Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 97.3 in Charlotte, NC in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 6.4% more expensive than Charlotte; housing rents differ by 15% (112.0 vs 97.6). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $70,477 buys in Charlotte, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Charlotte | Chicago vs Charlotte |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 97.3 | +6.4% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 96.6 | +11.1% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 97.6 | +14.7% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 89.2 | -6.3% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 98.2 | +2.3% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 95.3 | +10.6% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Charlotte | $46,985 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Charlotte | $93,970 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Charlotte | $140,955 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.