Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 102.6 in Philadelphia, PA in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 1.0% more expensive than Philadelphia; housing rents differ by 1% (112.0 vs 113.1). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $74,246 buys in Philadelphia, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Philadelphia | Chicago vs Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 102.6 | +1.0% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 96.8 | +10.8% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 113.1 | -1.0% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 114.4 | -26.9% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 103.1 | -2.5% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 106.4 | -0.9% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Philadelphia | $49,498 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Philadelphia | $98,995 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Philadelphia | $148,493 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.