Toronto vs Chicago

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Chicago is roughly 4% more affordable than Toronto (index 75 vs 78, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Chicago
More affordable overall
4% cheaper than Toronto · Cost index: 75 vs 78

Head-to-Head Stats

78Cost Index75
3,450Median Income /mo6,250
82Safety Index52
31Income Tax %28
95Internet (Mbps)940
350Coworking /mo350

Price Breakdown

TorontoCategoryChicago
$1,456/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
39% cheaper →
$2,368/month
$2.1/liter
Meal for One
39% ← cheaper
$1.28/liter
$20/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
10% ← cheaper
$18/meal
$170/month
Monthly Transit Pass
56% ← cheaper
$75/month
$180/month
Utilities (Monthly)
1% cheaper →
$182/month
$0/visit
Doctor Visit
$150/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Toronto

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

Chicago

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Toronto cheaper than Chicago?

Chicago is cheaper than Toronto. Chicago has a cost of living index of 75/100 compared to 78/100 for Toronto, making it roughly 4% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Chicago than Toronto?

Chicago is approximately 4% cheaper than Toronto based on cost index scores (75 vs 78, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Toronto could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,885/month in Chicago.

What is the rent comparison between Toronto and Chicago?

In Toronto, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,456/month. In Chicago, the equivalent is around $2,368/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Toronto offers 95 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$350/month. Chicago offers 940 Mbps and coworking at ~$350/month. Chicago has a cost advantage of 4%.

What is the average income in Toronto vs Chicago?

The median net monthly salary in Toronto is approximately $3,450 USD, compared to $6,250 USD in Chicago.

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