Moving from Chicago to Midland (2026)
Midland has a COL index of 93 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). You'd pay about 13% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$780/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10793
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,200
per month
State tax
4.9%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,434$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Midland to match your Chicago lifestyle
Based on the 13% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Chicago | Equivalent in Midland |
|---|---|
| $40K | $34,766 |
| $50K | $43,458 |
| $60K | $52,150 |
| $75K | $65,187 |
| $80K | $69,533 |
| $100K | $86,916 |
| $120K | $104,299 |
| $150K | $130,374 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Chicago vs Midland
| Expense | Chicago | Midland |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,434 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,200 |
| Groceries | $388 | $365 |
| Transport | $105 | $35 |
| Utilities | $165 | $178 |
| Internet | $65 | $65 |
| Left after essentials | $1,811 | $2,898 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Midland cheaper than Chicago?
Yes. Midland has a cost of living index of 93 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). That's about 13% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Chicago to Midland?
On a $75K salary, moving from Chicago to Midland could save roughly $780/month on core expenses. That's ~$9,360/year.
What salary do I need in Midland to match my Chicago lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Chicago, you'd need roughly $65,187/year in Midland. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Midland to ChicagoChicago vs Midland — full comparisonChicago cost of livingMidland 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