If you want your life to be an adventure filled with mouthwatering food, shopping, the arts, culture, and history, Chicago is the place to go! Despite being called the “Second City,” Chicago is the most important city to its residents.
Inhabitants’ pride is so strong that many want to flaunt it wherever they go, wearing the city’s four-starred flag on shirts and hats and even engraving it on their skin. However, other inhabitants enjoy whining about the bad weather, traffic, and dishonest politicians.
As long as you’re prepared to have your hot dog condiments evaluated, acquire some Chicago slang, and understand the unwritten norms of life in the city, the town welcomes transplants from all over the world.
If you’re considering a new place to call home, we have compiled nine solid reasons to move to Chicago.
A Steady Job Market
The employment situation in Chicago has dramatically improved in recent years. Hiring in professional services, IT, healthcare, and insurance is increasing, and unemployment has decreased from 8.4% to less than 6%.
Lake Michigan
One of the best things about living in Chicago is unquestionably Lake Michigan.
In addition to 18.5 miles of trails and 26 miles of stunning public beaches spanning North Avenue Beach to Montrose Beach, the Lakeshore features green space for hiking, biking, tennis courts, baseball pitches, volleyball playgrounds, and soccer fields.
World Class Dining & Nightlife
Are you familiar with Restaurant Row? It is located in the West Loop district of Chicago and may have some of the city, state, and country’s best diners, bars, and restaurants.
This area features notable restaurants and bars, including Au Cheval, Green Street Meats, Maude’s Liquor Bar, Belly Q, and SoHo House Chicago. It is anchored by Stephanie Izard’s well-known Girl and the Goat.
Affordable Rents
Although rent in Chicago is rising, as in all major US cities, you may get more space for your money than in New York or San Francisco, where typical rents are nearly double that of Chicago.
Your location heavily influences rent in any city, so if you want to save money on rent, you should avoid popular neighborhoods like River North, Logan Square, and the West Loop.
The Sports
If you’re a sports fan, you should probably live in Chicago. (Ever heard of Michael Jordan?!) Our legendary and enviable sports team roster includes MLB standouts the Chicago Cubs (Fly the W) and the Chicago White Sox.
It includes NFL legends, the Chicago Bears, hockey superstars, and the Chicago Blackhawks. Then you start getting into the college teams in the area, and the list continues.
A Shopaholics Dream
Chicago is a haven for shoppers! The renowned Magnificent Mile offers upscale dining, entertainment, and retail establishments. State Street, which has the iconic Macy’s, is another fantastic place to shop.
Visit Lincoln Park’s charming shopping area around Halsted and Armitage to veer off the usual route.
The Summer Months
Summer is the best season for Chicagoans. It offers innumerable festivals like the Old Town Art Fair Win and Dy City Rib Fest and many concerts like Pitchfork, Lollapalooza, and the Windy City Lake Shake.
In addition, there’s a new beach to discover at every turn; this is the best time of year. Yes, the summer is a good enough excuse to relocate to Chicago.
History, Arts & Culture A-Plenty
Chicago is rich in culture, history, and the arts. You may visit monuments and museums for days!
Among the greatest are the Field Museum of Natural History, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Shedd Aquarium, the Chicago Cultural Center, the Chicago History Museum, and the Alder Planetarium.
The Architecture
Chicago, home to various neo-Gothic skyscrapers, famous Prairie School buildings, and modern constructions by architects like Jeanne Gang and Helmut Jahn, is home to many of America’s most recognizable architects and city planners.
Soon after you move here, take an architectural tour to learn more about the city and its past, or visit Oak Park for a crash lesson in Frank Lloyd Wright’s creations.
What Salary Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Chicago?
Housing: Housing costs, including rent or mortgage, utilities, and insurance, can vary greatly depending on the neighborhood and the accommodation type. A one-bedroom apartment in a decent neighborhood might cost around $1,500 to $2,500 monthly.
Transportation: This can include public transportation costs, car expenses, insurance, and gas. A monthly CTA pass might cost around $105; additional transportation expenses could vary depending on whether you own a car and how frequently you use it.
Groceries and Dining: Food costs can vary based on eating habits. A monthly grocery bill might range from $150 to $300, and dining-out expenses could be an additional $200 to $400 monthly.
Healthcare: Healthcare costs can vary significantly based on insurance coverage and medical needs. Some employers provide healthcare benefits, while others might not. Health insurance premiums, co-pays, and prescriptions are factors to consider.
Entertainment and Miscellaneous Expenses: This includes leisure activities, entertainment, clothing, personal care, and other discretionary spending. The amount spent in this category can vary significantly based on individual preferences.
Given these circumstances, a gross yearly salary of $60,000 to $80,000 or more may be necessary for a single person to live comfortably in Chicago. This estimate covers essential living expenses, savings, recreational pursuits, and unforeseen expenses.
What are the Advantages of Living in Chicago?
Cultural Diversity: Chicago has many cultures, ethnicities, languages, and traditions, creating a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere.
Economic Opportunities: The city is a central financial hub with a diverse economy encompassing finance, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and more. This presents a variety of job opportunities across different industries.
Arts and Entertainment: Chicago boasts a thriving arts and entertainment scene. The city has numerous theaters, museums, art galleries, music venues, and cultural festivals, offering constant entertainment and cultural enrichment.
Sports Enthusiasm: If you’re a sports fan, Chicago has professional teams in baseball (Cubs and White Sox), football (Bears), basketball (Bulls), and hockey (Blackhawks). The city’s passionate sports culture is a significant draw for many residents.
Dining Scene: Chicago is known for its diverse and vibrant culinary scene. Various cuisines and dining experiences exist, from world-class restaurants to neighborhood eateries.
Lakefront and Parks: Lake Michigan’s beautiful shoreline provides opportunities for outdoor activities, picnics, jogging, and biking. The city also has numerous parks, including Millennium Park and Grant Park, offering green spaces for relaxation and recreation.
Public Transportation: Chicago’s extensive public transportation system, including buses and the “L” train system, makes it relatively easy to get around the city without a car.
Education and Universities: The city is home to renowned universities and colleges, providing higher education and research opportunities.
Business and Networking: Given its numerous industries and economic activities, the city provides ample opportunities for networking, business connections, and professional growth.
Sense of Community: Chicago neighborhoods often have a strong sense of community, with residents actively participating in local events, associations, and initiatives.
Healthcare Facilities: The city has several reputable healthcare facilities and medical centers that provide access to quality healthcare services.
Public Services: The city offers various public services, including libraries, community centers, and parks, contributing to the overall quality of life.
Central Location: Chicago’s central location in the United States makes it a convenient domestic and international travel hub.
What are the Disadvantages of Living in Chicago?
Weather: Chicago experiences all four seasons distinctly, with cold winters and hot, humid summers. The weather extremes can be challenging for some residents, particularly those unfamiliar with harsh winters.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Chicago can be relatively high, especially in specific neighborhoods, and for expenses such as housing and property taxes.
Traffic and Transportation: While public transportation is well-developed, traffic congestion can be a concern, particularly during rush hours. Commutes can be long, and parking can be expensive and limited in some areas.
Crime Rates: While Chicago is a large and diverse city with many safe neighborhoods, certain areas experience higher crime rates. It’s essential to research neighborhoods and take safety precautions.
Property Taxes: Property taxes in Chicago can be higher than in other cities. This can impact homeowners and renters alike.
State and Local Taxes: Illinois has higher state income taxes than other states, which can impact your overall tax burden.
Noise and Crowds: Living in a densely populated city means dealing with noise, crowded public spaces, and the potential for traffic congestion.
It’s crucial to remember that every person’s experience in Chicago will be different, and what some people perceive as drawbacks may not be to others.
Therefore, it is advised that you do extensive study on the city, visit several neighborhoods, and weigh the advantages and disadvantages of your priorities and preferences before deciding to relocate.
Conclusion
Chicago provides inhabitants and tourists with a sophisticated, urban, and premium experience with big-city opportunities.
With its coffee shops, pubs, old and modern buildings, and kilometers of blue water and white sand beaches, the City of Big Shoulders has become a fantastic spot for young professionals, families, and businesses to call home.