Is Austin or Chicago more affordable?
Austin has a median rent of $1,415/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Austin, TX vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Austin and Chicago.
2
Austin wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Chicago wins
TX
Austin
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
944,658
Population
2,742,119
$78,965✓
Median Income
-16.7%$65,781
Cost of Living
$1,415
Median Rent / mo
-14.6%$1,209✓
$381,400
Median Home Price
-27.2%$277,600✓
22%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
71.28°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
68.16°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Austin, TX
Austin is a city in Texas with a population of 944,658.
Read full Austin guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Austin vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Austin or Chicago?
Texas has no state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Austin wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Austin and Chicago?
Avg high in Austin: 71.28°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Austin or Chicago?
Austin. Chicago. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.