Cost of Living: San Francisco, CA vs Chicago, IL
Analyzing index metrics between San Francisco and Chicago relative to the US average baseline (100). San Francisco is estimated to be 70% more expensive overall than Chicago. Rental housing in Chicago runs about 43% lower than in San Francisco.
Side-by-Side Index Breakdown
| Index Category | San Francisco, CA | Chicago, IL | Difference for Chicago |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost of Living | 190 | 120 | -37% |
| Rent Index | 230 | 130 | -43% |
| Home Price Index | 260 | 135 | -48% |
| Utilities | 120 | 105 | -12% |
| Groceries | 140 | 110 | -21% |
| Transportation | 150 | 118 | -21% |
| Healthcare | 125 | 112 | -10% |
San Francisco, CA
Read a complete breakdown of rent distributions, home pricing indexes, utility rates, and local services in San Francisco.
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: San Francisco, CA vs Chicago, IL
This side-by-side cost-of-living comparison analyzes the financial differences between San Francisco, CA (overall index 190) and Chicago, IL (overall index 120). San Francisco, CA is estimated to be 70% more expensive overall than Chicago, IL. Use this data to plan your monthly budget and compare housing, transit, utility, and grocery expenses.