Chicago vs Seattle: cost of living compared
Seattle is 31% more expensive than Chicago overall. Seattle (WA) has no state income tax; IL tops out around 4.95%.
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 Seattle reveals a substantial difference in overall cost of living, with Seattle being considerably more expensive. This disparity is primarily driven by housing expenses, which are dramatically higher in the Pacific Northwest. While other categories like food, healthcare, and utilities also show Seattle as more costly, the housing market creates the most significant gap in household budgets between these two major cities.
Housing
Housing costs present the most striking contrast. Both buying a home and renting a one-bedroom apartment are substantially more expensive in Seattle. Chicago's housing market is much more affordable, with median home prices and rental rates significantly lower. While property taxes and insurance costs vary by location, the initial outlay for housing, whether purchasing or renting, demands a much larger portion of income in Seattle.
Taxes and everyday costs
Beyond housing, daily expenses also differ. Seattle residents face higher costs for groceries, healthcare, and utilities. Transportation costs are roughly comparable between the two metros, though Seattle is slightly higher. A key financial distinction is state income tax: Illinois has a statewide income tax, while Washington does not, which can impact take-home pay and overall budgeting for residents in Chicago.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Lifestyle differences extend beyond cost. Chicago experiences distinct seasons, including cold winters and warm summers, and is known for its extensive public transit system. Seattle has a milder, wetter climate with less seasonal temperature variation, characterized by frequent rain. Both are dense urban environments, but Chicago's flat topography contrasts with Seattle's hilly landscape. Each city offers a vibrant urban experience with unique cultural and recreational opportunities.
Bottom line
Moving between Chicago and Seattle means a significant adjustment to your household budget. Seattle demands a much higher income to maintain a similar standard of living, predominantly due to its vastly more expensive housing market. While the absence of a state income tax in Washington might offer some relief, it is unlikely to offset the substantial increase in housing and other everyday expenses compared to Chicago. Careful financial planning is essential for anyone considering such a move.
| Measure | Chicago, IL | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 118 | 155 |
| Housing index | 97 | 192 |
| Transportation index | 121 | 123 |
| Food index | 105 | 112 |
| Healthcare index | 108 | 112 |
| Utilities index | 102 | 105 |
| Misc index | 108 | 118 |
| Median home price | $318,000 | $748,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,650/mo | $2,350/mo |
| Average commute | 34 min | 33 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Seattle home with the True Cost Calculator.