Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 102.7 in Hartford, CT in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 0.8% more expensive than Hartford; housing rents differ by 2% (112.0 vs 110.2). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $74,385 buys in Hartford, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Hartford | Chicago vs Hartford |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 102.7 | +0.8% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 97.3 | +10.2% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 110.2 | +1.6% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 144.9 | -42.3% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 102.7 | -2.1% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 104.8 | +0.6% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Hartford | $49,590 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Hartford | $99,180 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Hartford | $148,771 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.