Chicago, known as the Windy City, offers a lively urban lifestyle, famous for its deep-dish pizza, iconic skyline and bustling streets.
As the birthplace of the skyscraper, Chicago has made a lasting impact on architecture but it’s also a city rich in natural beauty. With its 18.5-mile lakefront trail and over 600 parks, it’s a great spot for both outdoor lovers and city explorers.
So, is Chicago a good place to live? Many people think so! With a balance of nature and city life, it’s no wonder why so many people choose to move here. Over the years, Chicago Movers Near Me has helped numerous happy clients make the transition to this vibrant city.
Here’s our guide to moving to Chicago.
1. The Chicago Lifestyle
What is life like in Chicago? With nearly three million people, it’s the third-largest city in the U.S. Living here gives you the best of both worlds – the fast pace of city life combined with the friendly feel of the Midwest.
Chicago has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in different cultures and foods or enjoy outdoor activities and parks, there’s plenty to explore. While meeting new people in such a big city can feel overwhelming at first, there are plenty of social events to help you connect.
You can join fitness classes, volunteer, take part in River Bowl or get involved in sports leagues to meet new people. Living in Chicago is all about exploring and experiencing new things and it all begins with that first step.
2. Chicago’s Climate & Weather
If you enjoy experiencing both cold winters and hot summers, Chicago’s weather offers plenty of variety. The city’s climate ranges from hot, humid summers to cold, snowy winters and its nickname, the “Windy City,” comes from its often unpredictable windy weather.
- Summer: Warm and humid, with temperatures in July and August usually hitting highs around 82°F and lows around 62°F. During heatwaves, it can reach the mid-90s or even 100°F.
- Winter: Winters are cold and windy, with temperatures in January and February typically ranging from 12°F to 31°F.
- Spring & Fall: The in-between seasons of spring and autumn are cooler, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F.
Chicago usually gets a steady breeze (about 10-12 mph) which can make it feel colder in the winter or hotter in the summer. The city sees about 36 inches of rain and 21 inches of snow each year, with the rainiest months being June and July.
3. The Cost of Living in Chicago
When moving to Chicago, the cost of living is an important thing to consider. From housing to groceries and everything else, there are several expenses to think about before relocating to the Windy City.
Housing
As of February 22, 2023, the average cost per square foot for homes in Chicago is about $190.28, though this can vary depending on the neighborhood. On average, homes sold in the last year were around 50 years old and measured 1,476 square feet.
The higher housing prices in Chicago are due to several factors including limited housing availability which creates more competition and drives up prices. Additionally, Chicago’s strong economy, great location and cultural attractions make it a desirable place to live, increasing demand for housing.
Even with high housing costs, low-interest rates and other economic factors have made it easier for some buyers to purchase homes.
Taxes
One advantage of moving to Chicago is that Illinois does not have state income taxes, meaning you get to keep more of your earnings. While there are property taxes, they are lower compared to many other large cities, making homeownership more affordable. Chicago also offers various tax credits and exemptions such as the Homeowners’ Exemption which helps reduce the overall tax burden for those who live in their own homes.
Cost of Living
The average cost of living in Chicago is about $63,251 per year which is 23% higher than the national average. Factors like job salary, career choices and housing costs all play a role in this. However, Chicago is still more affordable than cities like New York or Los Angeles. With an average annual salary of $73,800, it’s possible to enjoy a good quality of life in the city.
4. Exploring Chicago Neighborhoods
Back in 1830, a surveyor named James Thompson mapped out the first layout of Chicago, splitting it into three main sections based on the Chicago River’s natural divisions – the North Side, West Side and South Side.
Since becoming a city in 1837, Chicago has grown in all directions, taking in nearby areas and eventually extending all the way to Lake Michigan’s shore.
The Loop
The Loop is Chicago’s main business district and one of its 77 official community areas. It’s bordered by the Chicago River on the west and north, Lake Michigan to the east and Roosevelt Road to the south.
This area is home to City Hall and many of the city’s key attractions such as museums, parks, theaters and shopping areas. The Loop is also known for its educational institutions including the Art Institute of Chicago, the University of Chicago, and Columbia College Chicago making it a lively and important part of the city.
The North Side
Chicago’s North Side offers a mix of residential, cultural and commercial spots, along with entertainment options. It includes well-known neighborhoods like Wicker Park, Lakeview and Lincoln Park.
This area is famous for its diverse restaurants, unique shops and lively nightlife. Major attractions like Navy Pier, Lincoln Park Zoo and the Magnificent Mile are located here as well.
As Chicago has shifted from an industrial city to one focused on technology, the North Side has become a hub for new businesses. It’s also home to the Chicago Cubs, who play at the historic Wrigley Field in Lakeview.
The West Side
Chicago’s West Side is known as a cultural melting pot, with a blend of different communities. It’s home to the Garfield Park Conservatory, Garfield Park Lagoon and the Museum Campus West. This area features attractions like the National Museum of Mexican Art, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum and the Adler Planetarium.
For entertainment, the West Side offers plenty of options. Wicker Park is full of bars and restaurants, while East Garfield Park is famous for its jazz spots. Sports fans can catch games and events at the United Center Arena.
Nature lovers will also enjoy outdoor spaces like the Chicago River, Douglas Park and the sledding hill at Wilson Park which is great for both summer and winter fun.
The South Side
Chicago’s South Side has something for everyone, from the shopping and dining in Hyde Park to the lively nightlife in Bronzeville.
The area is filled with public parks, gardens and museums like the Museum of Science and Industry and the DuSable Museum of African American History. You can also explore historic spots like the Pullman Historic District and the Frederick C. Robie House. Popular shopping areas include State Street and the Chicago Ridge Mall.
For entertainment, visitors can enjoy the clubs and bars or catch a show at the Riviera Theatre. The South Side also offers a wide range of dining, from classic Italian in Little Italy to top-notch Asian cuisine in Chinatown.
With unique neighborhoods like the peaceful Beverly and the busy Woodlawn, the South Side is full of character and variety.
5. Navigating Public Transportation
Chicago has a well-connected public transportation system made up of buses, trains from the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), the Metra commuter rail and Pace suburban buses.
- CTA ‘L’ trains: The ‘L’ is the busiest transit system in the Midwest, providing around 1.7 million rides each day. It’s a key part of the city’s transportation, taking people to downtown attractions, popular neighborhoods and the far north, south, east and west parts of the city.
- Metra commuter rail: This system has eight lines connecting Chicago to its suburbs. Pace buses serve even more areas, covering over 700 communities across six counties in northern Illinois.
- Bicycles: The Divvy bike-sharing service has 5,800 bikes and 580 rental stations around the city. Divvy bikes can be used with CTA routes, making it easy to combine bike rides with buses or trains. There are also plenty of bike paths for recreational or commuting cyclists, offering access to parks, workplaces and more.
6. Chicago’s Job Market Opportunities
According to We Will Chicago, the city has one of the most diverse economies in the country, with no single industry making up more than 14% of its economy.
Chicago is home to the second-highest number of Fortune 500 companies, making it a strong business hub. Here are a few reasons why:
- Transportation, Distribution, & Logistics (TDL): Chicago leads the U.S. in TDL businesses, with over 200 start-ups launched since 2010. This industry includes trucking, rail freight and research into high-tech autonomous vehicles.
- Life Sciences & Healthcare: Chicago ranks among the top U.S. cities in this field, with many renowned scientists and biologists. The city has also seen the highest increase in venture capital funding for life sciences over the past three years.
- Tech Sector: Chicago’s tech industry is thriving, supporting TDL and Fortune 500 companies. With over 12,300 tech firms employing more than 344,000 people, the city also ranks second in the U.S. for producing computer science graduates.
7. Chicago’s Crime Rates
When looking at crime rates, it’s important to keep in mind that numbers don’t always tell the full story. While Chicago’s crime stats might seem high, the city is actually safer than 9% of U.S. cities.
In fact, it didn’t make it onto Neighborhood Scout’s 2022 list of the Top 100 Most Dangerous Cities. When it comes to murder rates, Chicago ranks seventh in the nation, behind places like St. Louis, New Orleans and Baltimore. So, is Chicago really dangerous?
Much of Chicago’s crime involves violent offenses such as homicides, rapes and robberies, while property crimes like burglary and car thefts are less common. As with any big city, the risk of crime can vary based on the area you live in. According to the stats, the chance of being a victim of a violent crime in Chicago is about 1 in 103, depending on the neighborhood.
8. Retirement in Chicago
Chicago’s Area Agency on Aging is focused on providing a great quality of life for seniors. Eligible seniors can access benefits through more than 70 programs and enjoy free activities at dedicated senior centers in the city.
For living options, retirees can choose from a variety of senior housing including independent and assisted living communities. Chicago also offers top-notch healthcare with world-class hospitals like Northwestern Memorial, University of Chicago Medical Center and Lurie Children’s Hospital, ensuring retirees have access to excellent medical care.
9. Quality Education in Chicago
Whether you’re interested in public or private schools, or higher education Chicago offers excellent educational options.
Chicago Public Schools
Chicago is well-known for its strong public education system. The Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is the third-largest school district in the U.S., serving over 400,000 students across 612 schools. CPS focuses on helping every student succeed and preparing them for college and careers. Its curriculum covers a wide range of subjects including arts, science, math, social studies and physical education. Around 63% of CPS students go on to pursue higher education.
Chicago Private Schools
Chicago has a variety of private schools, including religious-based and general education institutions. Popular schools like Latin School, Francis W. Parker School and DePaul College Prep are known for their high academic standards. The city also has charter schools, offering personalized learning experiences. No matter what type of private school you’re looking for, Chicago has plenty of options.
Chicago Colleges & Universities
Chicago is home to many top universities and colleges offering a range of undergraduate, graduate and professional programs. Notable schools include the University of Chicago, DePaul University, Illinois Institute of Technology, Northwestern University and Loyola University Chicago. There are also smaller colleges like the City Colleges of Chicago which offer associate degrees, certificates and transfer programs.
10. Chicago’s Culinary Scene
Chicago is a well-known food destination, famous for dishes like the Chicago-style hot dog (served without ketchup). The city boasts 24 Michelin-starred restaurants, with nine located in the West Loop and Fulton Market areas.
Here are a few notable Michelin-starred spots:
- Goosefoot: Run by Chris and Nina Nugent in Lincoln Square, this BYO restaurant has earned one Michelin star. Nearby, their market, Goosefoot Food and Wine offers a more affordable five-course French- and Italian-inspired tasting menu.
- Oriole: Located in the West Loop, Oriole is led by Executive Chef Noah Sandoval and Pastry Chef Genie Kwon. It offers a tasting-menu-only experience that combines creative cuisine with warm hospitality.
- EL Ideas: In Douglas Park, EL Ideas serves experimental tasting menus including unique dishes like french fries and ice cream. For takeout, their offshoot, Boxcar BBQ, serves delicious chicken and ribs.
To explore the local food scene, you can check out Eater’s Guide for top dining spots. Craft beer fans should also visit the city’s 20 best taprooms. Throughout the year, Chicago hosts food events like the massive Taste of Chicago (the world’s largest food festival), Craft Beer Week in May and the Lincoln Park Wine Fest in October.
11. Parks & Recreation in Chicago
Chicago has plenty of beautiful parks where residents can relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Millennium Park
Opened in 2004, Millennium Park is located in the heart of the city. It offers green spaces, gardens, art installations and an outdoor concert stage. There’s something for everyone, from ice skating in the winter to farmer’s markets and various activities throughout the year.
Wicker Park
At the center of Wicker Park is the Wicker Park Field House built in the 1930s, offering fitness facilities, recreation programs and meeting spaces. The park is also home to famous murals including the Milky Way Mural and the Meguro Mural.
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park offers sports fields, tennis courts, jogging paths, playgrounds, picnic areas and access to Lake Michigan. It also features an outdoor theater, the Lincoln Park Zoo and various art installations, monuments and gardens.
12. Activities & Things to Do in Chicago
Whether you’re into outdoor fun, entertainment or cultural experiences, Chicago has plenty to offer.
Theater & Events
Chicago is home to famous live shows like the Second City improv troupe and the Steppenwolf Theatre Company. You can also catch Broadway-style productions at the Goodman Theatre and performances at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.
Art Galleries
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the city’s oldest and most respected galleries, showcasing art from around the world. There are also many smaller, independent galleries across the city, featuring street art, sculpture, fashion and photography.
Music Festivals
Chicago hosts many exciting festivals throughout the year. Popular summer events include the Chicago Blues Festival, Lollapalooza, the World Music Festival and the Chicago Jazz Festival. The Chicago Cultural Center also hosts year-round activities celebrating art and culture.
Museums & Attractions
The Shedd Aquarium is a longtime favorite, offering exhibits of marine life from around the world. Other popular museums include The Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, Museum of Science and Industry and the Chicago History Museum.
Shopping Destinations
The Magnificent Mile on North Michigan Avenue is a top shopping destination, with many stores and restaurants. State Street, home to the historic Marshall Field’s is another popular spot. Other favorites include Water Tower Place, Navy Pier and the shops at North Bridge.
13. Chicago Sports Teams
Whether you’re watching live at a stadium or cheering from a local sports bar, supporting Chicago’s teams is a fun and exciting experience.
- Chicago Cubs: One of the oldest and most well-known teams in Major League Baseball.
- Chicago White Sox: Known for their tough style and passionate fans, with one of the best ballparks.
- Chicago Bears: Football fans show their loyalty at Soldier Field especially when facing rivals like the Green Bay Packers.
- Chicago Blackhawks: Hockey fans expect excellence from this team, which has won three Stanley Cups in recent years.
- Chicago Bulls: Chicagoans fondly remember the dominant ’90s Bulls era, led by Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen or Dennis Rodman and hope for more success in the future.
A Chicago Moving Checklist
A moving checklist can help you stay organized and make the process smoother. Here are a few tips for moving to Chicago:
- Update your voter registration.
- Register your car and update your driver’s license by visiting the Illinois Secretary of State/DMV website.
- If your car is four years or older, it will need a gas emission test every two years in Illinois.
- Don’t forget to forward your mail with the United States Postal Service (USPS). This won’t update your address everywhere, so make sure to notify important contacts of your new address.
Pros & Cons of Moving to Chicago
If you’re wondering, “Should I move to Chicago?” here’s a quick overview of the pros and cons.
Pros:
- Job opportunities: Chicago has a strong economy with plenty of career options for newcomers.
- Cultural diversity: The city offers rich cultural experiences with world-class museums, art galleries and festivals.
- Unique food: From Italian beef sandwiches to Garrett’s popcorn, there’s no shortage of delicious food in Chicago.
- Music scene: Chicago is famous for its jazz and blues venues and attracts top performers.
- Beautiful architecture: Walking down Michigan Avenue, you’ll see some of the most stunning buildings.
Cons:
- Cost of living: Chicago can be expensive, with high rent prices compared to other cities.
- Cold winters: Winters in Chicago are cold, with heavy snow at times.
- Traffic congestion: Busy streets and highways can lead to delays for commuters.
- Unpredictable weather: Chicago’s weather can change quickly, so be ready for anything.
Get Ready to Relocate to Chicago
Chicago offers plenty to its residents, from efficient public transportation to amazing attractions. Moving to a big city like Chicago might seem overwhelming but with the right preparation, it can be a smooth process.
By staying organized and keeping a positive mindset, you’ll be able to enjoy all the wonderful things the Windy City has to offer.
Need help with your move? Chicago Movers Near Me provides full moving services to help you pack and transport your belongings with ease.
FAQs
What should I know before moving to the Chicago area?
Before moving to Chicago, consider the weather (cold winters and warm summers), cost of living, job market and the best neighborhoods to suit your lifestyle.
How do I plan a move from Chicago to Milwaukee?
Moving from Chicago to Milwaukee is a short distance, about 90 miles. Hiring a reliable moving company, planning ahead for traffic and scheduling your move during off-peak hours can help make the transition smooth.
What should I consider when moving to Atlanta from Chicago?
Moving to Atlanta from Chicago means adjusting to a warmer climate, different job markets and exploring neighborhoods that fit your lifestyle. Hiring a long-distance moving company is recommended for a hassle-free experience.
How do I organize a move from Chicago to Nashville?
Moving to Nashville from Chicago involves careful planning including selecting a long-distance mover, coordinating moving dates and familiarizing yourself with Nashville’s neighborhoods and amenities.
Where can I find affordable moving services in Chicago?
Many affordable moving companies in Chicago offer competitive rates. Look for reviews, ask for quotes and check for any special discounts to get the best deal.
What’s the best way to move from New York to Chicago?
Moving from New York to Chicago requires hiring a reliable long-distance moving company, decluttering to reduce moving costs and scheduling your move during off-peak times for better rates.
Which long-distance moving companies in Chicago are recommended?
Some reputable long-distance moving companies in Chicago include Chicago Movers Near Me, STI Movers and Chicago Moovers. Be sure to get quotes from multiple companies to compare services and pricing.
What should I consider when moving back to Chicago?
If you’re moving back to Chicago, consider how the city has changed especially in terms of housing prices, job opportunities and updated public transportation routes.
Where can I buy moving boxes in Chicago?
Moving boxes can be purchased from local hardware stores, or online retailers like Amazon and Home Depot. Some movers also offer box rental services.
How should I plan a move from Chicago to Dallas?
Moving from Chicago to Dallas requires hiring a long-distance moving company, packing efficiently and preparing for the warmer Texas climate. Be sure to coordinate logistics early for a smooth move.
Who are reliable movers for Dallas to Houston relocations?
For a move from Dallas to Houston, trusted moving companies include STI Movers, Chicago Moovers, and Chicago Movers Near Me. Be sure to read reviews and request quotes to find the right service for you.
Where can I find moving help in Chicago?
Moving help in Chicago can be found through platforms like TaskRabbit, HireAHelper and through local moving companies that offer labor-only services.
Can I move to Chicago with a car?
Yes, you can move to Chicago with a car but be aware of parking restrictions especially in downtown Chicago areas. You may need a residential parking permit in certain neighborhoods.
What should I know before moving from LA to Chicago?
Moving from LA to Chicago involves a significant climate change, with colder winters and more affordable living costs. Be prepared for a long-distance move and the cultural differences between the two cities.
