Is Seattle or Chicago more affordable?
Seattle has a median rent of $1,801/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Seattle, WA vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Seattle and Chicago.
2
Seattle wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Chicago wins
WA
Seattle
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
726,054
Population
2,742,119
$105,391✓
Median Income
-37.6%$65,781
Cost of Living
$1,801
Median Rent / mo
-32.9%$1,209✓
$767,500
Median Home Price
-63.8%$277,600✓
21%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
49.82°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
46.72°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Seattle vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Seattle or Chicago?
Washington has no state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Seattle and Chicago?
Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Seattle or Chicago?
Seattle. 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.