| Chicago | Modesto | |
| 1 Summer dress in a chain store | USD 32.14 | USD 54.67 |
| Water bottle (1.5 liter) | USD 1.52 | USD 1.35 |
| Taxi 1km | USD 1.24 | USD 2.33 |
| Monthly Pass (local transport) | USD 100.00 | USD 50.50 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) outside of centre | USD 978.58 | USD 500.00 |