Chicago vs London

Cost of living comparison for 2026. London is roughly 19% more affordable than Chicago (index 49 vs 60, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

London
More affordable overall
19% cheaper than Chicago · Cost index: 49 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 Index49
4,800Median Income /mo4,030
60Safety Index68
4.95Income Tax %22
150Internet (Mbps)169
250Coworking /mo280

Price Breakdown

ChicagoCategoryLondon
$2,471/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
17% cheaper →
$2,980/month
$1.35/liter
Meal for One
16% cheaper →
$1.61/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
33% cheaper →
$27/meal
$75/month
Monthly Transit Pass
65% cheaper →
$213/month
$166/month
Utilities (Monthly)
57% cheaper →
$386/month
$120/visit
Doctor Visit
11% cheaper →
$135/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Chicago

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

London

Internet169 Mbps
Coworking$280/mo
Café WiFifair
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability74/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chicago cheaper than London?

London is cheaper than Chicago. London has a cost of living index of 49/100 compared to 60/100 for Chicago (New York = 100), making it roughly 19% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is London than Chicago?

London is approximately 19% cheaper than Chicago based on cost index scores (49 vs 60, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Chicago could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,439/month in London.

What is the rent comparison between Chicago and London?

In Chicago, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,471/month. In London, the equivalent is around $2,980/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Chicago offers 150 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$250/month. London offers 169 Mbps and coworking at ~$280/month. London has a cost advantage of 19%.

What is the average income in Chicago vs London?

The median net monthly salary in Chicago is approximately $4,800 USD, compared to $4,030 USD in London.

Compare Chicago with…

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