Moving from Chicago to Toledo (2026)

Toledo has a COL index of 81 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). You'd pay about 24% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$940/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
10781
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,050
per month
State tax
4.9%3.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,434$4,522
per month

Salary needed in Toledo to match your Chicago lifestyle

Based on the 24% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in ChicagoEquivalent in Toledo
$40K$30,280
$50K$37,850
$60K$45,421
$75K$56,776
$80K$60,561
$100K$75,701
$120K$90,841
$150K$113,551

Monthly budget at $75K — Chicago vs Toledo

ExpenseChicagoToledo
Monthly take-home$4,434$4,522
1BR rent$1,900$1,050
Groceries$388$357
Transport$105$58
Utilities$165$160
Internet$65$58
Left after essentials$1,811$2,839

Frequently asked questions

Is Toledo cheaper than Chicago?

Yes. Toledo has a cost of living index of 81 vs 107 for Chicago (100 = US average). That's about 24% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Chicago to Toledo?

On a $75K salary, moving from Chicago to Toledo could save roughly $940/month on core expenses. That's ~$11,280/year.

What salary do I need in Toledo to match my Chicago lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Chicago, you'd need roughly $56,776/year in Toledo. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.

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