Chicago, Illinois vs. Palo Alto, California

Cost of Living Comparison

The cost of living in Palo Alto, California is 303.0% more expensive than Chicago, Illinois.

You would need a salary of $76,566 in Palo Alto, California to maintain the standard of living you have in Chicago, Illinois.
Comparison highlights
• Overall, Palo Alto, California is more expensive than Chicago, Illinois
• Median Home Cost is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference.
Median Home Cost
993% more expensive in Palo Alto
than in Chicago, Illinois
Chicago, IL vs. Palo Alto, CA
Compared to Chicago, Palo Alto is:
  Homeowner
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
  303.0% higher
      Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes Considered
      No Child Care, Taxes Considered
  Renter
      No Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes not Considered
      Child Care, Taxes Considered
      No Child Care, Taxes Considered
  Food
  28.0% higher
  Housing (Homeowner)
  1,186.8% higher
  Housing (Rent)
  Median Home Cost
  Utilities
  3.1% lower
  Commute
  1.5% higher
  Health
  22.4% higher
  Taxes
  Childcare
  Personal
  1.3% lower