See why Chicago isn’t just a city, but a lifestyle that is just dying to meet you. Our guide covers everything you need to know, from the cost of living and best neighborhoods to the job market and top local attractions. Discover why Chicago might just be your perfect new home.
Welcome to one of the most visited cities in the U.S., home to Millenium Park and world-famous deep-dish pizza. Its history is rich, boasting some incredible architecture and museums that are well worth the visit.
We’ll show you why, despite its high cost of living, Chicago is the place to be in 2024 and beyond.
Living here doesn’t come cheap. Chicago’s cost of living is 20% higher than the national average, but for good reason.
Living in Chicago can feel like playing a high-stakes game of Monopoly but with real money. The Windy City might sweep you off your feet with its charm, but it'll also sweep a fair chunk of change from your wallet.
Why? Well, brace yourself for a 10.25% combined state and local sales tax, which is like adding a hefty tip on everything you buy. Even stocking up on groceries isn’t spared, thanks to a 2.25% sales tax.
If you’re dining out, there's a little extra 25% tax, making that slice of deep-dish pizza a bit pricier. And let’s not forget that owning a square on this real-life game board means dealing with the nation’s second-highest property tax.
So, even the most frugal Chicagoans must strategize financially to thrive.
Chinatown in Chicago isn't just big; it's one of the biggest of its kind in the U.S.
Home to over 65,000 Chinese residents, this neighborhood is like a mini trip to China, packed with vibrant public art, authentic eats, and unique shops. Plus, it's home to Chinatown Square, the largest Chinese mall in the Midwest. If you're looking to immerse yourself in Chinese culture without the long flight, Chicago's Chinatown is the place to be.
Humboldt Park is a lively neighborhood in Chicago that really stands out with its Spanish-style buildings and bright wall paintings. It’s like a piece of Puerto Rico right in the city, with about a quarter of its people being of Puerto Rican descent. You can visit the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, try some delicious food, and browse unique shops.
The area is famous for two big parties each year: the Puerto Rican People’s Parade and Fiesta Boricua, which fill the streets with music and fun.
If you're thinking of moving here, the houses are pretty affordable, though some might need fixing up. Rent starts at about $800. So, Humboldt Park offers a lot of culture and fun without costing too much.
Among the most affluent areas for young professionals, the Gold Coast offers a luxurious yet accessible lifestyle. Located just a mile north of downtown, it’s renowned for its historic significance, including the original Playboy Mansion and the bustling Magnificent Mile with its upscale shops and gourmet eateries.
Here, fairy-tale living comes without the royal costs, as you walk tree-lined streets among grand mansions and enjoy breathtaking skyline views from Oak Street Beach.
Chicago sometimes gets a bad rap for its history, thanks to notorious figures like Al Capone and John Dillinger. More recently, it's been dubbed the "murder capital" of the nation. But hold it, things are changing.
According to a recent Chicago Tribune article, the city has made significant progress in curbing violent crime. In fact, shootings have dropped by about 30% over the last two years. It looks like Chicago is slowly shaking off its old reputation and making the streets safer for everyone.
Chicago offers its workers countless professional opportunities with over 200,000 jobs created since 2010 in sectors like manufacturing, IT, publishing, healthcare, and tech. Chicago is also the second largest business sector, home to 35 Fortune 500 companies.
In the city, there’s no shortage of jobs, just put your best foot forward and you’re sure to find employment.
Chicago prides itself on excellent educational institutions, both public and private. Notable public schools include:
On the private side:
In Chicago, sports aren't just a pastime; they're a lifestyle. Whether you're truly passionate or just faking it till you make it, cheering for one of Chicago’s many pro or college teams is practically a local mandate.
So grab a seat at a game or pull up a barstool at any sports bar in town. Attending games or gathering at a sports bar offers a fantastic way to connect with the community.
Here’s a list of the professional sports teams:
Regarded as one of America’s food capitals, Chicago’s culinary scene rivals that of NYC. Must-try local specialties included deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs.
Don’t miss out on the Tastes of Chicago, the world’s largest food festival, held in Grant Park.
Every St. Patrick's Day in Chicago, the river turns a shade of emerald green, and it feels like the whole city shows up to see it. This weird tradition started back in 1962 with Mayor Richard J. Daley, and it's been famous ever since. Whether you're a local or just visiting, watching the Chicago River go green is a must-see.
Chicago is a music lover's paradise with a vibrant lineup of open-air music festivals accessible via public transit, so you can skip the parking drama.
No matter your taste, Chicago’s festivals are music to everyone’s ears.
In Chicago, there's more to life than just deep-dish pizza and towering skyscrapers. For those who live here, forget the typical tourist traps and head to Garfield Park Conservatory.
It's a warm escape during those bone-chilling winters and one of the largest conservatories in the nation. Imagine a green paradise with thousands of plant species. Plus, they offer free yoga classes, engaging monthly lectures, and a bi-monthly concert series for kids—all for free. It’s the perfect spot to unwind during the weekend.
Are you falling head over heels for the Windy City yet? Well, whether you’re moving here for work or just for a new environment, there’s something for everyone in Chicago.
Our number 1 piece of advice is to just start exploring, and before you know it, you’ll have a list of go-to spots and activities to do every weekend.
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