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Gary vs Chicago

United States vs United States · 39 km apart

Gary

United States

$1,246

single / month

Cheaper overall
VS

Chicago

United States

$1,635

single / month

Category Breakdown (USD)

ExpenseGaryChicagoCheaper
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant$11.25$14.40Gary
Three-course meal for two, mid-range$45.00$57.60Gary
Cappuccino$3.38$4.32Gary
Monthly groceries (single person)$255$326Gary
Monthly public transport pass$41.25$52.80Gary
Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment$109$139Gary
Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited)$31.50$40.32Gary
Fitness club membership$31.50$40.32Gary
Cinema ticket$8.25$10.56Gary
One-bedroom apartment in city centre$713$971Gary
One-bedroom apartment outside centre$496$675Gary
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre$1,488$2,026Gary
Total single-person budget$1,246$1,635Gary
Average net salary$3,900$4,992

Verdict

Gary is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in Gary runs about $1,246 versus $1,635 in Chicago — a difference of roughly 31%.

Salary-adjusted, Chicago leaves more disposable income after basic expenses. Both figures are model estimates — see each city page for local-currency detail.

Full cost of living in Gary  ·  Full cost of living in Chicago

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gary cheaper than Chicago?
Yes. A single person spends an estimated $1,246 per month in Gary versus $1,635 in Chicago — about 31% less.
How far is Gary from Chicago?
The straight-line distance between Gary and Chicago is approximately 39 km (24 miles).
Which city has better salaries, Gary or Chicago?
The estimated average net salary is $3,900 in Gary and $4,992 in Chicago. After living costs, a single person keeps roughly $2,654 in Gary versus $3,357 in Chicago per month.