Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
7% cheaper
Norfolk is 7% more affordable than Chicago. A $75,000 salary in Chicago is equivalent to $69,393 in Norfolk.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Illinois salaries · Virginia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Chicago has a housing index of 112 while Norfolk sits at 95 (national average = 100). The median home in Chicago costs $310,000 compared to $250,000 in Norfolk, a difference of $60,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Chicago versus $1,300 in Norfolk.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Chicago scores 104 while Norfolk scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Chicago (101) are higher than Norfolk (99). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Chicago is $62,097 compared to $51,938 in Norfolk. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Norfolk.
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