Chicago vs Brussels

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Brussels is roughly 9% more affordable than Chicago (index 38 vs 42, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Brussels
More affordable overall
9% cheaper than Chicago · Cost index: 38 vs 42

Head-to-Head Stats

42Cost Index38
6,250Median Income /mo5,200
52Safety Index62
28Income Tax %32
940Internet (Mbps)95
350Coworking /mo250

Price Breakdown

ChicagoCategoryBrussels
$2,368/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
44% ← cheaper
$1,320/month
$1.28/liter
Meal for One
36% cheaper →
$2/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
$18/meal
$75/month
Monthly Transit Pass
23% ← cheaper
$58/month
$182/month
Utilities (Monthly)
20% cheaper →
$227/month
$150/visit
Doctor Visit
57% ← cheaper
$65/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Chicago

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

Brussels

Internet95 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability78/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chicago cheaper than Brussels?

Brussels is cheaper than Chicago. Brussels has a cost of living index of 38/100 compared to 42/100 for Chicago (New York = 100), making it roughly 9% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Brussels than Chicago?

Brussels is approximately 9% cheaper than Chicago based on cost index scores (38 vs 42, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Chicago could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,720/month in Brussels.

What is the rent comparison between Chicago and Brussels?

In Chicago, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,368/month. In Brussels, the equivalent is around $1,320/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Chicago offers 940 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$350/month. Brussels offers 95 Mbps and coworking at ~$250/month. Brussels has a cost advantage of 9%.

What is the average income in Chicago vs Brussels?

The median net monthly salary in Chicago is approximately $6,250 USD, compared to $5,200 USD in Brussels.

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