Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 95.7 in Indianapolis, IN in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 8.3% more expensive than Indianapolis; housing rents differ by 26% (112.0 vs 88.9). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $69,281 buys in Indianapolis, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Indianapolis | Chicago vs Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 95.7 | +8.3% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 94.3 | +13.7% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 88.9 | +26.0% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 86.4 | -3.2% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 99.1 | +1.4% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 96.7 | +9.0% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Indianapolis | $46,188 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Indianapolis | $92,375 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Indianapolis | $138,563 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.