How Much Does Cost of Living Cost in Chicago, IL?
Monthly cost of living for a single person. Updated March 2026 with data from BLS, U.S. Census Bureau, and industry surveys.
Typical Cost Range
$2.675 – $5.885
+7% vs national average
$2.675$4.280$5.885
LowNational avg: $4.000High
Chicago vs State & National Average
| Category | Chicago | Illinois Avg | National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average cost | $4.280 | $4.266 | $4.000 |
| Low estimate | $2.675 | $3.200 | $3.000 |
| High estimate | $5.885 | $5.546 | $5.200 |
Detailed Cost Breakdown
| Item | Low | High | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing / Rent | $1.070 | $2.675 | per month |
| Groceries | $321 | $642 | per month |
| Transportation | $214 | $535 | per month |
| Utilities | $161 | $321 | per month |
| Healthcare | $214 | $535 | per month |
| Entertainment | $107 | $321 | per month |
Cost of Living in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does cost of living cost in Chicago?
In Chicago, IL, cost of living typically costs between $2.675 and $5.885. The average is $4.280, which is 7% above the national average.
Is Chicago expensive for cost of living?
Chicago has a cost-of-living index of 107 (100 = national average). Cost of Living costs are 7% higher than the national average of $4.000.
What factors affect cost of living costs in Chicago?
Key factors include local labor costs, cost of materials, market competition, Illinois state regulations, and Chicago's overall cost of living (index: 107/100). Prices can also vary by season and specific requirements.