Chicago vs San Diego
Side-by-side rent vs buy analysis comparing these two markets
Overall Comparison
Chicago has an edge
Chicago edges ahead based on overall market conditions.
Median Home PriceBETTER
$465,000
Median RentBETTER
$2,200/mo
Price-to-Rent RatioBETTER
17.6
Property Tax Rate
2.27%
Price Change (1Y)
+2.8%
Price Change (5Y)
+13.0%
Break-Even YearsBETTER
7 years
10-Year Wealth DifferenceBETTER
+$20,000
Median Home Price
$840,000
Median Rent
$2,900/mo
Price-to-Rent Ratio
24.1
Property Tax RateBETTER
0.73%
Price Change (1Y)BETTER
+4.3%
Price Change (5Y)BETTER
+34.0%
Break-Even Years
10 years
10-Year Wealth Difference
$40,000
Key Differences
Home Prices
Chicago's median home price of $465,000 is lower than San Diego's $840,000 by 45%.
Monthly Rent
Renting in Chicago costs $2,200/mo compared to $2,900/mo in San Diego—a difference of $700/mo.
Buy vs Rent Verdict
Chicago favors either option, while San Diego favors renting.
Break-Even Timeline
Buying breaks even in 7 years in Chicago vs 10 years in San Diego.
Run Your Own Numbers
This comparison uses median values. Your income, savings, and goals matter. Use our Buy vs Rent calculator to get a personalized analysis.