Is Chicago or Nashville more affordable?
Chicago has a median rent of $1,209/month, while Nashville is $1,250/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Chicago, IL vs Nashville, TN
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Chicago and Nashville.
3
Chicago wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Nashville wins
IL
Chicago
vs
TN
Nashville
Overview
2,742,119
Population
682,646
$65,781✓
Median Income
-0.3%$65,565
Cost of Living
$1,209✓
Median Rent / mo
+3.4%$1,250
$277,600✓
Median Home Price
+5.0%$291,400
22%
Rent-to-Income %
23%
Taxes
4.95%
State Income Tax
None✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
54.12°F
Avg High Temp
57.52°F
49.03°F
Avg Low Temp
53.73°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
N/A
Annual Rainfall
N/A
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
Nashville, TN
Nashville is a city in Tennessee with a population of 682,646.
Read full Nashville guide →Chicago vs Nashville — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Chicago or Nashville?
Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Tennessee has no state income tax. Nashville wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Chicago and Nashville?
Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F. Avg high in Nashville: 57.52°F
Which city is better for families — Chicago or Nashville?
Chicago. Nashville. 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.