Is Salt Lake City or Chicago more affordable?
Salt Lake City has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Salt Lake City, UT vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Salt Lake City and Chicago.
2
Salt Lake City wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Chicago wins
UT
Salt Lake City
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
199,723
Population
2,742,119
$58,000
Median Income
+13.4%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-16.6%$1,209✓
$480,000
Median Home Price
-42.2%$277,600✓
30%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
4.65%✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
7.75%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
65°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
41°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
222 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
17"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Salt Lake City vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Salt Lake City or Chicago?
Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Salt Lake City wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Salt Lake City and Chicago?
Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Salt Lake City or Chicago?
Salt Lake City. 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.