2025 Compare Cities Cost of Living:
Chicago, IL vs Smith River, CA

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Highlights
Is it cheaper to live in Smith River or is it cheaper to live in Chicago?
- Smith River is 11.7% less expensive than Chicago.

Which city has more affordable housing, Smith River or Chicago?
- Smith River housing costs are 22.0% more expensive than Chicago housing costs.

Is Health Care more affordable in Chicago or is Health Care more affordable in Smith River.
- Health related expenses are 35.3% more in Smith River.
 Chicago, ILSmith River, CAUnited States
 Overall  Unlock93.3100
 Food & Groceries97.2  Unlock100
 Health  Unlock119.1100
 Housing99.8  Unlock100
 Median Home Cost  Unlock$387,200$338,100
 Utilities93  Unlock100
 Transportation  Unlock75.4100
 Miscellaneous139.8  Unlock100
100 = National Average (Below 100 means cheaper than the US average. Above 100 means more expensive.)
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Reviews for Chicago    270 Reviews

I've lived in Chicago city and later moved to suburbs when family size increased. Absolutely love this city. This is the cleanest and most beautiful among the major  More

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Chicago is probably the best value in a major city that you can find and my personal favorite city. It will become increasingly important as climate change makes the  More

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I've live on north side and south side, UIC medical center. Don't move here go to the north side. No good amenities, if you get bored with one there is no other choices.  More

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Reviews for Smith River    1 Reviews

Over 13 years ago

Drove into 'metro' Smith River four days ago and the population sign said 2021! Way different number than 866? When did Sperling's Best Places get the  More

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