Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
40% cheaper
Chicago is 40% more affordable than Irvine. A $75,000 salary in Irvine is equivalent to $45,084 in Chicago.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Illinois salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Chicago has a housing index of 112 while Irvine sits at 294 (national average = 100). The median home in Chicago costs $310,000 compared to $1,050,000 in Irvine, a difference of $740,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Chicago versus $3,000 in Irvine.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Chicago scores 104 while Irvine scores 108.
Healthcare costs in Chicago (101) are lower than Irvine (109).
Median household income in Chicago is $62,097 compared to $108,038 in Irvine. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Chicago.
Amazon affiliate links