Cost of Living: Denver, CO vs Chicago, IL
Analyzing index metrics between Denver and Chicago 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 | Denver, CO | Chicago, IL | Difference for Chicago |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living | 125 | 120 | -4% |
| Rent Index | 130 | 130 | Same |
| Home Price Index | 140 | 135 | -4% |
| Utilities | 108 | 105 | -3% |
| Groceries | 112 | 110 | -2% |
| Transportation | 115 | 118 | +3% |
| Healthcare | 109 | 112 | +3% |
Denver, CO
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Denver.
Chicago, IL
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Chicago.
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: Denver, CO vs Chicago, IL
This side-by-side cost-of-living comparison analyzes the financial differences between Denver, CO (overall index 125) and Chicago, IL (overall index 120). 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.