US Chicago — cost of living

What it actually costs to live in Chicago, United States. Monthly rent, utilities, groceries, and transit costs sourced from national statistical offices and municipal data.

Total monthly essentials: approximately €2,630/month for a single person in a 1-bedroom flat (rent + utilities + groceries + transit). Lifestyle and neighbourhood swing this 30–50% either way.

Cost breakdown

Item	Monthly / item cost	Source
1-bedroom flat, city centre	€1,950/mo	Zillow Chicago 1BR avg Q4 2024 ↗
Rent per square metre	€28.00/m²	Zillow Q4 2024 Chicago rental index ↗
Utilities (85m² flat)	€180/mo	ComEd + Peoples Gas + water 2025 ↗
Public transport pass	€75/mo	CTA 30-Day Pass ↗
Groceries, one person	€425/mo	BLS 2025 + Chicago adjustment ↗
Restaurant meal, average	€24	Chicago mid-range dining ↗

Figures reflect the most recent published statistical data; individual experience varies with district and lifestyle.

Visa routes for United States

Relevant residence permits to move to Chicago. Full detail on the United States country brief.

VisaH-1B Specialty OccupationQualified foreign workers in roles requiring a US bachelor's degree or equivalent.VisaO-1 Extraordinary AbilityIndividuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.VisaL-1 Intracompany TransfereeManagers, executives, and specialised-knowledge workers transferred from non-US branches.VisaEB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW)Advanced-degree professionals with work in the US national interest.

Other cities in United States

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