Can I Afford to Live in New Orleans vs Chicago on $120K?
Here's how a $120K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.
Monthly budget breakdown
| Expense | New Orleans LA | Chicago IL |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home (est.) | $6,725 | $6,665 |
| 1BR rent | $1,400 | $1,900 |
| Groceries (est.) | $372 | $388 |
| Transport (est.) | $55 | $105 |
| Utilities | $185 | $165 |
| Internet | $60 | $65 |
| Left after essentials | $4,653/month | $4,042/month |
Frequently asked questions
Is $120K a good salary in New Orleans?
At $120K/year in New Orleans, your estimated monthly take-home is $6,725. With 1BR rent around $1,400/month, rent takes up 21% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.
Is $120K a good salary in Chicago?
At $120K/year in Chicago, your estimated monthly take-home is $6,665. With 1BR rent around $1,900/month, rent takes up 29% of your take-home. That's considered manageable.
Which city is more affordable on a $120K salary?
New Orleans leaves you with more money after core expenses — $4,653/month vs $4,042/month in Chicago.
Can I afford to live alone in New Orleans on $120K?
Yes. At $120K in New Orleans, rent takes 21% of your take-home, leaving $4,653/month after essentials. Most financial planners recommend keeping rent below 30%.
See the full cost-of-living comparison
Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.
Take-home estimates use simplified federal/state brackets and do not account for pre-tax deductions, 401(k), or local taxes. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo · Q1 2026 · For general guidance only