Quick answer
Overall prices in the Los Angeles, CA metro were 113.6 vs 103.6 in Chicago, IL in 2024 (US = 100), so Los Angeles is 9.6% more expensive than Chicago; housing rents differ by 52% (170.4 vs 112.0). A $75,000 income in Los Angeles buys about what $68,415 buys in Chicago, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Los Angeles | Chicago | Los Angeles vs Chicago |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 113.6 | 103.6 | +9.6% |
| Goods | 106.6 | 107.3 | -0.6% |
| Housing (rents) | 170.4 | 112.0 | +52.2% |
| Utilities | 158.6 | 83.6 | +89.7% |
| Other services | 104.4 | 100.5 | +3.9% |
| All items, 2008 | 113.3 | 105.4 | +7.5% |
| $50,000 in Los Angeles equals in Chicago | $45,610 | ||
| $100,000 in Los Angeles equals in Chicago | $91,220 | ||
| $150,000 in Los Angeles equals in Chicago | $136,830 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.