Is Chicago or Louisville more affordable?
Chicago has a median rent of $1,209/month, while Louisville is $1,050/month. Louisville is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Chicago, IL vs Louisville, KY
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Chicago and Louisville.
1
Chicago wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Louisville wins
IL
Chicago
vs
KY
Louisville
Overview
2,742,119
Population
633,045
$65,781✓
Median Income
-15.1%$55,834
Cost of Living
$1,209
Median Rent / mo
-13.2%$1,050✓
$277,600
Median Home Price
-15.3%$235,000✓
22%
Rent-to-Income %
23%
Taxes
4.95%
State Income Tax
4.00%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
54.12°F
Avg High Temp
65°F
49.03°F
Avg Low Temp
44°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
195 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
46"
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
Louisville, KY
Louisville is a city in Kentucky with a population of 633,045.
Read full Louisville guide →Chicago vs Louisville — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Chicago or Louisville?
Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Kentucky has a 4.00% state income tax. Louisville wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Chicago and Louisville?
Louisville gets 195 sunny days/year. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F. Avg high in Louisville: 65°F
Which city is better for families — Chicago or Louisville?
Chicago. Louisville. 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.