Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 105.8 in Denver, CO in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 2.1% less expensive than Denver; housing rents differ by 24% (112.0 vs 146.9). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $76,583 buys in Denver, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Denver | Chicago vs Denver |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 105.8 | -2.1% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 101.0 | +6.2% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 146.9 | -23.8% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 87.9 | -4.9% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 99.4 | +1.0% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 105.8 | -0.3% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Denver | $51,056 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Denver | $102,111 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Denver | $153,167 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.