Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Denver, CO
Analyzing index metrics between Chicago and Denver relative to the US average baseline (100). Denver is estimated to be 5% more expensive overall than Chicago. Rent costs are roughly equivalent in both cities.
Side-by-Side Index Breakdown
| Index Category | Chicago, IL | Denver, CO | Difference for Denver |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living | 120 | 125 | +4% |
| Rent Index | 130 | 130 | Same |
| Home Price Index | 135 | 140 | +4% |
| Utilities | 105 | 108 | +3% |
| Groceries | 110 | 112 | +2% |
| Transportation | 118 | 115 | -3% |
| Healthcare | 112 | 109 | -3% |
Chicago, IL
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Chicago.
Denver, CO
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Denver.
Planning a move between these cities?
Cost of living indexes provide a directional guide, but real rent rates, local tax regulations, and commute patterns fluctuate by neighborhood.
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Cost of Living Comparison: Chicago, IL vs Denver, CO
This side-by-side cost-of-living comparison analyzes the financial differences between Chicago, IL (overall index 120) and Denver, CO (overall index 125). Denver, CO is estimated to be 5% more expensive overall than Chicago, IL. Use this data to plan your monthly budget and compare housing, transit, utility, and grocery expenses.