As far as big cities go, Chicago is actually one of the more affordable in the country, with an average cost of living just 7.4% above the national average.
Like Chicago, Atlanta is relatively affordable as far as big-city living goes, with prices running 9.4% above the national average.
Los Angeles is one of the most expensive cities in the United States, with an overall cost-of-living index of 176.2 (100 being the national average).
Seattle is nearly as expensive as Los Angeles, with the average cost of living coming in at 67.8% above the national average.
Residents of Boston pay 53.4% above the national average to live there, but costs in nearby Brockton are closer to 20% above national norms.
Manhattan is the priciest city in America, with average costs well over double the national average. This can make finding an attractive, nearby suburb nearly impossible.