Chicago vs Milan

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Milan is roughly 3% more affordable than Chicago (index 73 vs 75, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Milan
More affordable overall
3% cheaper than Chicago · Cost index: 73 vs 75

Head-to-Head Stats

75Cost Index73
6,250Median Income /mo1,750
52Safety Index68
28Income Tax %33
940Internet (Mbps)75
350Coworking /mo250

Price Breakdown

ChicagoCategoryMilan
$2,368/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
39% ← cheaper
$1,450/month
$1.28/liter
Meal for One
5% cheaper →
$1.35/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
$18/meal
$75/month
Monthly Transit Pass
43% ← cheaper
$43/month
$182/month
Utilities (Monthly)
20% ← cheaper
$145/month
$150/visit
Doctor Visit
53% ← cheaper
$70/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Chicago

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

Milan

Internet75 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability78/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chicago cheaper than Milan?

Milan is cheaper than Chicago. Milan has a cost of living index of 73/100 compared to 75/100 for Chicago, making it roughly 3% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Milan than Chicago?

Milan is approximately 3% cheaper than Chicago based on cost index scores (73 vs 75, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Chicago could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,920/month in Milan.

What is the rent comparison between Chicago and Milan?

In Chicago, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,368/month. In Milan, the equivalent is around $1,450/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Chicago offers 940 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$350/month. Milan offers 75 Mbps and coworking at ~$250/month. Milan has a cost advantage of 3%.

What is the average income in Chicago vs Milan?

The median net monthly salary in Chicago is approximately $6,250 USD, compared to $1,750 USD in Milan.

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