Chicago vs Denver: Cost of Living Comparison
Chicago and Denver are both vibrant metros that combine strong job markets with exceptional outdoor and cultural amenities, making them popular with young professionals and families alike. Chicago is the Midwest's undisputed capital with a world-class food scene, stunning lakefront architecture, and a diverse economy spanning finance, tech, manufacturing, and healthcare. Denver offers Rocky Mountain access, 300 days of sunshine, and a growing tech sector that has attracted a wave of Chicagoans tired of Lake Michigan winters. Illinois's higher income tax and property tax burden give Denver a slight edge on paper, though Chicago's lower housing costs in many neighborhoods and its more extensive public transit system can balance the equation depending on your lifestyle and commute.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Chicago | Denver | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Index | 118 | 127 | Chicago |
| Housing | 138 | 168 | Chicago |
| Groceries | 104 | 104 | Tie |
| Transportation | 113 | 107 | Denver |
| Utilities | 99 | 97 | Denver |
Index values are estimates for general comparison purposes relative to a national average of 100. Lower is cheaper. Actual costs vary by neighborhood, household size, and lifestyle.
Visual Cost Comparison
Overall Index
Housing
Groceries
Transportation
Utilities
Green bars indicate the more affordable city in each category. National average = 100.
Salary Equivalent: Chicago vs Denver
To maintain the same standard of living, here's what salaries earned in Chicago are worth in Denver - and vice versa.
| Salary in Chicago | Equivalent in Denver | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $53,814 | +$3,814 |
| $75,000 | $80,720 | +$5,720 |
| $100,000 | $107,627 | +$7,627 |
| $150,000 | $161,441 | +$11,441 |
Denver is more expensive, so you need more income to maintain your standard of living.
Category-by-Category Breakdown
Housing (Chicago wins): Housing is 22% cheaper in Chicago than Denver. Denver has a housing index of 168 vs 138. This is typically the largest expense category and drives most of the overall cost difference.
Groceries (Tie): Grocery costs in Chicago (index 104) are equal to Denver (index 104). Both cities are above the national average for groceries.
Transportation (Denver wins): Transportation costs index 113 in Chicago vs 107 in Denver. This includes gas prices, car insurance, public transit fares, and vehicle maintenance. The 6-point gap can add up, especially for commuters.
Utilities (Denver wins): Utilities cost more in Chicago (index 99) than Denver (index 97). This covers electricity, natural gas, water, sewage, internet, and phone service. Climate plays a significant role - cities with extreme temperatures tend to have higher utility costs.
Get Free Moving Quotes
Compare prices from up to 3 local movers. No obligation, no spam.
Want to Estimate Costs Before Getting Quotes?
Use our free calculator to build a detailed moving budget - movers, truck rental, flights, deposits, and all the hidden costs.
Open Free Moving Cost Calculator →Related Comparisons
FAQ - Chicago vs Denver Cost of Living
Is Chicago or Denver more expensive to live in?
Denver is more expensive overall, with a cost of living index of 127 compared to 118 (national average = 100). The biggest difference is in housing, where Denver costs 30 index points more.
How much more expensive is housing in Denver vs Chicago?
Housing in Denver has an index of 168 compared to 138 in Chicago. That's 22% more expensive. Housing is typically the largest factor in cost of living differences between cities.
What is a $100,000 salary in Chicago worth in Denver?
A $100,000 salary in Chicago is equivalent to approximately $107,627 in Denver. This means you would need to earn more in Denver to maintain the same standard of living.
Are groceries cheaper in Chicago or Denver?
Groceries are cheaper in Denver, with an index of 104 compared to 104 in Chicago. The national average is 100, so both cities are above the national average.
Should I move from Chicago to Denver to save money?
Denver is actually more expensive than Chicago overall, with an index 9 points higher. However, consider your specific situation - salary differences between markets, state income taxes, and lifestyle preferences all factor in. Use our free calculator to estimate total relocation costs.