Chicago vs San Antonio
Cost of living and salary reality, side by side. At $60-80k, $70,000 in Chicago feels like approximately $49,010 in San Antonio.
Data: 2026-Q2 · BLS · HUD · KFFYour $60-80k in Chicago feels like $49,010 in San Antonio. Moving would decrease your purchasing power by 30%.
Chicago
San Antonio
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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 San Antonio each fit different priorities — the right one depends on what you're building toward.
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Chicago vs San Antonio — FAQ
Is it cheaper to live in Chicago or San Antonio?
HUD FY2026 1BR Fair Market Rent is $1,581/mo in Chicago and $1,177/mo in San Antonio. San Antonio has lower median housing costs. Source: HUD FY2026 FMR.
How much do I need to earn in San Antonio to match Chicago?
At a $60-80k income, $70,000 in Chicago feels like approximately $49,010 in San Antonio — a reduction of about 30% in purchasing power.
What is the state tax difference between Chicago and San Antonio?
Chicago is in IL (IL levies income tax) and San Antonio is in TX (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.