Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 108.9 in Washington, DC in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 4.9% less expensive than Washington; housing rents differ by 26% (112.0 vs 151.1). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $78,829 buys in Washington, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | Washington | Chicago vs Washington |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 108.9 | -4.9% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 104.8 | +2.3% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 151.1 | -25.9% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 106.7 | -21.7% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 102.3 | -1.8% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 114.8 | -8.1% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in Washington | $52,553 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in Washington | $105,105 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in Washington | $157,658 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.