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Cost of Living: Chicago, IL vs Minneapolis, MN

A data-driven comparison of housing, groceries, transportation, taxes, job market and more. See which city gives you more for your money.

2.8% Minneapolis, MN is cheaper overall
2.9% 2.9% more expensive housing
2.9% 2.9% cheaper groceries
Updated April 2026 · Data: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau National average = 100

At a Glance

🏠 Housing 2.9% more
Chicago
105
Minneapolis
108
🛒 Groceries 2.9% cheaper
Chicago
104
Minneapolis
101
🚗 Transportation 7.0% cheaper
Chicago
114
Minneapolis
106
🏥 Healthcare 2.9% cheaper
Chicago
103
Minneapolis
100
⚡ Utilities 5.9% cheaper
Chicago
101
Minneapolis
95

Detailed Breakdown

Category Chicago, IL Minneapolis, MN Difference
Overall Cost Index1071042.8% less
Housing1051082.9% more
Median 1BR Rent$1,700$1,35020.6% less
Median Home Price$310,000$330,0006.5% more
Groceries1041012.9% less
Transportation1141067.0% less
Healthcare1031002.9% less
Utilities101955.9% less

Tax Comparison

Tax Type Chicago, IL Minneapolis, MN
State Income Tax4.95%9.85% (top)
State Sales Tax6.25%6.88%
Avg Property Tax Rate1.95%1.02%
Estate / Inheritance TaxYesYes

What You'd Need to Earn

Chicago, IL
$74,000
Median household income
Minneapolis, MN
$76,000
Median household income
✅ Good news: Income in Minneapolis outpaces the cost difference, so your purchasing power should hold up.

Salary Equivalent Calculator

Find out what you'd need to earn in Minneapolis to maintain your Chicago lifestyle.

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Based on overall cost index: Chicago (107) vs Minneapolis (104). This is an estimate for comparison purposes.

Job Market Snapshot

Unemployment Rate
Chicago4.8%
Minneapolis3.2%
Job Growth (YoY)
Chicago2.1%
Minneapolis2.5%
Top Industries
ChicagoFinance, Manufacturing, Healthcare
MinneapolisHealthcare, Finance, Retail

Quality of Life

Avg Commute
Chicago35 min
Minneapolis25 min
Walk Score
Chicago78
Minneapolis69
Air Quality (AQI)
Chicago44
Minneapolis36
Avg Temperature
Chicago50°F
Minneapolis45°F
Population
Chicago2,665,039
Minneapolis425,336

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Planning Your Move?

Here are some helpful resources if you're considering relocating.

🏠 Find ApartmentsBrowse rentals in Chicago and Minneapolis → 🚚 Get Moving QuotesCompare prices from top movers → 📈 Check Home ValuesSee real estate trends in both cities → 💼 Search JobsFind open positions in Minneapolis →

Compare Other Cities

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chicago or Minneapolis cheaper to live in?+
Minneapolis is the more affordable option overall. The biggest difference is in housing costs, where the gap is about 2.9%. Day-to-day expenses like groceries and transportation are closer between the two cities.
How much is rent in Chicago vs Minneapolis?+
A typical one-bedroom apartment costs around $1,700/month in Chicago and $1,350/month in Minneapolis — a difference of about $350 per month.
Which city has lower taxes, Chicago or Minneapolis?+
Illinois has a state income tax of 4.95% and sales tax of 6.25%. Minnesota has a state income tax of 9.85% (top) and sales tax of 6.88%. Consider all tax types together when evaluating total tax burden, as states with no income tax often compensate with higher sales or property taxes.
Can I afford to move from Chicago to Minneapolis?+
Median household income in Chicago is $74,000 compared to $76,000 in Minneapolis. Use the salary calculator above to see what you'd need to earn to maintain your current standard of living.
What about buying a home in Chicago vs Minneapolis?+
The median home price in Chicago is $310,000 versus $330,000 in Minneapolis — a difference of $20,000. Property tax rates also differ: Illinois averages 1.95% while Minnesota averages 1.02%.