Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
19% cheaper
Oklahoma City is 19% more affordable than Chicago. A $75,000 salary in Chicago is equivalent to $60,981 in Oklahoma City.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Illinois salaries · Oklahoma salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Chicago has a housing index of 112 while Oklahoma City sits at 68 (national average = 100). The median home in Chicago costs $310,000 compared to $195,000 in Oklahoma City, a difference of $115,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Chicago versus $1,000 in Oklahoma City.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Chicago scores 104 while Oklahoma City scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Chicago (101) are higher than Oklahoma City (92).
Median household income in Chicago is $62,097 compared to $55,458 in Oklahoma City. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Oklahoma City.
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