Is Chicago or Los Angeles more affordable?
Chicago has a median rent of $1,209/month, while Los Angeles is $1,852/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Chicago, IL vs Los Angeles, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Chicago and Los Angeles.
3
Chicago wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Los Angeles wins
IL
Chicago
vs
CA
Los Angeles
Overview
2,742,119
Population
3,898,747
$65,781
Median Income
+5.1%$69,144✓
Cost of Living
$1,209✓
Median Rent / mo
+53.2%$1,852
$277,600✓
Median Home Price
+170.2%$750,000
22%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
4.95%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
9.50%
Climate & Weather
54.12°F
Avg High Temp
75°F
49.03°F
Avg Low Temp
58°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
284 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
15"
Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Who should choose
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a city in California with a population of 3,898,747.
Read full Los Angeles guide →Chicago vs Los Angeles — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Chicago or Los Angeles?
Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Chicago wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Chicago and Los Angeles?
Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F
Which city is better for families — Chicago or Los Angeles?
Chicago. Los Angeles. 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.