Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
21% cheaper
El Paso is 21% more affordable than Chicago. A $75,000 salary in Chicago is equivalent to $59,579 in El Paso.
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 El Paso sits at 69 (national average = 100). The median home in Chicago costs $310,000 compared to $185,000 in El Paso, a difference of $125,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Chicago versus $1,000 in El Paso.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Chicago scores 104 while El Paso scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Chicago (101) are higher than El Paso (89).
Median household income in Chicago is $62,097 compared to $47,568 in El Paso. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in El Paso.
Amazon affiliate links