Is Baltimore or Chicago more affordable?
Baltimore has a median rent of $1,400/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Baltimore, MD vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Baltimore and Chicago.
2
Baltimore wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Chicago wins
MD
Baltimore
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
576,498
Population
2,742,119
$52,164
Median Income
+26.1%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,400
Median Rent / mo
-13.6%$1,209✓
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+26.2%$277,600
32%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
5.75%
State Income Tax
4.95%✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
45°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
210 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
43"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Baltimore, MD
Baltimore is a city in Maryland with a population of 576,498.
Read full Baltimore guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Baltimore vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Baltimore or Chicago?
Maryland has a 5.75% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Chicago wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Baltimore and Chicago?
Baltimore gets 210 sunny days/year. Avg high in Baltimore: 64°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Baltimore or Chicago?
Baltimore. 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.