Moving from St. George to Chicago (2026)

Chicago has a COL index of 107 vs 96 for St. George (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 11% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$700 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
96107
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300$1,900
per month
State tax
4.7%4.9%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,447$4,434
per month

Salary needed in Chicago to match your St. George lifestyle

Based on the 11% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in St. GeorgeEquivalent in Chicago
$40K$44,583
$50K$55,729
$60K$66,875
$75K$83,594
$80K$89,167
$100K$111,458
$120K$133,750
$150K$167,188

Monthly budget at $75K — St. George vs Chicago

ExpenseSt. GeorgeChicago
Monthly take-home$4,447$4,434
1BR rent$1,300$1,900
Groceries$372$388
Transport$40$105
Utilities$148$165
Internet$63$65
Left after essentials$2,524$1,811

Frequently asked questions

Is Chicago cheaper than St. George?

No. Chicago has a cost of living index of 107 vs 96 for St. George (100 = US average). That's about 11% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from St. George to Chicago?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Chicago run about $700/month more than St. George. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Chicago to match my St. George lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in St. George, you'd need roughly $83,594/year in Chicago. 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