Cost of living · Chicago, IL · 2026
What salary do you need to live in Chicago, IL?
What salary do you need to live in Chicago, IL?
To cover the essentials living alone in Chicago, IL — about $2,770 a month — you need to earn roughly $41,000 a year before tax (accounting for IL state tax). To live comfortably, with money left for savings, closer to $57,000. Rent alone is $1,900 a month.
Verified 12 August 2026
To get by $41,000 Covers rent and essentials with little spare
To be comfortable $57,000 Essentials plus room to save and enjoy the city
What it costs to live in Chicago, IL
| Monthly cost | |
|---|---|
| Rent (one-bed) | $1,900 |
| Utilities | $165 |
| Transport | $105 |
| Food | $470 |
| Health | $130 |
| Total | $2,770 |
On the $41,000 "get by" salary, your take-home is about $2,758 a month — just covering the $2,770 of essentials.
Roommates change everything. Splitting rent and utilities can cut the salary you need by tens of thousands. Run your own numbers →