Moving from Chicago to Fresno (2026)
Fresno has a COL index of 99 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). You'd pay about 7% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$514/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10799
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,450
per month
State tax
4.9%9.3%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,434$4,159
per month
Salary needed in Fresno to match your Chicago lifestyle
Based on the 7% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Chicago | Equivalent in Fresno |
|---|---|
| $40K | $37,009 |
| $50K | $46,262 |
| $60K | $55,514 |
| $75K | $69,393 |
| $80K | $74,019 |
| $100K | $92,523 |
| $120K | $111,028 |
| $150K | $138,785 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Chicago vs Fresno
| Expense | Chicago | Fresno |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,434 | $4,159 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,450 |
| Groceries | $388 | $380 |
| Transport | $105 | $72 |
| Utilities | $165 | $142 |
| Internet | $65 | $65 |
| Left after essentials | $1,811 | $2,050 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Fresno cheaper than Chicago?
Yes. Fresno has a cost of living index of 99 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). That's about 7% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Chicago to Fresno?
On a $75K salary, moving from Chicago to Fresno could save roughly $514/month on core expenses. That's ~$6,168/year.
What salary do I need in Fresno to match my Chicago lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Chicago, you'd need roughly $69,393/year in Fresno. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Fresno to ChicagoChicago vs Fresno — full comparisonChicago cost of livingFresno cost of living
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only