Is Boston or Chicago more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Chicago.
1
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Chicago wins
MA
Boston
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
672,814
Population
2,742,119
$81,744✓
Median Income
-19.5%$65,781
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-32.2%$1,209✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-54.5%$277,600✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
5.00%
State Income Tax
4.95%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Boston vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Chicago?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Chicago wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Chicago?
Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Chicago?
Boston. 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.