Moving from Chicago to Syracuse (2026)
Syracuse has a COL index of 88 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). You'd pay about 18% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$739/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10788
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,200
per month
State tax
4.9%6.9%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,434$4,309
per month
Salary needed in Syracuse to match your Chicago lifestyle
Based on the 18% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Chicago | Equivalent in Syracuse |
|---|---|
| $40K | $32,897 |
| $50K | $41,121 |
| $60K | $49,346 |
| $75K | $61,682 |
| $80K | $65,794 |
| $100K | $82,243 |
| $120K | $98,692 |
| $150K | $123,364 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Chicago vs Syracuse
| Expense | Chicago | Syracuse |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,434 | $4,309 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,200 |
| Groceries | $388 | $376 |
| Transport | $105 | $65 |
| Utilities | $165 | $180 |
| Internet | $65 | $63 |
| Left after essentials | $1,811 | $2,425 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Syracuse cheaper than Chicago?
Yes. Syracuse has a cost of living index of 88 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). That's about 18% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Chicago to Syracuse?
On a $75K salary, moving from Chicago to Syracuse could save roughly $739/month on core expenses. That's ~$8,868/year.
What salary do I need in Syracuse to match my Chicago lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Chicago, you'd need roughly $61,682/year in Syracuse. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Syracuse to ChicagoChicago vs Syracuse — full comparisonChicago cost of livingSyracuse 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