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South Bend vs Chicago

United States vs United States · 119 km apart

South Bend

United States

$1,328

single / month

Cheaper overall
VS

Chicago

United States

$1,635

single / month

Category Breakdown (USD)

ExpenseSouth BendChicagoCheaper
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant$11.93$14.40South Bend
Three-course meal for two, mid-range$47.70$57.60South Bend
Cappuccino$3.58$4.32South Bend
Monthly groceries (single person)$270$326South Bend
Monthly public transport pass$43.73$52.80South Bend
Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment$115$139South Bend
Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited)$33.39$40.32South Bend
Fitness club membership$33.39$40.32South Bend
Cinema ticket$8.75$10.56South Bend
One-bedroom apartment in city centre$767$971South Bend
One-bedroom apartment outside centre$533$675South Bend
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre$1,600$2,026South Bend
Total single-person budget$1,328$1,635South Bend
Average net salary$4,134$4,992

Verdict

South Bend is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in South Bend runs about $1,328 versus $1,635 in Chicago — a difference of roughly 23%.

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 South Bend  ·  Full cost of living in Chicago

Frequently Asked Questions

Is South Bend cheaper than Chicago?
Yes. A single person spends an estimated $1,328 per month in South Bend versus $1,635 in Chicago — about 23% less.
How far is South Bend from Chicago?
The straight-line distance between South Bend and Chicago is approximately 119 km (74 miles).
Which city has better salaries, South Bend or Chicago?
The estimated average net salary is $4,134 in South Bend and $4,992 in Chicago. After living costs, a single person keeps roughly $2,806 in South Bend versus $3,357 in Chicago per month.