Is Nashville or Chicago more affordable?
Nashville has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Nashville, TN vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Nashville and Chicago.
1
Nashville wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Chicago wins
TN
Nashville
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
682,646
Population
2,742,119
$65,565
Median Income
+0.3%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,250
Median Rent / mo
-3.3%$1,209✓
$291,400
Median Home Price
-4.7%$277,600✓
23%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
57.52°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
53.73°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Nashville, TN
Nashville is a city in Tennessee with a population of 682,646.
Read full Nashville guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Nashville vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Nashville or Chicago?
Tennessee has no state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Nashville wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Nashville and Chicago?
Avg high in Nashville: 57.52°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Nashville or Chicago?
Nashville. 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.