Is Chicago or San Antonio more affordable?
Chicago has a median rent of $1,209/month, while San Antonio is $1,100/month. San Antonio is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Chicago, IL vs San Antonio, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Chicago and San Antonio.
1
Chicago wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
San Antonio wins
IL
Chicago
vs
TX
San Antonio
Overview
2,742,119
Population
1,434,625
$65,781✓
Median Income
-20.3%$52,455
Cost of Living
$1,209
Median Rent / mo
-9.0%$1,100✓
$277,600
Median Home Price
-9.9%$250,000✓
22%
Rent-to-Income %
25%
Taxes
4.95%
State Income Tax
None✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
54.12°F
Avg High Temp
79°F
49.03°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
220 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
32"
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
San Antonio, TX
San Antonio is a city in Texas with a population of 1,434,625.
Read full San Antonio guide →Chicago vs San Antonio — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Chicago or San Antonio?
Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. San Antonio wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Chicago and San Antonio?
San Antonio gets 220 sunny days/year. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F. Avg high in San Antonio: 79°F
Which city is better for families — Chicago or San Antonio?
Chicago. San Antonio. 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.