Oslo vs Chicago

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Chicago is roughly 14% more affordable than Oslo (index 75 vs 87, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Chicago
More affordable overall
14% cheaper than Oslo · Cost index: 75 vs 87

Head-to-Head Stats

87Cost Index75
4,838Median Income /mo6,250
88Safety Index52
28Income Tax %28
95Internet (Mbps)940
350Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

OsloCategoryChicago
$1,520/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
36% cheaper →
$2,368/month
$2/liter
Meal for One
36% ← cheaper
$1.28/liter
$20/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
10% ← cheaper
$18/meal
$77/month
Monthly Transit Pass
3% ← cheaper
$75/month
$200/month
Utilities (Monthly)
9% ← cheaper
$182/month
$120/visit
Doctor Visit
20% cheaper →
$150/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Oslo

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

Chicago

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Oslo cheaper than Chicago?

Chicago is cheaper than Oslo. Chicago has a cost of living index of 75/100 compared to 87/100 for Oslo, making it roughly 14% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Chicago than Oslo?

Chicago is approximately 14% cheaper than Oslo based on cost index scores (75 vs 87, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Oslo could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,586/month in Chicago.

What is the rent comparison between Oslo and Chicago?

In Oslo, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,520/month. In Chicago, the equivalent is around $2,368/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Oslo offers 95 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$350/month. Chicago offers 940 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Chicago has a cost advantage of 14%.

What is the average income in Oslo vs Chicago?

The median net monthly salary in Oslo is approximately $4,838 USD, compared to $6,250 USD in Chicago.

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