Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
19% cheaper
Cleveland is 19% more affordable than Chicago. A $75,000 salary in Chicago is equivalent to $60,981 in Cleveland.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Illinois salaries · Ohio salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Chicago has a housing index of 112 while Cleveland sits at 59 (national average = 100). The median home in Chicago costs $310,000 compared to $100,000 in Cleveland, a difference of $210,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Chicago versus $900 in Cleveland.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Chicago scores 104 while Cleveland scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Chicago (101) are higher than Cleveland (96). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Chicago is $62,097 compared to $32,053 in Cleveland. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Cleveland.
Amazon affiliate links