Chicago vs Jacksonville
Cost of living and salary reality, side by side. At $60-80k, $70,000 in Chicago feels like approximately $57,546 in Jacksonville.
Data: 2026-Q2 · BLS · HUD · KFFYour $60-80k in Chicago feels like $57,546 in Jacksonville. Moving would decrease your purchasing power by 18%.
Chicago
Jacksonville
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Curious what a raise — or a different path — would change?
At $60-80k in Chicago, your picture shifts from comfortable toward comfortable.
No city is objectively better. Chicago and Jacksonville each fit different priorities — the right one depends on what you're building toward.
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Chicago vs Jacksonville — FAQ
Is it cheaper to live in Chicago or Jacksonville?
HUD FY2026 1BR Fair Market Rent is $1,581/mo in Chicago and $1,382/mo in Jacksonville. Jacksonville has lower median housing costs. Source: HUD FY2026 FMR.
How much do I need to earn in Jacksonville to match Chicago?
At a $60-80k income, $70,000 in Chicago feels like approximately $57,546 in Jacksonville — a reduction of about 18% in purchasing power.
What is the state tax difference between Chicago and Jacksonville?
Chicago is in IL (IL levies income tax) and Jacksonville is in FL (no state income tax). Source: Tax Foundation 2025.
Which city has more breathing room?
Breathing room depends on your income and housing situation. Use the interactive comparison above to see how each city's picture changes across income bands.