Moving from Tampa to Chicago (2026)
Chicago has a COL index of 107 vs 104 for Tampa (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 3% more for the same lifestyle.
Pay ~$78 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
104107
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,000$1,900
per month
State tax
None4.9%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,434
per month
Salary needed in Chicago to match your Tampa lifestyle
Based on the 3% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in Tampa | Equivalent in Chicago |
|---|---|
| $40K | $41,154 |
| $50K | $51,442 |
| $60K | $61,731 |
| $75K | $77,163 |
| $80K | $82,308 |
| $100K | $102,885 |
| $120K | $123,462 |
| $150K | $154,327 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Tampa vs Chicago
| Expense | Tampa | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,434 |
| 1BR rent | $2,000 | $1,900 |
| Groceries | $376 | $388 |
| Transport | $65 | $105 |
| Utilities | $195 | $165 |
| Internet | $65 | $65 |
| Left after essentials | $2,040 | $1,811 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Chicago cheaper than Tampa?
No. Chicago has a cost of living index of 107 vs 104 for Tampa (100 = US average). That's about 3% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from Tampa to Chicago?
On a $75K salary, moving from Tampa to Chicago could save roughly $78/month on core expenses. That's ~$936/year.
What salary do I need in Chicago to match my Tampa lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tampa, you'd need roughly $77,163/year in Chicago. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Chicago to TampaTampa vs Chicago — full comparisonTampa cost of livingChicago 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