Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 95.8 in Buffalo, NY in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 8.1% more expensive than Buffalo; housing rents differ by 38% (112.0 vs 81.0). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $69,388 buys in Buffalo, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Buffalo | Chicago vs Buffalo |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 95.8 | +8.1% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 99.7 | +7.6% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 81.0 | +38.3% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 129.5 | -35.5% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 97.8 | +2.8% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 97.0 | +8.7% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Buffalo | $46,259 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Buffalo | $92,518 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Buffalo | $138,777 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.