📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Mansfield and Chicago
Head-to-Head Analysis
Mansfield vs Chicago
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Mansfield | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $113,378 | $74,474 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.2% | 4.2% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $487,500 | $365,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $179 | $261 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,291 | $1,507 |
| Housing Cost Index | 117.8 | 110.7 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 105.0 | 103.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $2.35 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 446.5 | 819.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | — | 45.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 33 | 38 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Chicago vs. Mansfield: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
You’re standing at a crossroads. On one side, the iconic skyline of Chicago, a city of deep-dish pizza, world-class museums, and a pulse that never slows. On the other, the quiet, suburban charm of Mansfield, Texas—a place where the pace is slower, the skies are bigger, and your dollar might stretch a little further. It’s not just a choice of geography; it’s a choice of lifestyle.
As a relocation expert, I’ve seen this dilemma play out a thousand times. Are you trading the "City of Big Shoulders" for a slice of Texas-sized suburban life? Let’s cut through the noise and get down to the brass tacks. We’ll compare the data, the vibe, and the real-world numbers to help you decide which city is your next home.
The Vibe Check: Fast-Paced Metro vs. Laid-Back Suburb
Chicago is a beast of a city. It’s the third-largest in the U.S., and it wears its history and diversity on its sleeve. This is a city of distinct neighborhoods—each with its own personality, from the artsy, upscale vibe of Lincoln Park to the bustling, international flavor of the West Loop. Life here is vertical, dense, and public. You don’t just live in Chicago; you experience it. The culture is undeniable: 77 distinct neighborhoods, a world-class food scene, the Art Institute, and a lakefront that feels like an ocean. It’s for the person who craves energy, anonymity, and endless options.
Mansfield, on the other hand, is the epitome of the modern Texas suburb. It’s about 30 miles south of Dallas and Fort Worth, offering a peaceful respite from the metroplex’s hustle. The vibe here is family-centric, community-focused, and decidedly more spacious. You’ll find more green space, newer housing developments, and a strong sense of local pride. It’s a place where you know your neighbors and the biggest decision of the day might be which backyard BBQ to attend. This is for the person who values space, a slower pace, and a strong sense of community, without being completely cut off from big-city amenities.
Who is each city for?
- Chicago is for the urbanist, the career-driven professional, the culture vulture, and anyone who thrives on the energy of a major metropolis.
- Mansfield is for families, young professionals seeking a balance, and retirees who want suburban comfort with easy access to major cities.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Feel Like More?
This is often the deciding factor. Let’s talk purchasing power. At first glance, Mansfield’s median income of $113,378 dwarfs Chicago’s $74,474. But income is only half the story. It’s about what that money can buy.
The Big Tax Advantage: Texas has 0% state income tax. Illinois has a flat income tax rate of 4.95%. On a $100,000 salary, that’s a $4,950 difference you keep in your pocket in Mansfield. That’s a significant head start.
Now, let’s break down the monthly costs.
Cost of Living Comparison Table
| Category | Chicago, IL | Mansfield, TX | Winner (Cheaper) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR) | $1,507 | $1,291 | Mansfield |
| Utilities (Monthly) | $150 - $200 | $150 - $200 | Tie |
| Groceries | +10% Above Avg | +3% Above Avg | Mansfield |
| Median Home Price | $365,000 | $487,500 | Chicago |
| Housing Index | 110.7 | 117.8 | Chicago |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
Let’s run a scenario. You earn $100,000. After taxes, in Chicago you take home roughly $75,500. In Mansfield, you take home the full $100,000.
- In Chicago: Your $1,507 rent is about 24% of your post-tax monthly income (~$6,292). You have a decent amount left for other expenses, but you’re paying a premium for location.
- In Mansfield: Your $1,291 rent is only 15% of your post-tax monthly income (~$8,333). That’s a massive difference. You have over $7,000 more in your pocket annually just from the tax break, and your rent is lower.
Insight: While Mansfield’s median home price is higher, that’s skewed by newer, larger suburban homes. For an equivalent property, Chicago’s older housing stock can be cheaper. However, for renters and those prioritizing cash flow, Mansfield offers significantly more purchasing power. The "sticker shock" of Texas property taxes is real, but the lack of income tax often balances it out for middle and upper-income earners.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent Analysis
Chicago:
The market is competitive but vast. The Housing Index of 110.7 means it’s 10.7% more expensive than the national average, but that’s relative. You have options from vintage walk-ups to luxury high-rises. Renting is the norm for many, especially young professionals. Buying is a long-term investment, often in historic properties that require upkeep. It’s a balanced market, with inventory available across a wide spectrum.
Mansfield:
The Housing Index of 117.8 is higher than Chicago’s, signaling a more expensive market relative to the national average. This is driven by demand for newer, single-family homes. The median home price of $487,500 reflects this. The market is competitive, especially for turnkey homes in good school districts. It’s a seller’s market in desirable neighborhoods, with homes selling quickly. Renting is an option, but the market is geared towards ownership.
Verdict: Chicago offers more variety and potentially lower entry points for renters and buyers seeking urban living. Mansfield offers more space and newer construction for a higher price, with a steeper competition for the best properties.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute:
- Chicago: Traffic is legendary. The "L" and bus system are extensive, but commutes can be long. The average commute time is ~35 minutes. Parking is a nightmare and expensive.
- Mansfield: You’re car-dependent. Commutes to Dallas or Fort Worth can be 45-60+ minutes in traffic. However, within Mansfield itself, getting around is easy. The trade-off is space for a longer drive.
Weather:
- Chicago: Be ready for all four seasons, and they can be extreme. Winters are harsh, with an average low of 21°F and significant snow. Summers are hot and humid. The "Windy City" nickname is earned.
- Mansfield: Texas weather is more extreme on the heat side. Summers are brutal, with highs routinely over 95°F and high humidity. Winters are mild (average low 40°F), but you get occasional ice storms. Tornadoes are a seasonal risk.
Crime & Safety:
- Chicago: The data is sobering. The violent crime rate is 819.0 per 100k, which is significantly above the national average. However, this varies wildly by neighborhood. Areas like Lincoln Park and the Gold Coast are very safe, while others struggle. It requires research and situational awareness.
- Mansfield: The violent crime rate is 446.5 per 100k, which is also above the national average but notably lower than Chicago’s. As a suburb, it generally feels safer and more controlled, but crime is not absent.
Verdict: Mansfield wins on crime statistics and a more predictable, albeit hot, climate. Chicago offers walkability and four seasons at the cost of higher crime density and brutal winters.
The Final Verdict: Which City is Right for You?
After crunching the numbers and living the vibes, here’s the final call.
Winner for Families: Mansfield
Why: Space, schools, and safety. The higher median income and more affordable rent (relative to income) allow for a better quality of life. Larger homes with yards are the norm. The suburban school districts are highly rated, and the lower violent crime rate provides peace of mind. The community feel is strong, which is invaluable for raising kids.
Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: Chicago
Why: Career opportunities, culture, and social life. The sheer density of people and industries creates networking and dating pools that are unparalleled. You can live without a car, and your world is the city itself. The higher cost of living is the price of admission to a life filled with events, nightlife, and professional growth. Mansfield would feel isolating by comparison.
Winner for Retirees: It Depends.
- Mansfield wins for those seeking a low-tax, sunny, and quiet retirement. The 0% income tax is a huge benefit on fixed income. The mild winters are a draw for those leaving colder climates.
- Chicago wins for retirees who want walkability, cultural access, and don’t mind the cold. The healthcare system is world-class, and you can age in place without driving. It’s for the active, urban retiree.
At a Glance: Pros & Cons
Chicago Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unmatched cultural amenities | High violent crime rate |
| World-class public transit | Brutal winters |
| Vibrant, diverse neighborhoods | High cost of living (especially taxes) |
| No car needed in many areas | Competitive housing market |
| Strong job market | Traffic congestion |
Mansfield Pros & Cons
| Pros | :--- |
|---|---|
| 0% state income tax | Car-dependent lifestyle |
| More affordable housing (rent) | Brutal summer heat & humidity |
| Lower violent crime rate | Longer commutes to major job hubs |
| Family-friendly, spacious suburbs | Fewer cultural amenities vs. a major city |
| Mild winters | Higher median home price |
The Bottom Line: If your priority is career growth, urban culture, and walkability, and you can handle the cost and cold, Chicago is your city. If your priority is family space, financial efficiency (taxes), and a slower pace, and you don’t mind the heat and driving, Mansfield is your home. Choose wisely.