Is Portland or Chicago more affordable?
Portland has a median rent of $1,406/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Portland, OR vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Portland and Chicago.
1
Portland wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Chicago wins
OR
Portland
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
647,176
Population
2,742,119
$78,476✓
Median Income
-16.2%$65,781
Cost of Living
$1,406
Median Rent / mo
-14.0%$1,209✓
$462,800
Median Home Price
-40.0%$277,600✓
21%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
9.90%
State Income Tax
4.95%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
50.49°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
46.76°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Portland, OR
Portland is a city in Oregon with a population of 647,176.
Read full Portland guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Portland vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Portland or Chicago?
Oregon has a 9.90% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Chicago wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Portland and Chicago?
Avg high in Portland: 50.49°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Portland or Chicago?
Portland. 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.