Tech
Software Engineer Salary · New York vs Chicago
Net pay, tax drag, and purchasing power modeled for 2025 offers. Built for relocating teams, expats, and comp committees.
Net pay
New York
$128,853
25.9% effective rate
Net pay
Chicago
$112,449
25.0% effective rate
Annual delta
Spread
+$16,404
New York advantage
City
New York
The global financial capital, characterized by high compensation but significant cost of living and local tax burdens.
Median professional income
$78,500
Role modeled
Software Engineer
Gross base
$174,000
Net after tax
$128,853
Cost-of-living index
73
Rent index
64
City
Chicago
The Midwest’s trading and private equity hub with comparatively moderate housing costs.
Median professional income
$78,500
Role modeled
Software Engineer
Gross base
$150,000
Net after tax
$112,449
Cost-of-living index
56
Rent index
84
Purchasing power
Net income vs lifestyle drag
New York
$10,738
Chicago
$9,371
Cost-of-living deep dive
Flip into the COL template for this exact pair. See rent burdens, discretionary drift, and PPP commentary.
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