Salary Comparison
Computer Programmers: Chicago vs Seattle
Side-by-side salary, take-home pay, cost of living, and lifestyle score.
Chicago, IL
$90,470/yr
Seattle, WA
$167,970/yr
Our recommendation: Seattle, WA
Seattle offers $4,254 more per month in disposable income, giving a stronger financial outcome despite comparable pay.
Full Breakdown
Chicago
Seattle
Diff (A−B)
Annual Gross Salary
$90,470
$167,970
$77,500
A vs B
Monthly Take-Home
After estimated federal + state taxes
$5,504
$10,218
$4,714
A vs B
Cost of Living Index
Lower is more affordable. US avg = 100
108
126
-18 pts
A vs B
Monthly Living Costs
Housing, food, transport, utilities, healthcare
$2,910
$3,370
$460
A vs B
Monthly Rent
$1,750
$2,050
$300
A vs B
Monthly Disposable
$2,594
$6,848
$4,254
A vs B
Purchasing Power Score
Take-home ÷ living costs. Higher is better
1.89×
3.03×
-1.14×
A vs B
Lifestyle Score
7/10 (Moderate)
10/10 (Comfortable)
-3
A vs B
Chicago — Full Details
Seattle — Full Details
Salary estimates based on BLS metro data. Cost of living from regional price indices. All figures are estimates; verify with employers before making decisions.