Is Baton Rouge or Chicago more affordable?
Baton Rouge has a median rent of $1,050/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Baton Rouge is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Baton Rouge, LA vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Baton Rouge and Chicago.
4
Baton Rouge wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Chicago wins
LA
Baton Rouge
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
227,549
Population
2,742,119
$49,000
Median Income
+34.2%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,050✓
Median Rent / mo
+15.1%$1,209
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+26.2%$277,600
26%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
4.25%✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
9.95%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
79°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
58°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
219 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
60"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Baton Rouge, LA
Baton Rouge is a city in Louisiana with a population of 227,549.
Read full Baton Rouge guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Baton Rouge vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Baton Rouge or Chicago?
Louisiana has a 4.25% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Baton Rouge wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Baton Rouge and Chicago?
Baton Rouge gets 219 sunny days/year. Avg high in Baton Rouge: 79°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Baton Rouge or Chicago?
Baton Rouge. 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.