Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 96.3 in Nashville, TN in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 7.5% more expensive than Nashville; housing rents differ by 7% (112.0 vs 104.6). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $69,746 buys in Nashville, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Nashville | Chicago vs Nashville |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 96.3 | +7.5% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 96.2 | +11.4% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 104.6 | +7.1% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 72.0 | +16.2% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 95.1 | +5.6% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 95.7 | +10.2% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Nashville | $46,497 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Nashville | $92,995 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Nashville | $139,492 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.