Is Chicago more expensive than New York?

Chicago is 32.0% cheaper than New York overall. Rent is 47.4% lower, groceries 16.5% cheaper, and restaurants 16.1% cheaper.

Which city has better purchasing power, New York or Chicago?

New York has a purchasing power index of 100.0 while Chicago has 141.4 (NYC = 100). Chicago offers better purchasing power.

New York vs Chicago: Chicago is 32.0% cheaper, rent 47% lower (2026)

Category	🇺🇸 New York	🇺🇸 Chicago	Difference
Cost of Living	100.0	68.0	-32.0%
Rent	100.0	52.6	-47.4%
Groceries	100.0	83.5	-16.5%
Restaurants	100.0	83.9	-16.1%
Purchasing Power	100.0	141.4	+41.4%

Data from March – October 2026 · Cost of living: Numbeo, blended with Expatistan and LivingCost where available. Rent, groceries, restaurants and purchasing power: Numbeo (NYC = 100) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇺🇸 Cost of Living in New York

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🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Chicago

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🇺🇸 Should I Move to New York?

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🇺🇸 Should I Move to Chicago?

🇺🇸 New York vs 🇺🇸 Chicago

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