Is Tulsa or Chicago more affordable?
Tulsa has a median rent of $950/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Tulsa is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Tulsa, OK vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Tulsa and Chicago.
4
Tulsa wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Chicago wins
OK
Tulsa
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
413,066
Population
2,742,119
$48,000
Median Income
+37.0%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$950✓
Median Rent / mo
+27.3%$1,209
$190,000✓
Median Home Price
+46.1%$277,600
24%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
4.75%✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
8.52%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
70°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
49°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
216 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
42"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Tulsa, OK
Tulsa is a city in Oklahoma with a population of 413,066.
Read full Tulsa guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Tulsa vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Tulsa or Chicago?
Oklahoma has a 4.75% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Tulsa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Tulsa and Chicago?
Tulsa gets 216 sunny days/year. Avg high in Tulsa: 70°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Tulsa or Chicago?
Tulsa. 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.