Is Tampa or Chicago more affordable?
Tampa has a median rent of $1,700/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Tampa, FL vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Tampa and Chicago.
2
Tampa wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Chicago wins
FL
Tampa
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
400,753
Population
2,742,119
$56,842
Median Income
+15.7%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,700
Median Rent / mo
-28.9%$1,209✓
$375,000
Median Home Price
-26.0%$277,600✓
36%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
7.50%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
81°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
61°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
246 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
47"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Tampa, FL
Tampa is a city in Florida with a population of 400,753.
Read full Tampa guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Tampa vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Tampa or Chicago?
Florida has no state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Tampa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Tampa and Chicago?
Tampa gets 246 sunny days/year. Avg high in Tampa: 81°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Tampa or Chicago?
Tampa. 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.