Moving from Chicago to Laredo (2026)
Laredo has a COL index of 79 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). You'd pay about 26% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,074/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10779
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$950
per month
State tax
4.9%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,434$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Laredo to match your Chicago lifestyle
Based on the 26% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Chicago | Equivalent in Laredo |
|---|---|
| $40K | $29,533 |
| $50K | $36,916 |
| $60K | $44,299 |
| $75K | $55,374 |
| $80K | $59,065 |
| $100K | $73,832 |
| $120K | $88,598 |
| $150K | $110,748 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Chicago vs Laredo
| Expense | Chicago | Laredo |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,434 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $950 |
| Groceries | $388 | $338 |
| Transport | $105 | $35 |
| Utilities | $165 | $168 |
| Internet | $65 | $58 |
| Left after essentials | $1,811 | $3,192 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Laredo cheaper than Chicago?
Yes. Laredo has a cost of living index of 79 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). That's about 26% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Chicago to Laredo?
On a $75K salary, moving from Chicago to Laredo could save roughly $1,074/month on core expenses. That's ~$12,888/year.
What salary do I need in Laredo to match my Chicago lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Chicago, you'd need roughly $55,374/year in Laredo. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Laredo to ChicagoChicago vs Laredo — full comparisonChicago cost of livingLaredo 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