Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 104.5 in Baltimore, MD in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 0.9% less expensive than Baltimore; housing rents differ by 5% (112.0 vs 118.2). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $75,646 buys in Baltimore, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Baltimore | Chicago vs Baltimore |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 104.5 | -0.9% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 102.4 | +4.8% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 118.2 | -5.2% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 110.2 | -24.2% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 101.5 | -1.0% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 106.4 | -0.9% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Baltimore | $50,431 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Baltimore | $100,861 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Baltimore | $151,292 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.