Is Chicago or El Paso more affordable?
Chicago has a median rent of $1,209/month, while El Paso is $900/month. El Paso is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Chicago, IL vs El Paso, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Chicago and El Paso.
1
Chicago wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
El Paso wins
IL
Chicago
vs
TX
El Paso
Overview
2,742,119
Population
678,815
$65,781✓
Median Income
-33.1%$44,000
Cost of Living
$1,209
Median Rent / mo
-25.6%$900✓
$277,600
Median Home Price
-37.0%$175,000✓
22%
Rent-to-Income %
25%
Taxes
4.95%
State Income Tax
None✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
54.12°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
49.03°F
Avg Low Temp
52°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
297 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
10"
Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Who should choose
El Paso, TX
El Paso is a city in Texas with a population of 678,815.
Read full El Paso guide →Chicago vs El Paso — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Chicago or El Paso?
Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. El Paso wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Chicago and El Paso?
El Paso gets 297 sunny days/year. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F. Avg high in El Paso: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Chicago or El Paso?
Chicago. El Paso. 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.