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Cost of Living Comparison
Compare cost of living between cities
Location Comparison
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$
$
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Required Salary
$163,636
In San Francisco
💰
Salary Difference
$63,636
Higher in target city
📈
Cost Difference
+64%
More expensive
📊
Monthly Impact
$5,303
Per month difference
📅
San Francisco is significantly more expensive. You'll need a 64% higher salary to maintain your current lifestyle.
Current City
Chicago
$100,000/year
Target City
San Francisco
$163,636/year
Salary Adjustment
+$63,636
Cost Change
+64%
Cost Comparison by Category
Category Breakdown
| Category | Chicago | San Francisco | Difference | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,000 | $4,240 | +$2,240 | +112% |
| Transportation | $500 | $595 | +$95 | +19% |
| Food | $600 | $780 | +$180 | +30% |
Housing
Current:$2,000
Target:$4,240
Change:+112%
Transportation
Current:$500
Target:$595
Change:+19%
Food
Current:$600
Target:$780
Change:+30%
Annual Budget Comparison
Chicago
Annual Salary:$100,000
Housing (Annual):$24,000
Transport (Annual):$6,000
Food (Annual):$7,200
Total Expenses:$37,200
San Francisco
Required Salary:$163,636
Housing (Annual):$50,880
Transportation (Annual):$7,140
Food (Annual):$9,360
Total Expenses:$67380.00
Understanding Cost of Living
What Affects Cost of Living?
- Housing: Biggest factor (30-50% of budget)
- Transportation: Car vs public transit
- Food: Varies 10-20% by location
- Taxes: State/local income tax differences
- Healthcare: Insurance and care costs
Relocation Considerations
- Compare after-tax income, not just gross salary
- Factor in quality of life improvements
- Consider career growth opportunities
- Account for one-time moving costs
- Research neighborhood-specific costs
Money-Saving Tips for Expensive Cities
- Live outside city center, commute in
- Use public transportation instead of owning a car
- Cook at home, limit dining out
- Share housing costs with roommates
- Take advantage of free city amenities
Cost of Living Index
National Average = 100. Above 100 = more expensive, below 100 = less expensive.
- New York: 187 (87% more expensive than average)
- San Francisco: 180 (80% more expensive)
- Houston: 90 (10% less expensive)
- Chicago: 110 (10% more expensive)