Chicago vs Vancouver

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

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

Head-to-Head Stats

75Cost Index73
6,250Median Income /mo6,018
52Safety Index72
28Income Tax %23
940Internet (Mbps)95
350Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

ChicagoCategoryVancouver
$2,368/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
25% ← cheaper
$1,768/month
$1.28/liter
Meal for One
5% cheaper →
$1.35/liter
$18/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
8% ← cheaper
$16.5/meal
$75/month
Monthly Transit Pass
43% cheaper →
$132/month
$182/month
Utilities (Monthly)
34% ← cheaper
$120/month
$150/visit
Doctor Visit
100% ← cheaper
$0/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Chicago

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

Vancouver

Internet95 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability78/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chicago cheaper than Vancouver?

Vancouver is cheaper than Chicago. Vancouver 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 Vancouver than Chicago?

Vancouver 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 Vancouver.

What is the rent comparison between Chicago and Vancouver?

In Chicago, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,368/month. In Vancouver, the equivalent is around $1,768/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Chicago offers 940 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$350/month. Vancouver offers 95 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Vancouver has a cost advantage of 3%.

What is the average income in Chicago vs Vancouver?

The median net monthly salary in Chicago is approximately $6,250 USD, compared to $6,018 USD in Vancouver.

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