Amsterdam vs Chicago

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Chicago is roughly 4% more affordable than Amsterdam (index 75 vs 78, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Chicago
More affordable overall
4% cheaper than Amsterdam · Cost index: 75 vs 78

Head-to-Head Stats

78Cost Index75
3,900Median Income /mo6,250
72Safety Index52
37Income Tax %28
95Internet (Mbps)940
250Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

AmsterdamCategoryChicago
$1,850/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
22% cheaper →
$2,368/month
$1.1/liter
Meal for One
14% cheaper →
$1.28/liter
$16/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
11% cheaper →
$18/meal
$138/month
Monthly Transit Pass
46% ← cheaper
$75/month
$190/month
Utilities (Monthly)
4% ← cheaper
$182/month
$120/visit
Doctor Visit
20% cheaper →
$150/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Amsterdam

Internet95 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability92/100

Chicago

Internet940 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability78/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Amsterdam cheaper than Chicago?

Chicago is cheaper than Amsterdam. Chicago has a cost of living index of 75/100 compared to 78/100 for Amsterdam, making it roughly 4% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Chicago than Amsterdam?

Chicago is approximately 4% cheaper than Amsterdam based on cost index scores (75 vs 78, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Amsterdam could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,885/month in Chicago.

What is the rent comparison between Amsterdam and Chicago?

In Amsterdam, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,850/month. In Chicago, the equivalent is around $2,368/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Amsterdam or Chicago?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Amsterdam offers 95 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$250/month. Chicago offers 940 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Chicago has a cost advantage of 4%.

What is the average income in Amsterdam vs Chicago?

The median net monthly salary in Amsterdam is approximately $3,900 USD, compared to $6,250 USD in Chicago.

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