Chicago vs Denver

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Chicago is roughly 0% more affordable than Denver (index 75 vs 75, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Chicago
More affordable overall
0% cheaper than Denver · Cost index: 75 vs 75

Head-to-Head Stats

75Cost Index75
6,250Median Income /mo5,672
52Safety Index35
28Income Tax %4.4
940Internet (Mbps)940
350Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

ChicagoCategoryDenver
$2,368/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
30% ← cheaper
$1,650/month
$1.28/liter
Meal for One
6% ← cheaper
$1.2/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
11% ← cheaper
$16/meal
$75/month
Monthly Transit Pass
24% cheaper →
$99/month
$182/month
Utilities (Monthly)
23% ← cheaper
$140/month
$150/visit
Doctor Visit
40% ← cheaper
$90/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Chicago

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

Denver

Internet940 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability72/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chicago cheaper than Denver?

Chicago is cheaper than Denver. Chicago has a cost of living index of 75/100 compared to 75/100 for Denver, making it roughly 0% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Chicago than Denver?

Chicago is approximately 0% cheaper than Denver based on cost index scores (75 vs 75, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Denver could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $3,000/month in Chicago.

What is the rent comparison between Chicago and Denver?

In Chicago, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,368/month. In Denver, the equivalent is around $1,650/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Chicago offers 940 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$350/month. Denver offers 940 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Chicago has a cost advantage of 0%.

What is the average income in Chicago vs Denver?

The median net monthly salary in Chicago is approximately $6,250 USD, compared to $5,672 USD in Denver.

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