Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 95.4 in Cincinnati, OH in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 8.6% more expensive than Cincinnati; housing rents differ by 28% (112.0 vs 87.6). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $69,045 buys in Cincinnati, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Cincinnati | Chicago vs Cincinnati |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 95.4 | +8.6% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 93.8 | +14.4% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 87.6 | +27.9% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 91.0 | -8.1% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 99.0 | +1.5% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 97.1 | +8.6% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Cincinnati | $46,030 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Cincinnati | $92,060 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Cincinnati | $138,091 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.