Cost of Living: Houston, TX vs Chicago, IL
Analyzing index metrics between Houston and Chicago relative to the US average baseline (100). Chicago is estimated to be 20% more expensive overall than Houston. Rental housing in Chicago runs about 37% higher than in Houston.
Side-by-Side Index Breakdown
| Index Category | Houston, TX | Chicago, IL | Difference for Chicago |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living | 100 | 120 | +20% |
| Rent Index | 95 | 130 | +37% |
| Home Price Index | 110 | 135 | +23% |
| Utilities | 98 | 105 | +7% |
| Groceries | 99 | 110 | +11% |
| Transportation | 97 | 118 | +22% |
| Healthcare | 100 | 112 | +12% |
Houston, TX
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in Houston.
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: Houston, TX vs Chicago, IL
This side-by-side cost-of-living comparison analyzes the financial differences between Houston, TX (overall index 100) and Chicago, IL (overall index 120). 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.