Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 110.4 in San Jose, CA in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 6.2% less expensive than San Jose; housing rents differ by 47% (112.0 vs 211.9). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $79,943 buys in San Jose, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | San Jose | Chicago vs San Jose |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 110.4 | -6.2% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 105.2 | +2.0% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 211.9 | -47.1% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 156.7 | -46.6% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 100.3 | +0.2% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 119.3 | -11.6% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in San Jose | $53,296 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in San Jose | $106,591 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in San Jose | $159,887 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.