Arlington Heights, IL vs Chicago, IL: Cost of Living Comparison
Chicago has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Arlington Heights | Chicago | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 119 | 98 | Chicago |
| Housing | 116 ($1,209) | 91 ($966) | Chicago |
| Transportation | 100 ($3.50) | 109 ($3.50) | Arlington Heights |
| Food & groceries | 159 ($652) | 101 ($414) | Chicago |
| Utilities | 108 ($209) | 96 ($164) | Chicago |
| Healthcare | 108 ($151) | 96 ($118) | Chicago |
| Median annual wage | 107 ($51,960) | 107 ($51,960) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arlington Heights, IL or Chicago, IL cheaper to live in?
Chicago, IL is cheaper overall by about 21 index points (Arlington Heights, IL: 119, Chicago, IL: 98; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Arlington Heights, IL vs Chicago, IL?
A single adult needs roughly $41,650/year in Arlington Heights, IL and $34,300/year in Chicago, IL to cover basic living costs.