Is Louisville or Chicago more affordable?
Louisville has a median rent of $1,050/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Louisville is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Louisville, KY vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Louisville and Chicago.
4
Louisville wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Chicago wins
KY
Louisville
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
633,045
Population
2,742,119
$55,834
Median Income
+17.8%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,050✓
Median Rent / mo
+15.1%$1,209
$235,000✓
Median Home Price
+18.1%$277,600
23%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
4.00%✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
65°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
44°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
195 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
46"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Louisville, KY
Louisville is a city in Kentucky with a population of 633,045.
Read full Louisville guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Louisville vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Louisville or Chicago?
Kentucky has a 4.00% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Louisville wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Louisville and Chicago?
Louisville gets 195 sunny days/year. Avg high in Louisville: 65°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Louisville or Chicago?
Louisville. 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.