living, with Los Angeles being considerably more expensive. This disparity is primarily driven by housing costs, which are significantly higher in Los Angeles for both renters and homeowners. While other categories like transportation, food, and utilities also show Los Angeles as more costly, the housing market creates the largest gap in expenses between these two major cities.

Housing

Housing in Los Angeles is dramatically more expensive than in Chicago, whether you're looking to buy or rent. Median home prices in Los Angeles are much higher, and a one-bedroom rental commands a considerably greater monthly sum. Chicago offers more affordable housing options, including a mix of older brick structures and modern high-rises. Beyond the mortgage or rent, property taxes and insurance costs can also vary, impacting the true cost of homeownership in each metro.

Taxes and everyday costs

Daily expenses for transportation, food, healthcare, and utilities are all higher in Los Angeles. Additionally, California's state income tax rate is noticeably higher than Illinois's, impacting take-home pay. While commute times are roughly similar, the cost of getting around, fueling a vehicle, or using public transit is greater in Los Angeles. These combined factors mean that routine spending on essentials will be noticeably more expensive in Los Angeles.

Lifestyle trade-offs

Beyond costs, a move between these cities means a significant lifestyle shift. Los Angeles offers a Mediterranean climate with abundant sunshine, while Chicago experiences four distinct seasons, including cold winters. Los Angeles is known for its sprawling nature and car-centric culture, though public transit exists. Chicago, in contrast, is a denser, more walkable city with extensive public transportation. Both offer vibrant urban experiences, but with different paces and environmental characteristics.

Bottom line

Moving from Chicago to Los Angeles will almost certainly mean a substantial increase in your household budget, predominantly due to the much higher housing costs. While all spending categories are more expensive in Los Angeles, the difference in home prices and rents is the most impactful. Understanding these financial distinctions, alongside the contrasting climates and urban layouts, is crucial for anyone considering a relocation between these two prominent American cities.

Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Los Angeles home with the True Cost Calculator.

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