Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 94.7 in Pittsburgh, PA in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 9.4% more expensive than Pittsburgh; housing rents differ by 56% (112.0 vs 72.0). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $68,539 buys in Pittsburgh, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Pittsburgh | Chicago vs Pittsburgh |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 94.7 | +9.4% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 100.7 | +6.5% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 72.0 | +55.6% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 107.7 | -22.4% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 97.7 | +2.8% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 92.4 | +14.1% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Pittsburgh | $45,693 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Pittsburgh | $91,386 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Pittsburgh | $137,079 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.