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Chester, WV vs Gary, WV

61
Chester
West Virginia
VS
-20.1%
76
Gary
West Virginia

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Chester is 20.1% cheaper than Gary. With a cost index of 61 vs 76, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Chester to Gary should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

When it comes to buying, median home values in Chester are $110,600 compared to $55,600 in Gary, a 99% gap.

Median household income in Chester is $63,750 compared to $40,000 in Gary (+59.4%). Chester offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (51.8°F vs 52.1°F). Gary receives more rainfall at 41.2" per year compared to 39.6" in Chester.

Income & Cost

Cost of Living Index
Chester
61
20% cheaper
Gary
76
Median Household Income
Chester
$63,750
37% higher
Gary
$40,000

Housing

Median Rent
Chester
$686
Gary
Median Home Value
Chester
$110,600
Gary
$55,600
50% cheaper
Population
Chester
2,302
Gary
858

Salary Equivalency Calculator

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Everyday Prices

BLS Average Prices by metro area

Gasoline (regular)
Chester $2.94
Gary
US $3.07
🥚
Eggs (grade A, large)
Chester $2.40
Gary
US $2.50
🥛
Milk (whole)
Chester $3.86
Gary
US $4.03
🍞
Bread (white)
Chester $1.77
Gary
US $1.85
🍗
Chicken breast
Chester $3.97
Gary
US $4.14
Electricity
Chester $0.17
Gary
US $0.19

Climate

NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)

Avg Temp
Chester 51.8°F
Gary 52.1°F
Summer High
Chester 83°F
Gary 79°F
Winter Low
Chester 21°F
Gary 24°F
Rainfall
Chester 39.6"
Gary 41.2"
Rainy Days
Chester 154d
Gary 154d