Chicago vs Portland: cost of living compared

Portland is 8% more expensive than Chicago overall. State income tax tops out around 4.95% in IL vs 8.75% in OR.

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

Moving from Chicago to Portland generally means a higher overall cost of living. Portland's expenses are noticeably greater than Chicago's, which itself is above the national average. The most significant factor contributing to this difference is housing, which is substantially more expensive in Portland. Other categories, like food and healthcare, also show Portland as having slightly higher costs, while utilities are somewhat cheaper there.

Housing

Both buying and renting are considerably more expensive in Portland. Median home prices show a substantial gap, with Portland homes costing much more. Rent for a typical one-bedroom apartment also reflects this, being higher in Portland. Chicago offers a mix of historic brick buildings and high-rise living, while Portland features more detached homes and a generally newer housing stock, often with a focus on green spaces. Property taxes and insurance costs can vary significantly between these distinct markets.

Taxes and everyday costs

Daily expenses for transportation, food, and healthcare are generally higher in Portland. However, utilities are somewhat cheaper there. A major difference impacting disposable income is state income tax; Oregon has a considerably higher top marginal rate compared to Illinois. Commute times are shorter in Portland on average, which could influence transportation costs and daily convenience, despite public transit options in both cities.

Lifestyle trade-offs

Chicago experiences distinct four-season weather, including cold, snowy winters, and is known for its dense urban core and extensive public transit network. Portland has a milder, wetter climate, with less extreme temperatures and a strong focus on outdoor activities and green spaces. Both cities offer robust public transportation, but Chicago's system is more expansive, while Portland's is well-regarded for its accessibility. Portland generally feels less dense than Chicago's bustling downtown.

Bottom line

For households considering a move, the budget impact is clear: Portland generally requires a larger financial commitment, primarily due to significantly higher housing costs and a steeper state income tax. While some daily expenses like utilities might be less, and commute times shorter, these savings are unlikely to offset the substantial difference in housing and income tax. A move to Portland means preparing for a noticeably higher overall financial outlay compared to Chicago.

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

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