Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
11% cheaper
Fort Worth is 11% more affordable than Chicago. A $75,000 salary in Chicago is equivalent to $66,589 in Fort Worth.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Illinois salaries · Texas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Chicago has a housing index of 112 while Fort Worth sits at 87 (national average = 100). The median home in Chicago costs $310,000 compared to $270,000 in Fort Worth, a difference of $40,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Chicago versus $1,400 in Fort Worth.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Chicago scores 104 while Fort Worth scores 96. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Chicago (101) are higher than Fort Worth (100). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Chicago is $62,097 compared to $62,187 in Fort Worth. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Fort Worth.
Amazon affiliate links