- Purchase the complete Expat Arrivals Chicago Guide (PDF)
While the cost of living in Chicago may not be as high as other US cities such as New York and San Francisco, it's by no means a cheap place to live. In the 2021 Mercer Cost of Living survey, Chicago is ranked the world's 45th most expensive city of the 209 cities surveyed. With Chicago’s growth as a major financial and business destination in the USA, there has been a general increase in development and cost of living. New arrivals should therefore ensure that their earnings will be enough to cover life in Chicago.
Cost of accommodation in Chicago
For expats living in Chicago, accommodation is likely to be the largest expense. Ultimately, how much a person spends on rent will depend on the area or suburb they choose to live in as well as whether they opt for an apartment or freestanding house. Areas close to the city centre are pricier than outlying suburbs.
Cost of transport in Chicago
Those moving to Chicago will be glad to know that they won’t necessarily need to invest in a car. The city has a comprehensive, efficient and reasonably priced public transport network consisting mainly of buses and subway lines. To save money, it's a good idea for regular commuters to invest in a monthly pass.
Cost of education in Chicago
There are many good public schools in Chicago that can be attended free of charge. Expats who choose to send their children to a private or international school should check whether their employment relocation package includes an allowance for their children’s school fees as these can be high.
Cost of entertainment in Chicago
Entertainment and leisure pursuits in Chicago are generally more reasonably priced than in many other US cities. There are also plenty of activities in Chicago which cost little or nothing. For example, most museums have one day a week where there are no entrance fees. There are also lots of free music and arts festivals that take place in Chicago throughout the year, and plenty of public parks to enjoy at no cost at all.
Cost of living in Chicago chart
Prices may vary depending on area and service provider. The chart below shows average prices for February 2022.
Accommodation (monthly) |
|
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
USD 3,600 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
USD 2,200 |
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
USD 1,800 |
One-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
USD 1,300 |
Shopping |
|
Dozen eggs |
USD 2.25 |
Milk (1 litre) |
USD 0.85 |
Rice (1 kg) |
USD 4 |
Loaf of white bread |
USD 2.85 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
USD 9 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
USD 15 |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac Meal |
USD 8 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
USD 2 |
Cappuccino |
USD 4.30 |
Local beer (500ml) |
USD 5 |
Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant |
USD 75 |
Utilities/household |
|
Mobile call rate (per minute – mobile to mobile) |
USD 0.30 |
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
USD 60 |
Monthly utilities (includes electricity, water and refuse) |
USD 160 |
Transportation |
|
Taxi rate/km |
USD 2.10 |
Bus fare in the city centre |
USD 2.50 |
Gasoline/petrol (per litre) |
USD 0.87 |
Are you an expat living in Chicago?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Chicago. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
If you’re thinking about taking out private health insurance, our trusted partner Cigna Global is very aware of all the difficulties that expats can face when it comes to healthcare in a new location, so they have created a range of international health insurance plans specifically designed for expats, which you can tailor exactly to the needs and ensure access to quality care for you and your family.
Moving Companies
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.