Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 93.1 in Louisville/Jefferson County, KY in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 11.3% more expensive than Louisville/Jefferson County; housing rents differ by 43% (112.0 vs 78.6). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $67,383 buys in Louisville/Jefferson County, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Louisville/Jefferson County | Chicago vs Louisville/Jefferson County |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 93.1 | +11.3% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 96.2 | +11.5% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 78.6 | +42.6% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 75.0 | +11.5% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 96.8 | +3.8% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 93.2 | +13.1% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Louisville/Jefferson County | $44,922 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Louisville/Jefferson County | $89,844 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Louisville/Jefferson County | $134,766 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.