Salary Comparison
Computer Programmers: Chicago vs Tacoma
Side-by-side salary, take-home pay, cost of living, and lifestyle score.
Chicago, IL
$90,470/yr
Tacoma, WA
$167,970/yr
Our recommendation: Tacoma, WA
Tacoma offers $4,854 more per month in disposable income, giving a stronger financial outcome despite comparable pay.
Full Breakdown
Chicago
Tacoma
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
103
+5 pts
A vs B
Monthly Living Costs
Housing, food, transport, utilities, healthcare
$2,910
$2,770
+$140
A vs B
Monthly Rent
$1,750
$1,620
+$130
A vs B
Monthly Disposable
$2,594
$7,448
$4,854
A vs B
Purchasing Power Score
Take-home ÷ living costs. Higher is better
1.89×
3.69×
-1.80×
A vs B
Lifestyle Score
7/10 (Moderate)
10/10 (Comfortable)
-3
A vs B
Chicago — 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.