Is Denver or Chicago more affordable?
Denver has a median rent of $1,495/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Denver, CO vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Denver and Chicago.
2
Denver wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Chicago wins
CO
Denver
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
706,799
Population
2,742,119
$78,177✓
Median Income
-15.9%$65,781
Cost of Living
$1,495
Median Rent / mo
-19.1%$1,209✓
$459,100
Median Home Price
-39.5%$277,600✓
23%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
4.40%✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
56.19°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
51.3°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Denver, CO
Denver is a city in Colorado with a population of 706,799.
Read full Denver guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Denver vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Denver or Chicago?
Colorado has a 4.40% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Denver wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Denver and Chicago?
Avg high in Denver: 56.19°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Denver or Chicago?
Denver. 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.