Chicago vs Pittsburgh
Cost of living and salary reality, side by side. At $60-80k, $70,000 in Chicago feels like approximately $46,542 in Pittsburgh.
Data: 2026-Q2 · BLS · HUD · KFFYour $60-80k in Chicago feels like $46,542 in Pittsburgh. Moving would decrease your purchasing power by 34%.
Chicago
Pittsburgh
Your details stay on your device. Sharing generates an image only.
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 Pittsburgh each fit different priorities — the right one depends on what you're building toward.
Related comparisons
Chicago vs Pittsburgh — FAQ
Is it cheaper to live in Chicago or Pittsburgh?
HUD FY2026 1BR Fair Market Rent is $1,581/mo in Chicago and $1,077/mo in Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh has lower median housing costs. Source: HUD FY2026 FMR.
How much do I need to earn in Pittsburgh to match Chicago?
At a $60-80k income, $70,000 in Chicago feels like approximately $46,542 in Pittsburgh — a reduction of about 34% in purchasing power.
What is the state tax difference between Chicago and Pittsburgh?
Chicago is in IL (IL levies income tax) and Pittsburgh is in PA (PA levies 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.