Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
13% cheaper
Chicago is 13% more affordable than Scottsdale. A $75,000 salary in Scottsdale is equivalent to $65,244 in Chicago.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Illinois salaries · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Chicago has a housing index of 112 while Scottsdale sits at 162 (national average = 100). The median home in Chicago costs $310,000 compared to $580,000 in Scottsdale, a difference of $270,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Chicago versus $2,000 in Scottsdale.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Chicago scores 104 while Scottsdale scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Chicago (101) are higher than Scottsdale (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Chicago is $62,097 compared to $92,298 in Scottsdale. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Chicago.
Amazon affiliate links