Is Chicago or Perth cheaper to live in?

Perth is 21% cheaper than Chicago. The average monthly cost in Perth is $2,603, while Chicago costs $3,310 per month.

Which city is better for digital nomads: Chicago or Perth?

For digital nomads, Chicago offers faster internet at 220 Mbps. Perth is more budget-friendly with lower living costs. Both cities have their strengths - Chicago has a NomadIQ score of 4.8/10 while Perth scores 5.7/10.

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Perth?

A 1-bedroom apartment costs $2,471/month in Chicago and $1,772/month in Perth. Perth has 28% lower rent.

Is Chicago or Perth safer?

Perth has a higher safety score of 5.8/10. Chicago scores 3.4/10 for safety while Perth scores 5.8/10.

Should I move to Chicago or Perth as an expat?

The choice depends on your priorities. Choose Perth if budget is important ($2,603/month). Choose Perth for better safety. Chicago is better for remote work with 220 Mbps internet.

Back to Comparison Tool

Chicago vs Perth

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Chicago

United States

$3,310/mo4.8/10

Perth

Australia

$2,603/mo5.7/10

Chicago

United States

$3,310/moNomadIQ 4.8/10

Perth

Australia

$2,603/moNomadIQ 5.7/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor

Chicago

Perth

Winner

Total Monthly Cost

$3,310

$2,603

Perth

Rent (1BR)

$2,471

$1,772

Perth

Groceries

$430

$363

Perth

Transport

$120

$156

Chicago

Healthcare

$220

$250

Chicago

Safety Score

3.4/10

5.8/10

Perth

Internet Speed

220 Mbps

200 Mbps

Chicago

NomadIQ Score

4.8/10

5.7/10

Perth

Overall Winner: Perth

Based on our comparison, Perth wins 5 out of 8 categories.Chicago wins 3 categories.

Which city is better for digital nomads?

For digital nomads choosing between Chicago and Perth, the answer depends on your priorities. Here's our analysis:

Best for Budget

Perth

$2,603/mo

Best Internet

Chicago

220 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Perth

5.7/10

Our Recommendation: Perth is the clear winner for digital nomads, offering both affordability and excellent nomad infrastructure.

Digital Nomad Analysis: Chicago vs Perth

When comparing Chicago and Perth for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Perth is the more budget-friendly option at $2,603/month versus Chicago's $3,310/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Chicago leads with 220 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Perth offers 200 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 5.8/10, Perth offers better security than Chicago (3.4/10).

Overall: Perth's NomadIQ score of 5.7/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.

Cost of Living Comparison

Perth is 21% cheaper than Chicago.

• Chicago rent: $2,471/mo
• Perth rent: $1,772/mo
• Difference: $699/mo

Safety Comparison

Perth has a higher safety score (5.8/10) compared to Chicago (3.4/10).

3.4/10

Chicago

5.8/10

Perth

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Chicago offers faster internet at 220 Mbps vs 200 Mbps.

220 Mbps

Chicago

200 Mbps

Perth

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Based on our analysis, Perth edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 5 of 8 comparison factors.

Chicago: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Perth: Best for budget-conscious expats

Chicago vs Perth

Chicago

Perth

Chicago

Perth

Detailed Comparison

Overall Winner: Perth

Which city is better for digital nomads?

Digital Nomad Analysis: Chicago vs Perth

Cost of Living Comparison

Safety Comparison

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Which City Is Better for Expats?

More City Comparisons

Explore More

Frequently Asked Questions: Chicago vs Perth