Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
19% cheaper
Corpus Christi is 19% more affordable than Chicago. A $75,000 salary in Chicago is equivalent to $60,981 in Corpus Christi.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Illinois salaries · Texas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Chicago has a housing index of 112 while Corpus Christi sits at 69 (national average = 100). The median home in Chicago costs $310,000 compared to $195,000 in Corpus Christi, a difference of $115,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Chicago versus $1,100 in Corpus Christi.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Chicago scores 104 while Corpus Christi scores 94.
Healthcare costs in Chicago (101) are higher than Corpus Christi (93). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Chicago is $62,097 compared to $53,238 in Corpus Christi. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Corpus Christi.
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