WhereCanIAffordTake-home › Dallas, TX vs Chicago, IL

Dallas, TX vs Chicago, IL: cost of living on $120,000

Dallas, TX +$5,299/yr On $120,000, Dallas, TX leaves $72,079/yr in pocket vs Chicago, IL's $66,780 — after state income tax and housing.

Where the money goes

On $120,000Dallas, TXChicago, IL
Federal + FICA (est.)$29,580$29,580
State income tax$0 (0%)$5,940 (4.95%)
After-tax income$90,420$84,480
− Housing/yr (Zillow)$18,341$17,700
Real money in pocket$72,079$66,780

· State tax: Tax Foundation, “State Individual Income Tax Rates and Brackets, 2025” + state revenue departments. Modeled as an effective planning rate for a typical $80k–$160k filer — not a full bracket engine. · Housing from Zillow ZHVI 2026-05.

Talk to a local agent →Moving supplies →

FAQ

Is Dallas, TX or Chicago, IL cheaper?
On $120,000, Dallas, TX — by $5,299/yr in real take-home.
What's the biggest driver?
State income tax (Texas 0% vs Illinois 4.95%) and housing cost.

See also: FIRE in Dallas, TX · salary to buy in Dallas, TX · compare other cities →

🏠 Where can I afford a house?
Your salary → every metro you can buy in.
🔥 FIRE by town
Your portfolio → which towns retire you today.
🧭 Best town for me
Budget + climate + politics → your ranked towns.
💵 Take-home comparison
Salary after tax + housing, city vs city.