Moving to Chicago, IL

Thinking about moving to Chicago, IL? Here's the practical picture: the cost of living runs at an index of 106 (100 is the national average), a typical two-bedroom rents for about $2,050/month, summers average 59°F, and Illinois has a top income tax rate of 4.95%. Below: cost of living, climate, utilities, the best time to move, and popular routes into Chicago.

Cost of living
106
Typical 2BR rent
$2,050/mo
Avg summer high
59°F
Avg winter low
42°F

Cost of living in Chicago

Chicago's cost-of-living index is 106 against a national baseline of 100, and a two-bedroom rental averages roughly $2,050 per month. Illinois levies a top income tax rate of 4.95% and an average combined sales tax of 8.86%. Build your first-year budget around these figures, not just the cost of the move.

Climate and best time to move

Expect average summer highs near 59°F, winter lows around 42°F, and about 38 inches of precipitation a year in Chicago. Late September through April — outside the May-September peak season, when van-line capacity is tighter and rates run roughly 15-18% higher. Weather is moderate most of the year; any off-peak month works well.

Setting up utilities in Chicago

Line up your utilities before move day. In the Chicago–Naperville area that typically means ComEd, Peoples Gas, City of Chicago Water. Schedule electricity and gas to turn on the day before you arrive so you never walk into a dark home.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Chicago expensive to live in?
Chicago has a cost-of-living index of 106 (100 = US average), with typical 2BR rent around $2,050/month.
What's the weather like in Chicago?
Summer highs average 59°F, winter lows about 42°F, with roughly 38 inches of annual precipitation.
When is the best time to move to Chicago?
Late September through April — outside the May-September peak season, when van-line capacity is tighter and rates run roughly 15-18% higher.

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Sources

  • MERIC / BestPlaces metro cost index, 2025 — retrieved 2026-01-15
  • Zillow Observed Rent Index (metro), 2025 — retrieved 2026-01-15
  • NOAA 1991-2020 Climate Normals — retrieved 2026-01-15
  • Tax Foundation, 2025 State Tax Data — retrieved 2026-01-15