Is Miami or Chicago more affordable?
Miami has a median rent of $1,361/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Miami, FL vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Miami and Chicago.
1
Miami wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Chicago wins
FL
Miami
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
440,807
Population
2,742,119
$47,860
Median Income
+37.4%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,361
Median Rent / mo
-11.2%$1,209✓
$369,100
Median Home Price
-24.8%$277,600✓
34%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
73.42°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
69.03°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Miami, FL
Miami is a city in Florida with a population of 440,807.
Read full Miami guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Miami vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Miami or Chicago?
Florida has no state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Miami wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Miami and Chicago?
Avg high in Miami: 73.42°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Miami or Chicago?
Miami. 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.