Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Houston, TX
Analyzing index metrics between Chicago and Houston relative to the US average baseline (100). Chicago is estimated to be 20% more expensive overall than Houston. Rental housing in Houston runs about 27% lower than in Chicago.
Side-by-Side Index Breakdown
| Index Category | Chicago, IL | Houston, TX | Difference for Houston |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living | 120 | 100 | -17% |
| Rent Index | 130 | 95 | -27% |
| Home Price Index | 135 | 110 | -19% |
| Utilities | 105 | 98 | -7% |
| Groceries | 110 | 99 | -10% |
| Transportation | 118 | 97 | -18% |
| Healthcare | 112 | 100 | -11% |
Chicago, IL
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Chicago.
Houston, TX
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Houston.
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 Houston, TX
This side-by-side cost-of-living comparison analyzes the financial differences between Chicago, IL (overall index 120) and Houston, TX (overall index 100). Chicago, IL is estimated to be 20% more expensive overall than Houston, TX. Use this data to plan your monthly budget and compare housing, transit, utility, and grocery expenses.