Chicago vs Dublin

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Dublin is roughly 23% more affordable than Chicago (index 46 vs 60, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Dublin
More affordable overall
23% cheaper than Chicago · Cost index: 46 vs 60

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

60Cost Index46
4,800Median Income /mo3,950
60Safety Index78
4.95Income Tax %20
150Internet (Mbps)85
250Coworking /mo200

Price Breakdown

ChicagoCategoryDublin
$2,471/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
4% ← cheaper
$2,380/month
$1.35/liter
Meal for One
4% ← cheaper
$1.3/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
$18/meal
$75/month
Monthly Transit Pass
31% cheaper →
$108/month
$166/month
Utilities (Monthly)
17% cheaper →
$200/month
$120/visit
Doctor Visit
25% ← cheaper
$90/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Chicago

Internet150 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitygrowing
Walkability77/100

Dublin

Internet85 Mbps
Coworking$200/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitygrowing
Walkability78/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chicago cheaper than Dublin?

Dublin is cheaper than Chicago. Dublin has a cost of living index of 46/100 compared to 60/100 for Chicago (New York = 100), making it roughly 23% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Dublin than Chicago?

Dublin is approximately 23% cheaper than Chicago based on cost index scores (46 vs 60, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Chicago could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,299/month in Dublin.

What is the rent comparison between Chicago and Dublin?

In Chicago, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,471/month. In Dublin, the equivalent is around $2,380/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Chicago offers 150 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$250/month. Dublin offers 85 Mbps and coworking at ~$200/month. Dublin has a cost advantage of 23%.

What is the average income in Chicago vs Dublin?

The median net monthly salary in Chicago is approximately $4,800 USD, compared to $3,950 USD in Dublin.

Compare Chicago with…

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