The Verdict
Living in Chicago is 32% cheaper than London.
If you move from Chicago to London, you will pay more for housing and more for daily groceries. To maintain the same standard of life as a $75,000 salary in Chicago, you would need to earn about $110,294 in London.
of 6 categories
categories
of 6 categories
Category Breakdown
Compare costs across 6 key categories
City Profiles
What makes each city unique
Why people love Chicago:
Why people love London:
Real Monthly Costs
Estimated costs based on NYC baseline prices
| Expense | Chicago | London | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-bed apartment (city center) | $1,925 | $3,500 | +$1,575 |
| Monthly groceries | $383 | $450 | +$67 |
| Dining out (10 meals) | $280 | $350 | +$70 |
| Public transport pass | $117 | $130 | +$13 |
| Utilities (electric, heating, water) | $190 | $200 | +$10 |
| Total Monthly | $2,895 | $4,630 | +$1,735 |
* Estimates based on NYC = 100 index. Actual costs vary by lifestyle and location within city.
Who Should Choose Which City?
Recommendations based on your priorities
- Want lower overall living costs (32% cheaper)
- Are looking for more affordable housing
- Want higher earning potential ($4,200/mo avg)
- Have children (lower childcare costs)
- Prioritize safety (score: 82/100)
Quality of Life & Safety
Beyond just costs - what matters for daily life
Quality of Life Score
Quality of Life Score
Safety Score
Safety Score
Salary Equivalence
How much you'd need in London to match a Chicago salary
| Salary in Chicago | Equivalent in London | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $73,529 | $23,529 more |
| $75,000 | $110,294 | $35,294 more |
| $100,000 | $147,059 | $47,059 more |
| $125,000 | $183,824 | $58,824 more |
| $150,000 | $220,588 | $70,588 more |
| $200,000 | $294,118 | $94,118 more |
Chicago vs London: Summary
The overall cost of living differs by 32%. Chicago is the more affordable option.
Rent: Chicago has a rent index of 55, while London has 100.
Average Salaries: Chicago: $4,200/month vs London: $3,800/month (both in USD).
Out of 6 categories, Chicago wins 6, while London wins 0.
Compare more cities or calculate your US take-home pay.