Chicago vs Seattle
Cost of living and salary reality, side by side. At $60-80k, $70,000 in Chicago feels like approximately $89,359 in Seattle.
Data: 2026-Q2 · BLS · HUD · KFFYour $60-80k in Chicago feels like $89,359 in Seattle. Moving would increase your purchasing power by 28%.
Chicago
Seattle
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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 Seattle each fit different priorities — the right one depends on what you're building toward.
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Chicago vs Seattle — FAQ
Is it cheaper to live in Chicago or Seattle?
HUD FY2026 1BR Fair Market Rent is $1,581/mo in Chicago and $2,146/mo in Seattle. Chicago has lower median housing costs. Source: HUD FY2026 FMR.
How much do I need to earn in Seattle to match Chicago?
At a $60-80k income, $70,000 in Chicago feels like approximately $89,359 in Seattle — a gain of about 28% in purchasing power.
What is the state tax difference between Chicago and Seattle?
Chicago is in IL (IL levies income tax) and Seattle is in WA (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.