Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 101.8 in Providence, RI in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 1.8% more expensive than Providence; housing rents differ by 8% (112.0 vs 103.9). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $73,681 buys in Providence, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Providence | Chicago vs Providence |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 101.8 | +1.8% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 97.1 | +10.4% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 103.9 | +7.9% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 148.8 | -43.8% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 102.3 | -1.7% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 103.7 | +1.7% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Providence | $49,121 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Providence | $98,241 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Providence | $147,362 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.