Moving from Toronto to Chicago could use some budgeting/investing guidance

Budgeting

I’m moving from Toronto to Chicago and could really use some guidance. It’s a big jump for me financially, and I’m also completely new to the U.S. system.

Income
$100K USD base
$142.8K total comp if I hit 100% commission
Paid biweekly

Monthly expenses
Rent: $2,159 USD
Utilities + internet: ~$175
Medical payment: $442 CAD (next 12 months)
Student loan: $159 CAD
Renters insurance: ~$20
Health/dental/vision through work: cost TBD

Investing
401(k): planning 6% of each paycheck to get the employer match
SPP: considering 15% of each paycheck

Could anyone in a similar income bracket share roughly how much you’re realistically saving/investing each month and how you split it up?

I’m also new to the States, so I don’t really understand where I should be investing outside of my 401(k)/SPP yet. I use Wealthsimple in Canada and love having everything in one place, so I’m a little sad there isn’t a direct equivalent here.

I’m mostly overwhelmed because this is a big move and a much higher cost of living than I’m used to. After all the payroll deductions, my biweekly take-home will likely be less than my monthly rent, which is intimidating even though I know that’s not necessarily the best way to compare them.

Would also love to know what people typically pay for employer health/dental/vision and whether there are any other U.S. expenses I should be budgeting for that I might not be thinking about.

Posted Aug 12, 2026, 3:30 AM UTC

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