Is Arlington or Chicago more affordable?
Arlington has a median rent of $1,300/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Arlington, TX vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Arlington and Chicago.
2
Arlington wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Chicago wins
TX
Arlington
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
394,266
Population
2,742,119
$58,154
Median Income
+13.1%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,300
Median Rent / mo
-7.0%$1,209✓
$290,000
Median Home Price
-4.3%$277,600✓
27%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
55°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
229 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
36"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Arlington, TX
Arlington is a city in Texas with a population of 394,266.
Read full Arlington guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Arlington vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Arlington or Chicago?
Texas has no state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Arlington wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Arlington and Chicago?
Arlington gets 229 sunny days/year. Avg high in Arlington: 77°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Arlington or Chicago?
Arlington. Chicago. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.