Top 5 Pros and Cons of Moving to Chicago

Looking to move to Chicago? Well, then, you’ll want to be aware of the pros and cons of moving to Chicago.

Living in this windy city is like being in a large playground with thrilling adventures around every corner. 

With a population of 2.7 million, there is no doubt that living in Chicago has its own perks, but does it live up to the hype?

While the city offers numerous opportunities for cultural scenes, breathtaking architecture, world-class cuisine, professional growth, and a bustling urban lifestyle, it also comes with its fair challenges. 

So whether you’re searching for a fancy apartment in the Loop or a comfy apartment in Lincoln Park, you’ve come to the right place. 

But before we dive into the pros and cons of living in Chicago, let’s explore some interesting facts about the city.  

Chicago At a Glance: 10 Interesting Facts

1. Home to Modern Architecture

Chicago’s 10-story-tall Home insurance building was the world’s first sky-scrapper.

Starting from the Willis Tower to the grand Graystones, along with Trump Tower and Grant Thornton Tower, Chicago isn’t afraid to make a statement. 

Moreover, Chicago’s groundbreaking designs and trendsetting architectural feats have created an impact worldwide.

2. One of The Tallest Buildings In The World Is Designed By a Woman 

It may not be the tallest building in Chicago (that recognition goes to the Willis Tower, at 110 storeys), but the 82-floor Acqua is the tallest structure in the world to be designed by a woman, architect Jeanne Gang.  

3. The City is Famous For Its Deep-Dish Pizza

Chicago is well-known for its deep-dish pizza, which was first introduced in the 1940s by Ike Sewell, Pizzeria Uno’s founder. 

4. There Are More Hot Dog Stands Than McDonald’s 

The city is home to popular Chicago-style Hot Dogs. They have more Hot Dog stands than McDonald’s, Burger King, and Wendy’s combined.  They typically come in a Poppy-seed bun topped with peppers, yellow mustard, onions, pickles, and neon-green sweet pickle relish.

5. The City is Known As The RailRoad Capital 

Chicago is often called the USA’s railroad capital since it has over 1300 trains that carry people and goods to and from the city every day. 

6. The Chicago Fire in 1871 Destroyed One-Third of The City

Chicago witnessed what is to be known as the Great Chicago Fire in 1871, which destroyed one-third of the city, the origins of which are still unknown. It left more than 100,000 homeless. 

Some of the pre-fire buildings that are still standing include the City Gallery and Lookingglass Theatre. (formerly known as Chicago Water Tower and Pumping Station).

7. The Famous Walt Disney Was Born In Chicago

Our very famous Walt Disney, or Walter Elias Disney, a pioneer in the American animation industry, was born in Chicago in 1901.

He completed his education at McKinley High School and the Art Institute of Chicago. 

8. Nation’s First Open Heart Surgery Was Done in Chicago

Provident Hospital became the first hospital in Chicago to have an open-heart surgery, with Daniel Hale Williams being the one to perform it. 

He was one of the few black physicians in Chicago and graduated from Northwestern University.

As a result of the groundbreaking surgery, the patient was able to recover from a stab wound near the heart in less than two months. 

9. World’s Only Backward Flowing River

In 1900, the Chicago River was made to flow backward. This engineering project had an essential purpose: to divert sewage away from Lake Michigan’s freshwater supply.

10. Home To Several Celebrities

Several celebrities were born in this beautiful city, including David Schwimmer, Robin Williams, Melissa McCarthy, Benny Goodman, Quincy Jones, and Harrison Ford.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Moving To Chicago 

There are several advantages of moving to Chicago. With its iconic skyline, vibrant arts scene, diverse neighborhood, and stunning architecture, there is no reason why anyone wouldn’t want to move to Chicago if they got the opportunity. 

Whether you’re taking a stroll by Lake Michigan or having a fancy dinner in Downtown Chicago, whether you’re exploring the museums or cheering at a baseball game, Chicago always finds its way to make everyone feel at home. 

But every city has its own challenges, including the high crime rate, brutal winter, and too much traffic. 

We understand that moving to a new place is not an easy decision; however, you don’t have to stress about the decision to relocate so soon. 

We’ll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of living in Chicago in detail so that you can make an informed decision.

Advantages of Moving To Chicago

If you plan to move to Chicago, you’ll have plenty of exciting things to do in the city. 

This would include a strong job market, top-notch educational institutes, a vibrant art and cultural scene, etc. 

Here are a few perks you can expect if you are relocating to Chicago:

1. Amazing Food Scene

There is a high chance that when you think of Chicago and its food, the one thing that definitely comes to anyone’s mind is the city’s famous deep-dish pizza (aka Chicago-style pizza). Alongside pizza, Chicago boasts diverse culinary scenes.

One thing is for certain: if you move to this city, you’ll never go hungry.

The city’s neighborhoods offer hidden gems, from the Mexican cuisine of Costera Cocina Tulum to the Asian food of Chinatown.

And how can we forget the famous Chicago-style Hot Dog, which is Chicago residents’ favorite go-to snack.

For someone who is looking for fine dining options, Chicago has Michelin-starred restaurants like Alinea and Chicago-cut Steakhouse, where you and your partner can have a nice date. 

Not only that, it has cuisines from all over the world. Immigrants from India, Pakistan, China, and Latin America have all found a part of their homeland in this city.

Food festivals like Taste of Chicago and Chicago Gourmet showcase the city’s culinary diversity. 

2. The Public Transit System is Easily Accessible

You don’t have to worry about having a car in Chicago, as public transportation in the city is easily accessible. It also appeared in the list of the world’s best public transport systems as per Time Out. 

If you’re planning to live in a Chicago neighborhood that is serviced by an elevated railway (also known as the ‘L’) or any other Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) options, you’ll most likely reach your destination on time by avoiding the traffic. 

With extensive bus, bike, and train lane networks, living in Chicago without a car is just seamless. 

Also, how can we forget that with Google Maps and transit apps, navigating public transport systems is easy. 

3. Strong Job Market 

Chicago has a strong job market. It has opportunities in various sectors, including finance, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and education.

The city is home to various Fortune 500 companies, providing numerous employment opportunities. 

As a major financial sector, Chicago has many banks, insurance companies, and financial institutions, including the Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE) and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME). 

The presence of these companies, along with a growing number of startups and well-known companies like Google, Salesforce, Uber, Boeing, United Airlines, McDonald’s, The University of Chicago, and many others in the city, also contributes to economic stability and a sturdy job market.

According to data from ZipRecruiter, no matter what industry you are working in on the industry, the majority of Chicago professionals can expect to make anywhere between $53,500-$87,999 annually. The average annual salary in Chicago is around $87,592 

 So, if you’re looking for jobs in education, healthcare, cyber-security, data analytics, and software development field, this is the place for you.

4. Vibrant Art and Cultural Scene

There is always something to do in Chicago, and there won’t be a day when you’ll feel like you are missing out on something. 

The city offers you exceptional access to world-class theatres, music venues, and museums; it won’t even cost you a dime. (thanks to free museum days, local live music, and other cultural festivals) 

Here are a few of the most renowned cultural and outdoor attractions. If you are considering living in Chicago, you can’t miss it for sure!

•  Field Museum
• The Art Institute of Chicago
• Shedd Aquarium
• Chicago Symphony Orchestra
• The Lincoln Park Zoo
• Millenium Park
• Navy Pier
• Goodman Theatre
• The Chicago Theatre

Lollapalooza is a must for music fans, and the Chicago Blues Festival is people’s favorite. Here, the plethora of Jazz festivals keep you entertained all throughout the year, especially in summer. 

5. Top-Notch Architecture and Skyline

Yet another amazing thing about living in Chicago is its top-notch modern architecture and beautiful skyline. After the great Chicago fire of 1871, the city introduced steel and glass skyscrapers that we see today.

Isn’t it amazing to know that the buildings are constructed of steel rather than wood? Imagine. The city has created a visually stunning landscape that influences the design all over the world. These iconic buildings include the Willis Tower, the John Hancock Center, the Trump Tower, and the Equitable Building.

Apart from the skyscrapers, Chicago features classic architecture by renowned architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.

Pro Tip: If you want to witness the beauty of Chicago’s magnificent skyline by boat, it will indeed be an unforgettable experience. 

Disadvantages of Moving To Chicago

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room. Shall we? There are a few disadvantages to moving to Chicago as well; we can’t say if any of those might be a deal breaker for you because it totally depends on an individual’s preferences, be it brutal winters, high cost of living, and high crime rate. 

Here are a few cons you can expect if you are planning to move to Chicago:

1. High Cost of Living

One of the major factors to consider before moving to Chicago is the cost of living in the city. According to The Best Places, the cost of living in Chicago is around 6% higher than the US average. 

So, you must be thinking, is it expensive to live in Chicago? The answer is yes if you compare it to cities like Charlotte or Detroit; however, if you compare it with cities like New York or Los Angeles, you’ll find Chicago more affordable.

As per numbeo, the estimated monthly cost of a family of four is around $6916.5 (including the rent), and the estimated monthly cost of a single person is $1897.3 (including the rest)

As per a study, to live comfortably in Chicago, an individual needs an annual salary of around $93,999. 

When we talk about buying a home in Chicago, the average price would be around $295,743, up 2.7% over the past year.

Renters also face high costs. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Chicago is around $2331, and utilities are extra. 

To give you an estimate, we have mentioned the approximate rents according to the area and types of bedrooms. 

Please note that these are estimated figures; rental prices may depend on various factors, including the size of the house, the location, and the quality of the house. 

2. Winters Can Be Brutal

One of the most challenging aspects of living in Chicago is its harsh winters, with below-freezing temperatures, heavy rainfall, and strong winds.

The city experiences an average of 36 inches of snow per year. 

As the snow sets, Lake Michigan freezes over, impacting the nearby areas.

If you are planning to live in Chicago, then you need to be prepared for this harsh winter weather and take extra precautions during the colder months.

This includes having a proper winter jacket, getting winter tires for your car (if you plan on buying one) to prepare for icy conditions, and ensuring your home is adequately heated and insulated. 

Brutal snowstorms can disrupt your daily life, schools are closed, the transportation system is put on halt, and you might end up paying higher heating bills.

We don’t plan to scare you, but this is the reality of the windy city. Consider all these factors before you plan to move to Chicago for good. 

3. High Crime Rate Can’t Be Ignored

The one concern that can come to your mind while you are weighing the pros and cons of moving to Chicago is, “Is Chicago safe to live in?”. So, on the list of 1 to 100 when we talk about violent crime, Chicago rates 49.9 while the U.S. overall rates 22.7. 

The city struggles with crimes in specific neighborhoods, and there are around 30.6 crimes per 1000 residents, which can be a huge concern for residents and potential immigrants. 

The city faces issues with violent crimes, including shootings, gang violence, and others. The overall crime rate, especially the violent crime rate, is higher than the US average. Murder, rape, and robbery are common violent crimes in the city. 

However, this doesn’t imply that the whole city is unsafe. The best way to stay safe in Chicago is to travel in groups (especially at night), try staying away from dingy areas, and be cautious about your surroundings, and you’ll be good.

4. Traffic Can Be a Nightmare

Yes, you read that right. Traffic can be a nightmare if you are planning to move to Chicago. The city’s busy streets and highways are frequently congested, especially during peak office hours. Eventually, it starts affecting your quality of life. 

In fact, Chicago’s traffic is rated as the third worst in the country. Prepare yourself to experience delays in reaching your destination, especially during rush hours. Plan your route or try leaving your home early to avoid any delays.

Although great public transportation exists, there are still some people who don’t wanna give up the luxury of having a car; if you find yourself in the same boat, then allocate a lot of time to traffic. 

5. Seasonal Allergies

For those people who are sensitive to seasonal changes, Chicago experiences high pollen levels, primarily from trees in the spring and grasses in the summer.

This can trigger severe allergy symptoms in people who are prone to allergies. Staying informed about the local pollen forecasts can assist people in planning their activities and taking the required and necessary precautions for symptom relief.  

 This can be a small inconvenience for some and a major inconvenience for others, affecting their day-to-day outdoor activities. 

Are You Planning To Move To Chicago?

You must be thinking about what it is like to live in Chicago. Then let us tell you, you’re going to have the time of your life while witnessing the numerous job opportunities, beautiful skyline, and great nightlife.  

But to experience all of this, you need to go through the stressful planning of moving your home. 

You need to decide which one would be convenient for DIY moving vs hiring professional movers. If you are planning to hire professional movers, do your research and then choose the right moving company that will accommodate all your needs and make your move seamless. 

When you are moving to a new place, there are several things you need to take care of, whether it’s making a moving checklist, packing your valuables safely, or handling heavy or fragile items.

Let the professional movers take care of it while you focus on planning the interior of your new home. 

Professional movers are trained in packing, loading, transporting, and unloading your belongings carefully to your new location so that you don’t have to lift a finger. 

If you have plenty of belongings and you want to store some in storage units, don’t stress; professional movers can arrange 24×7 climate-controlled storage solutions for your belongings.

Delegate the difficult task of moving to a professional moving company, and you just sit back and relax while they handle it all.

Conclusion

Moving to a new place is never an easy decision to make. When it comes to deciding if you should relocate to a new city or not, you should carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages of moving to Chicago. 

Every city has its upsides and downsides. The city is known for its beautiful skyline, good transportation system, amazing food scene, and strong job market. On the other hand, you can face the challenges of a high crime rate, harsh winters, and a high cost of living. 

In the end, it’s up to you to decide if you can manage the cost of living in this windy city and what would benefit you and your family more in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Chicago a good place to live? 

Chicago is a good place to live. You need to carefully weigh all the pros and cons of living in Chicago before planning to relocate here, and once you decide to, you’ll see that the city has many beautiful neighborhoods, amazing food, and friendly people. 

2. How much do you need to live comfortably in Chicago?

With careful planning and spending, you would need at least $75,000 yearly after taxes to live comfortably in Chicago.

 While housing may be a major expense, there are other affordable options if you are willing to live outside the city.

Along with it comes other expenses, including food, groceries, entertainment, etc. 

3. What are some of the best neighborhoods in Chicago?

Some of the best neighborhoods in Chicago are Hyde Park, Logan Square, Avondale, South Loop Andersonville, Lincoln Park, Lake View, and Norwood Park. 

There are many other nice neighborhoods, too, but it depends on your budget and which area you want to move in. 

4. Is NYC better or Chicago?

Both cities offer many opportunities for work, entertainment, and culture, but the cost of living in NYC is higher than in Chicago. 

However, Chicago is a more liveable city as it is less crowded and yet still has the same world-city vibe as New York, with first-rate museums, restaurants, and orchestras, along with a beautiful skyline.