Is Spokane or Chicago more affordable?
Spokane has a median rent of $1,200/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Spokane is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Spokane, WA vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Spokane and Chicago.
3
Spokane wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Chicago wins
WA
Spokane
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
228,989
Population
2,742,119
$51,000
Median Income
+29.0%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,200✓
Median Rent / mo
+0.8%$1,209
$330,000
Median Home Price
-15.9%$277,600✓
28%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
8.90%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
57°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
37°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
172 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
17"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Spokane, WA
Spokane is a city in Washington with a population of 228,989.
Read full Spokane guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Spokane vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Spokane or Chicago?
Washington has no state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Spokane wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Spokane and Chicago?
Spokane gets 172 sunny days/year. Avg high in Spokane: 57°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Spokane or Chicago?
Spokane. 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.