Reykjavik vs Chicago

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Chicago is roughly 16% more affordable than Reykjavik (index 75 vs 89, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Chicago
More affordable overall
16% cheaper than Reykjavik · Cost index: 75 vs 89

Head-to-Head Stats

89Cost Index75
4,652Median Income /mo6,250
76Safety Index52
31.49Income Tax %28
95Internet (Mbps)940
250Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

ReykjavikCategoryChicago
$2,222/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
6% cheaper →
$2,368/month
$1.77/liter
Meal for One
28% ← cheaper
$1.28/liter
$28.14/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
36% ← cheaper
$18/meal
$78.9/month
Monthly Transit Pass
5% ← cheaper
$75/month
$182.55/month
Utilities (Monthly)
$182/month
$86.59/visit
Doctor Visit
42% cheaper →
$150/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Reykjavik

Internet95 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishhigh
Communitygrowing
Walkability78/100

Chicago

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Reykjavik cheaper than Chicago?

Chicago is cheaper than Reykjavik. Chicago has a cost of living index of 75/100 compared to 89/100 for Reykjavik, making it roughly 16% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Chicago than Reykjavik?

Chicago is approximately 16% cheaper than Reykjavik based on cost index scores (75 vs 89, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Reykjavik could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,528/month in Chicago.

What is the rent comparison between Reykjavik and Chicago?

In Reykjavik, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2,222/month. In Chicago, the equivalent is around $2,368/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Reykjavik offers 95 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$250/month. Chicago offers 940 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Chicago has a cost advantage of 16%.

What is the average income in Reykjavik vs Chicago?

The median net monthly salary in Reykjavik is approximately $4,652 USD, compared to $6,250 USD in Chicago.

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