Is Virginia Beach or Chicago more affordable?
Virginia Beach has a median rent of $1,350/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Virginia Beach, VA vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Virginia Beach and Chicago.
2
Virginia Beach wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Chicago wins
VA
Virginia Beach
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
459,470
Population
2,742,119
$71,551✓
Median Income
-8.1%$65,781
Cost of Living
$1,350
Median Rent / mo
-10.4%$1,209✓
$340,000
Median Home Price
-18.4%$277,600✓
23%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
5.75%
State Income Tax
4.95%✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
67°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
48°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
213 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
46"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach is a city in Virginia with a population of 459,470.
Read full Virginia Beach guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Virginia Beach vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Virginia Beach or Chicago?
Virginia has a 5.75% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Chicago wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Virginia Beach and Chicago?
Virginia Beach gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Virginia Beach: 67°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Virginia Beach or Chicago?
Virginia Beach. 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.