Oak Park, IL vs. Chicago, IL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Imagine two families, the Oaks and the Windy’s, both looking to relocate within Illinois. The Oaks are considering a charming 2-bedroom apartment in suburban Oak Park for $1,800 per month. Meanwhile, the Windy’s have their eye on a similar unit in Chicago proper for $2,200 monthly. After factoring in groceries, the Oaks expect to spend around $500 per month, while the Windy’s budget closer to $600 for their city lifestyle. So which location – Oak Park or Chicago – offers the better value in 2025? This cost of living comparison will help you decide.
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in the cost of living in Oak Park vs Chicago. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare:
| Housing Type | Oak Park | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,800 | $2,200 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $450,000 | $550,000 |
🏆 Winner: Oak Park
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly comparable between Oak Park and Chicago. The average household in either city can expect monthly bills around:
- Electricity: $120
- Natural Gas: $80 in winter, $30 in summer
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $60
- Internet: $50
🏆 Winner: Tie
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs tend to be about 15-20% higher in Chicago compared to Oak Park, due to factors like rent and competition. A typical family might spend $500 per month on groceries in Oak Park, versus $600+ in Chicago.
Dining out is also pricier in the city. Expect to pay $15-20 per person for a casual meal in Oak Park, but closer to $20-30 in many Chicago neighborhoods.
🏆 Winner: Oak Park
Taxes and Fees
Illinois charges a flat income tax rate of 4.95%. However, sales tax is higher in Chicago (10.25%) than in Oak Park (9.75%). Property taxes are also steeper in Oak Park, averaging 2.2% vs. 1.9% in Chicago.
🏆 Winner: Chicago
Cost Summary
| Category | Oak Park | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $1,800 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $310 | $310 |
| Groceries | $500 | $600 |
| Transportation | $100 | $150 |
| Taxes (% of Home Value) | 2.2% | 1.9% |
| Misc | $200 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,910 | $3,510 |
Lifestyle Fit
Oak Park offers more space for your money, with larger apartments and homes than you’ll find in Chicago proper. It’s a walkable suburb with good schools and a quieter vibe. The commute to downtown Chicago averages 30 minutes on the L.
Chicago itself is a bustling city with world-class amenities, nightlife, and job opportunities. It’s pricier and more crowded than Oak Park, but offers unbeatable access to the Loop. Chicago’s winters are also a few degrees milder than in Oak Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Oak Park more affordable than Chicago?
Yes, the cost of living in Oak Park is generally 15-20% lower than in Chicago, mainly due to cheaper housing. - Which city has lower rent?
Oak Park has lower rent, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $1,800 vs. $2,200 in Chicago. - Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
The median home price in Oak Park is about $450,000, while Chicago homes average $550,000 in 2025.
Conclusion
Overall, Oak Park offers a lower cost of living than Chicago, especially for housing and groceries. It’s ideal for families or those who prefer a suburban lifestyle with more space. However, Chicago’s dynamism and opportunities may be worth the premium for some.
Budgeting is key in either location. Check out our guides on affording Oak Park or Oak Park’s full cost of living breakdown to learn more. The right choice depends on your income, lifestyle, and priorities.