Quick Answer
80,000 is an above-average salary in Chicago, placing you above roughly 66% of earners. After taxes (~23.9% effective rate), your take-home is approximately $5,076/month. A 1-bedroom apartment averages $2,000/month (39% of net income).
Chicago has its own economic dynamics that affect how far your 80k salary will stretch. From rent prices that can consume a third of your income to tax rates that vary dramatically by country, here's everything you need to know about earning 80k in Chicago.
Chicago (pop. 2.7 million) is moderately expensive compared to global metros, with a cost of living index of 78 (NYC = 100). Average 1-bedroom rent is $2,000/month and a monthly transit pass costs $110. It's considered a strong tech market with a tech score of 7/10.
To truly evaluate 80k in Chicago, you need to think in terms of purchasing power rather than raw numbers. Purchasing power adjusts for local prices—a salary that buys a comfortable life in one city might only cover basics in another. International indices like the Big Mac Index or the Numbeo cost-of-living index help contextualize what 80k really means in Chicago.
Employer benefits in Chicago can significantly alter the effective value of 80k. Stock options, pension contributions, meal subsidies, gym memberships, and transport allowances vary widely between companies and countries. A slightly lower base salary with strong benefits can be worth more than a higher base with minimal extras.
The stability and predictability of income at 80k in Chicago also matters. Salaried roles provide consistency, while roles with significant variable compensation (commissions, bonuses) introduce uncertainty. Understanding how much of your target income is guaranteed versus performance-dependent shapes your financial planning.
Weather and seasonal factors might seem unrelated to salary, but they affect spending patterns in Chicago. Cities with harsh winters require heating budgets and warmer wardrobes; tropical cities may have higher air conditioning costs. These climate-related expenses add up and should feature in your 80k budget planning.
Lastly, consider the "exit value" of working in Chicago at 80k. Does experience in this market command a premium if you later relocate? Professionals who've worked in major financial or tech centers often find their experience valued higher when moving to lower-cost markets, effectively converting their time in Chicago into future earning power.
Is 80k a good salary in Chicago in 2026?
80k is an above-average salary, placing you above roughly 66% of earners in Chicago. The local median salary is $65,000, so earning $80,000 puts you at the 66th percentile. After accounting for housing (average $2,000/month for a 1-bedroom), taxes, and daily costs, this salary allows for meaningful monthly savings.
How much tax will I pay on 80k in Chicago?
On a gross salary of $80,000 in United States, you can expect an effective tax rate of approximately 23.9%. This means roughly $19,088 per year goes to taxes, leaving you with a net income of about $60,912 per year ($5,076 per month). The exact amount may vary based on deductions, filing status, and local levies.
What is the average rent in Chicago in 2026?
As of 2026, the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in central Chicago is approximately $2,000 per month, while a 2-bedroom averages around $2,800 per month. On a 80k salary, a 1-bedroom rent would consume about 39% of your after-tax income, which is a significant portion of income.
How does 80k in Chicago compare to other cities?
Purchasing power varies by city, so 80k in Chicago is not equivalent elsewhere. Adjusted for cost of living, the same standard of living would require approximately: New York ($102,400), London ($87,179), San Francisco ($107,692). Chicago has a purchasing power index of 92 (NYC = 100), meaning your money goes somewhat less far than in New York.
What is the cost of living in Chicago in 2026?
Chicago has a cost of living index of 78 (where New York = 100), making it a moderately expensive city. Key monthly costs include: rent ($2,000 for 1BR), groceries (~$369), transport ($110), and utilities (~$117). Total monthly expenses for a single professional average around $2,791 before discretionary spending.
Can I save money on 80k in Chicago?
On 80k in Chicago, your estimated monthly take-home pay is $5,076 after taxes. With typical expenses of $2,791/month (rent, groceries, transport, utilities, and leisure), you could potentially save around $2,285 per month ($27,420/year). This provides solid room for building an emergency fund and investing.
Last updated: 2026-02-19 | Data sources: Numbeo, OECD, Glassdoor, and local government statistics.
Disclaimer: This page uses market data and cost-of-living sources for guidance. All figures and advice are estimates, not guarantees. Local conditions and personal circumstances may vary.
