Chicago vs Madrid: Cost of Living, Rent & Purchasing Power Comparison
Comparing Chicago (United States) and Madrid (Spain) reveals a cost-of-living index of 79.6 in Chicago versus 59.5 in Madrid (NYC baseline = 100.0). Overall, Madrid is 25.3% more affordable than Chicago.
| Metrological Indicator | Chicago (United States) | Madrid (Spain) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index (NYC = 100) | 79.6 | 59.5 |
| Rent Index | 57.5 | 35.8 |
| Groceries Index | 82.5 | 50 |
| Restaurant Price Index | 76 | 53.9 |
| Local Purchasing Power Index | 104.1 | 84.1 |
| 1-Bed Apartment in City Center | $2,228 | €1,092 |
| Inexpensive Restaurant Meal | $19.60 | €13.52 |
| Monthly Public Transit Pass | $79.60 | €56.16 |
| Basic Monthly Utilities (85m²) | $170 | €150.80 |
| Safety & Healthcare Score | Safety 44.8/100 · Health 72.4/100 | Safety 70.1/100 · Health 81.2/100 |
Is Chicago more expensive than Madrid?
Chicago has a higher overall cost-of-living index (79.6) compared to Madrid (59.5), representing an index differential of 20.1 points (25.3% difference).
How do apartment rents compare between Chicago and Madrid?
In Chicago, a 1-bedroom city-center apartment averages $2,228/month (Rent Index: 57.5), whereas in Madrid it averages €1,092/month (Rent Index: 35.8).
Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Chicago
The cost of living in Chicago, United States is indexed at 79.6 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a premium-tier expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.
Housing and accommodation in Chicago are defined by a Rent Index of 57.5. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about $2,228 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a very expensive portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.
Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Chicago, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages $19.60, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around $5.30. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately $79.60, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging $170 monthly.
Looking at quality of life metrics, Chicago secures a safety index rating of 44.8/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 71.2/100, healthcare standard scores 72.4/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 90.8 Mbps.
Cost of Living & Real Estate Market in Madrid
The cost of living in Madrid, Spain is indexed at 59.5 points relative to New York City (which acts as the baseline at 100). This rating indicates a moderate expense profile for residents, digital nomads, and expats alike. When factoring in general consumer spending, local taxes, and retail prices, {city} offers a unique economic landscape.
Housing and accommodation in Madrid are defined by a Rent Index of 35.8. A typical one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally commands about €1,092 per month. For long-term stays, housing expenses represent a mid-range portion of an average expat budget, meaning finding affordable housing requires careful planning.
Daily sustenance and lifestyle expenses are key. In Madrid, a basic meal at an inexpensive local restaurant averages €13.52, while a standard cup of coffee is priced around €2.29. Public transit is accessible, with a monthly commuter pass costing approximately €56.16, and basic residential utility bills (electricity, heating, water) averaging €150.80 monthly.
Looking at quality of life metrics, Madrid secures a safety index rating of 70.1/100, which is considered highly secure. The local climate efficiency is rated at 89.2/100, healthcare standard scores 81.2/100, and digital connectivity is supported by average internet download speeds of 94.2 Mbps.