London vs Chicago

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Chicago is roughly 12% more affordable than London (index 75 vs 85, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Chicago
More affordable overall
12% cheaper than London · Cost index: 75 vs 85

Head-to-Head Stats

85Cost Index75
3,850Median Income /mo6,250
70Safety Index52
27Income Tax %28
72Internet (Mbps)940
350Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

LondonCategoryChicago
$2,800/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
15% ← cheaper
$2,368/month
$2.25/liter
Meal for One
43% ← cheaper
$1.28/liter
$19/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
5% ← cheaper
$18/meal
$200/month
Monthly Transit Pass
63% ← cheaper
$75/month
$210/month
Utilities (Monthly)
13% ← cheaper
$182/month
$100/visit
Doctor Visit
33% cheaper →
$150/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

London

Internet72 Mbps
Coworking$350/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability82/100

Chicago

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is London cheaper than Chicago?

Chicago is cheaper than London. Chicago has a cost of living index of 75/100 compared to 85/100 for London, making it roughly 12% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Chicago than London?

Chicago is approximately 12% cheaper than London based on cost index scores (75 vs 85, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in London could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,647/month in Chicago.

What is the rent comparison between London and Chicago?

In London, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,800/month. In Chicago, the equivalent is around $2,368/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. London offers 72 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$350/month. Chicago offers 940 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Chicago has a cost advantage of 12%.

What is the average income in London vs Chicago?

The median net monthly salary in London is approximately $3,850 USD, compared to $6,250 USD in Chicago.

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