Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 115.6 in San Francisco, CA in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 10.4% less expensive than San Francisco; housing rents differ by 42% (112.0 vs 194.7). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $83,701 buys in San Francisco, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | San Francisco | Chicago vs San Francisco |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 115.6 | -10.4% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 108.5 | -1.1% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 194.7 | -42.5% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 172.6 | -51.6% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 106.2 | -5.4% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 119.1 | -11.5% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in San Francisco | $55,800 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in San Francisco | $111,601 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in San Francisco | $167,401 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.