San Francisco vs Chicago

Cost of living comparison — which city stretches your money further?

San Francisco

United States

97.6cost index

San Francisco is 2.4000000000000057% cheaper than the US average.

More Affordable
Chicago

United States

76cost index

Chicago is 24% cheaper than the US average.

Price Difference

28.4%

San Francisco is 28.4% pricier than Chicago

Salary Equivalent

1.28x

If I earnin San Francisco
I need approx$77,869in Chicago

Understanding the San Francisco vs Chicago Comparison

The cost of living comparison between San Francisco, United States and Chicago, United Stateshighlights the economic differences between these two locations. With San Francisco at an index of 97.6and Chicago at 76, the data shows that Chicago is significantly more affordable for the average resident.

When moving or traveling between these cities, it's important to adjust your salary expectations. A salary in San Francisco does not have the same purchasing power as the same amount in Chicago. Our Global Mirror tool helps you visualize this difference by "mirroring" your current lifestyle in the target city.

Relocation & Price Comparison FAQ