Chicago the third most populous city but is only a third the size of New York City Population. However, it still has many advantages. We will review and compare many things that make these two cities great and see which one is right for you.

Cost of Living

First on our list to compare is the cost of living in Chicago vs. New York. New York City is notoriously expensive. In many neighborhoods of New York, the cost of living is so high that people cannot pay for housing by themselves.

For those looking to save a buck, the windy city is the more affordable city when compared to New York City. Living expenses in NYC are 85% higher than they are in Chicago.

The average cost of groceries and transportation is also more expensive in New York than in Chicago. But the biggest difference is housing. Chicago, compared to New York is much more affordable. The median sale price of a single-family unit in New York is $755k, while in Chicago, the average cost is $328K.

It is important to keep in mind that the median household income in New York is also higher at $92K, while in Chicago is only $62K. If the cost of living is an important factor to you, then Chicago might be the better choice. In the cost of living category, Chicago is a clear winner.

Weather

While the weather in neither city is perfect, New York City’s climate tends to be slightly favorable overall. Both cities have distinct seasons, with cold winters and hot summers. However, Chicago generally has harsher winter conditions, while the summer temperatures are equal between cities.

New York experiences a “modified maritime” climate, which is when the air is warm and moist because of the Atlantic Ocean. Chicago sits on Lake Michigan, so it’s not as effective in warming the air; downtown Chicago sees more extreme temperatures during winter due to its continental climate. Also, New York only averages about 25 inches of snowfall per year, whereas Chicago averages 35.

The difference in weather is mostly based on location. Chicago received Northern winds from Canada, while New York gets some warmth from the Atlantic ocean not offered by Lake Michigan.

Both Cities give you four beautiful seasons, but if you prefer slightly warmer climates all year round, New York might be the better option. I would give New York a slight edge in the weather category.

Job Opportunities

In terms of employment opportunities, both cities offer a wide variety of choices.

New York City is home to some of the largest companies in the world and offers plenty of prestige for those looking for it. On the other hand, Chicago is a smaller city with plenty of up-and-coming startups and vibrant business communities.

There is no clear winner when it comes to job opportunities. But, New York City may be better for those looking for higher positions with larger companies, while Chicago could be better for entrepreneurs looking to start their own businesses.

If you are looking to make your mark in the world, then New York is probably the better option for you. If you prefer more diverse job opportunities with better work-life balance, then Chicago might be your place.

Cuisine and Lifestyle

The food in both cities is exquisite, with countless five-star restaurants and cafes. The food scene is great in both city center.

New Yorkers and Chicagoans often debate which city has the better food. Still, two dishes, in particular, tend to start a fight: New York-style pizza vs. Chicago deep-dish pizza and the original New York hot dog vs. the Chicago style hot dogs.

New York City has more options because of its size; however, Chicago’s cuisine might be fresher. The midwest distributes many of its products through the Chicago transportation network, eventually ending in New York.

If you think fresh food and produce is a major factors when purchasing what to eat. You are more likely to find fresher produce at a relatively lower cost in Chicago than someone living in New York.

As far as lifestyle, New York City offers more options in the way of nightlife and entertainment, and food options. There are plenty of diverse areas to explore, while Chicago can feel a bit quieter after dark.

Chicago offers living near miles of trails, beaches, and picturesque buildings and several public parks. In contrast, New York City provides residents with access to Central Park and the opportunity to live in the country’s busiest metropolis.

Ultimately, both cities offer unique lifestyle choices that appeal to different people. Whether you prefer the fast-paced life of New York or the relatable charm of the Windy City, there is something for everyone in both cities.

This, in my opinion, is a tie depending on what you prefer in the pace of life and food choices.

Cleanliness

Downtown Chicago and New York both suffer from the same urban problems. Pollution, littering, and homelessness are issues that both cities deal with. Both of these cities have their fair share of problems, but they’re still two of the best places in the world.

Coming in after New York, Los Angeles, and Riverside-San Bernardino, Chicago was titled the fourth dirtiest city in America.

However, being in both cities, I can tell you from experience that New York City tends to be slightly dirtier due to the sheer volume of people living and working near one another. Chicago, on the other hand, is cleaner, with the city focusing on recycling efforts and keeping its streets clean.

Smelling and seeing both cities firsthand, although close, Chicago is the clear winner in this category.

Crime Rates

Chicago vs. New York, which one would you guess to be safer? It’s probably easy to guess that Chicago has a higher crime rate than New York City. However, some areas in both cities have safer or more dangerous neighborhoods. In this section, we will cover the homicide crime rate.

Chicago has a homicide rate of 29.3 per 100,000 people, while New York’s is only 5.7 per 100,000. New York has the lowest homicide rates of any major city, including Los Angeles. Chicago score worst than Los Angles, but cities with higher homicide rates than Chicago include Milwaukee, St. Louis, Cleveland, and Detroit.

Obviously, city-wide averages don’t tell the entire story– it’s important to research each city’s neighborhoods individually and make an informed decision on where you feel safest.

Based purely on statistics, New York is a much safer city than Chicago. Although crime has increased since the pandemic began, New York is still lower than most other major cities. Chicago, on the other hand, reported 800 homicides in 2021 alone and continues to struggle with violent crime.

New York is a clear winner in this category.

City Culture

The biggest difference in city culture is that New York is more densely populated than Chicago. This means that more people are in less space, leading to a fast-paced life that many find invigorating.

Chicago, on the other hand, has a slower pace of life and more spread-out neighborhoods and suburbs. People enjoy walking from one end of the city to the other on a sunny day and exploring the many neighborhoods that make up the city.

When it comes to diversity, both cities are equally welcoming to all walks of life. However, New York is a bigger city and provides a richer array of cultural experiences than Chicago. Both cities are melting pot with a diverse food scene.

At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference when it comes to culture. If you prefer busy city life, then New York is probably the better option. If you are looking for more relaxed vibes, then Chicago might be your place.

This Category is a tie, but you can give a winner based on your own preference.

Commute Times

Something that has become evident since the pandemic started is how much time Americans waste commuting. Both New York and Chicago have great public transportation systems, but which one is better?

The average commute in Chicago is 35 minutes, while New Yorkers spend approximately 41 minutes commuting. New York is incredibly congested, although offering one of the best transportation networks in the country. Trains, buses, and cabs are abundant, which can make for many commuting options.

Almost half of all Chicago residents commute by car, whereas 78% of New Yorkers use public transportation. Although Chicago’s suburbs are more directly accessible to the city, New York workers typically live near neighboring cities.

Chicago is less congested than New York but has a smaller public transport network. New York transportation is accessible 24/7, while Chicago offers only limited options.

Overall, New York is known for its fast-paced lifestyle, while Chicago has more relaxed vibes and shorter commute times. Neither will be a great fit if you are looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of city life.

This category is pretty close but Chicago has a slight edge if you are looking for an easier commute.

Quality of Life

Numbeo’s Quality of Life Index shows that Chicago has a higher quality of life than New York. This index was generated using data on crime rates, employment, climate, healthcare quality, housing prices, and traffic and pollution levels.

Compared to other cities, Chicago scored high, with a score of 149. New York, on the other hand, only received a moderate score of 136. The primary reason for the difference in scores is due to the large discrepancy between the cost of living and average income in New York City vs. Chicago.

In the quality of life index Chicago is a clear winner.

Skylines

Both skylines are unique and beautiful in their own way. New York is known for its iconic buildings, including the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. Chicago is known as the birthplace of the skyscraper and is also home to incredible buildings, including the Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower) and John Hancock Center.

NYC skyline is one of the most popular skylines in the world, with its iconic buildings and lights. The big apple is a crawling metropolis and has more than just big buildings. The Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn bridge park, midtown Manhattan, lower Manhattan, and many others I am leaving out. New York consists of five boroughs, all offering impressive scenery.

Chicago’s skyline is more subdued but still offers a beautiful view of Lake Michigan and the city’s stunning architecture. The big City also offers Lincoln park, millennium park, the field museum, and Navy Pier.

At night, both cities light up with a stunning display. In New York, you can see the lights of the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building.

This category is tough to judge, but i prefer the Chicago skyline over New York. The Chicago skyline may be small, but it is a beautiful example of urban planning. A mix of old and new architecture, historic buildings, and large modern structures make it a sight to see.

No matter which skyline you prefer, New York and Chicago have something to offer. Whether it’s to take pictures or admire the views,

This is a tough one to judge, but I have been to many major US cities, and in my opinion, Chicago has the best skyline in the United States.

Chicago Vs. New York Pros and Cons

Pros Of Living in Chicago

– Low cost of living

– Great food and cultural options

– Easy access to beaches, forests, and other natural attractions

– Vibrant art scene

– Excellent schools

– Affordable housing

Cons of Living In Chicago

– Cold and snowy winters

– Traffic congestion

– Slow public transit system

– Limited job opportunities

– Low-quality housing in certain areas.

Pros Of Living In New York

– Diverse cultures and people

– Excellent food options

– Plenty of entertainment options

– Access to top universities

– 24/7 transportation options

– Variety of job opportunities

Cons of Living In New York City

– High cost of living

– Limited space and high housing prices

– Overcrowded streets and public transit system

– Fast-paced lifestyle

Conclusion

Chicago vs. New York, At the end of the day, it is important to consider all of the factors that are important to you when making a decision about which great city to live in.

If you are looking for a diverse and metropolitan city, then New York would be a great choice. If you prefer a slower-paced life with easy access to suburbs, then Chicago would be better suited for you.

Whichever city you choose, make sure to research the neighborhoods carefully before making your final decision.

If you are looking to relocate to the Chicago area and are looking for a safe place to call home. You can call, text, or set up a call to discuss your options with a local real estate agent like me. We will be able to help you find the right area that fits your needs and budget.

No matter where you decide to live, each city has a lot to offer and can give you an amazing experience. In my opinion, I think Chicago is the best city, but it might be a bit big. So make sure to do some research before making your final decision. Good luck!

There are many great large cities in America, but Chicago is, without a doubt, the best. Here are five reasons why:

1. Affordability

The city is affordable compared to other large cities like New York or Los Angeles.

Chicago is the third largest city in the united states, but it is a clear winner in the best bang for the buck category. Chicago is one of the most budget-friendly cities to live in, making it easier for people to start a career or family.

To maintain a comparable lifestyle in New York as someone who earns $75,000/year in Chicago, you would need to earn an annual salary of $117,000 in New York City.

In Los Angeles, you would have an annual salary of $201,000 to maintain a similar living standard as someone earning $123K a year in Chicago.

Overall, New York is 57% more expensive than Chicago, and Los Angeles is 64% more expensive than Chicago.

A recent surge in remote workers has made the cost of living in Chicago even more attractive. Few cities have so much to offer at relatively low prices. If you’re looking for an urban environment with a jaw-dropping skyline but don’t want to break the bank, Chicago is the perfect place.

2. Diverse Cultures and Activities

There is something for everyone in Chicago. Whether you’re a foodie, sports fan, or culture lover, you will find plenty to do in this city!

Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza and hot dogs. Still, the city also offers an amazing variety of culinary options that range from classic American to immigrant-influenced delicacies. The city’s craft beer scene has been growing rapidly in recent years, with dozens of local breweries and taprooms offering a wide variety of beers.

Chicago is also home to some of the best sports teams in the country, including the Cubs, White Sox, Bears, Bulls, and Blackhawks. Games are often filled with passionate fans who cheer their teams on through every inning or buzzer. Chicago has a team for every professional sports league, no matter what you love to watch.

Art & culture are also celebrated in Chicago, with dozens of museums and cultural hubs across the city. The Art Institute and Field Museum are just two of the many options that bring history to life. There’s also a variety of public artworks, live music venues, theater productions, and more throughout the city.

Along with sports and food, Chicago has one of the most diverse populations in the country. Offering many diverse festivals and neighborhoods to explore. Chicago has a large Chinatown, Greek Town, Little Italy, and Little India, also including Polish Communities, Mexican communities, and Puerto Rican communities, to name a few.

If you are foody or love to explore different cultures, it will be hard to find a similar city with so much to offer in the US.

3. History and Architechture

I’ve had the chance to explore many other major U.S. cities, and I can confidently say that none have a skyline as impressive as Chicago’s. It looks like it belongs in a movie–which is why so many big-budget films and TV shows are filmed here. Gotham City has been portrayed on screen multiple times, but no other city can do it quite as Chicago can.

Chicago is known as the second city, and it was designed to correct the mistakes made in New York. In 1871, a devastating fire dispersed over 3 square miles of damage and killed over 300 people… but instead of discouraging growth, it only pushed the citizens to rebuild and make their Chicago stronger than ever before.

City planning has made Chicago one of the most livable cities in the US. The city is designed with a grid system, making it easy to navigate your way around. From its public transportation to its infrastructure and walkability, Chicago has what everyone needs for city life.

The city also has numerous bike lanes for cyclists and miles of parks, beaches, and waterfront trails for outdoor lovers. If you love to enjoy an urban landscape with tasteful public places and parks, Chicago has some of the best in the world.

The architecture in Chicago is also world-class, from the historic buildings on Michigan Avenue to The Willis Tower, or Sears Tower as we locals call it.

Willis tower is the second of the tallest buildings in the western hemisphere and North America but it is only one of many impressive buildings in Chicago. Chicago has a jaw-dropping lakefront, a river walk, and a magnificent mile with lots of lively activities and stores.

Nightlife in Chicago is one of the best in America! There’s something for everyone, from rooftop bars to brewery tours, jazz clubs, and more. As a major city with a nightlife that caters to all sorts of tastes and budgets, you don’t have to look far.

4. Transportation Options

Chicago has been long known as the connection to the west and the transportation hub of the United States.

It was originally settled because of the advantages of location connecting the great lakes to the Mississippi river. Still, it quickly transformed into a railroad hub, with extensive road systems and also home to the fourth largest international airport in the world.

It’s the starting point of Route 66, America’s first cross-country route before the modern Interstate Highways System and currently the largest rail hub in North America. The Chicagoland area developed many modern transportation options, offering travelers and commuters endless options.

The Chicago Public transportation or CTA system is also one of the best in the country. An extensive network of buses, trains, and public transportation also serves the city. Making it easy to get around the city or fly anywhere in the world without connecting flights.

If you want to be centrally located, Chicago is the best of the midwest!

5. Higher Education and Employment Options

Chicago is home to some of the best universities and colleges in the United States, including the University of Chicago, Loyola, Depaul, Northwestern, and Illinois Institute of Technology, to name a few.

With such a vast selection of higher education options, it’s no surprise that Chicago has become an educational hub. Chicago is a blue-collar hard-working demographic, but Chicago was also recently recognized as one of the best places to find a tech position.

Illinois is one of the top producers of computer science degrees in the United States, making Chicago a hotspot for talented and tech-savvy employees. Illinois has the third most tech career opportunities in the country. It is quickly becoming part of the conversation of the best cities for Tech workers.

Conclusion

Chicago offers all the amenities of a large city combined with a Midwestern sensibility and affordability that is unmatched. If you’re looking for a place to call home, Chicago should be on your list. Check out some of these amazing places in the city, or explore our website for more information on neighborhoods, things to do, and much more.

If you are looking to buy rent or sell a home in the Chicagoland area, make sure to give us a call. We would love you help you make a move.

The cost of living in Chicago is higher than the US average. Chicago is typically the 11th most high-priced city in the country, ranking alongside places like Minneapolis, Boston, and San Diego.

The Chicago cost of living is significantly lower than that of other major cities, such as New York or San Francisco, and it nevertheless offers many of the same attractions and conveniences. In reality, the two top cities from which immigrants migrated to Chicago are New York and San Francisco.

This is a comprehensive list of my average monthly expenses and salary so that you can gauge how much it would cost to live in Chicago if you wish to do so.

What are Chicago’s Housing Costs?

Not shockingly, when understanding how much Chicago costs, your main monetary worry will most likely be housing costs. Your safe place should be where you live, so housing should be a top priority in hunting where to live.

Chicago’s housing market has a median sale price of $290,000. Chicago homes are less expensive compared to the nation’s median purchase price for houses, which jumped to $295,300.

One of the key reasons Chicago’s home prices are lower than other major cities on average is the city’s excess housing supply, which has lowered home values. Chicago real estate market hasn’t appreciated much in value in comparison to the rest of the nation, with a lower appreciation margin of 2.20%.

Now can be an excellent time to purchase and secure a lower price if you’re wanting to relocate.

In Chicago, Should I Rent or Buy?

The Windy City is a pricey city to rent in. Chicago apartments will cost an average rent of $1,826 per month. This represents a 1.15 percent increase from the previous year. The national average for rent is $1,588 for a one-bedroom apartment. However, the price is significantly higher in Chicago.

Chicago is an excellent value when you compare rental costs to those in other large cities like San Francisco, where the rental rate is $3,500, or New York, where you’ll pay $3,000 per month.

Prices in some Chicago suburbs can be comparable to those in San Francisco or New York. Rent in River North will cost you $2,600 per month, and rent in Streeterville can cost you $2,566. Both the Austin and The Island areas have rent prices that are a mere $562 per month.

The cost of a home is currently lower than the national average, thus, purchasing one might be preferable to renting.

However, Chicago has one of the high real estate taxes, coming in second only to New Jersey at 2.27%. In comparison to a state like Hawaii, where you would only spend roughly $600 to purchase the same property, you will therefore be paying on average $4,942 on a $217,500 home.

Cost of Living in Chicago and Utility Costs

Your utility costs won’t be excessive if you live in Chicago. Heating, air conditioning, water and waste costs for an average 900-square-foot flat are $150- estimated monthly costs.

In general, Chicago’s utility costs are around 7% less than the rest of the country. This makes it affordable to live in the city once you have a perfect house and a steady cash flow.

Utility prices in Chicago, like property taxes, sales taxes and other costs, differ from suburb to suburb, so you should research any area you’re considering to get an accurate estimate.

Due to Chicago’s 9% streaming service tax, internet service will set you back about $64 per month, which is more than the national average. Additionally, since cellular services are taxed at 43%, among the highest rates in the country, you’ll pay extra for your phone service.

Food Budget and Cost of Living in Chicago

Chicago is renowned for having a fantastic food culture. You should set aside some money from your budget to check out some of the city’s top restaurants. A three-course lunch at a mid-range restaurant can cost $72, whereas a meal at a cheap restaurant can cost you roughly $15.

Food Costs are on the necessity list, but a dozen eggs will cost you approximately $3.50. Chicago imposes a 0.5% restaurant tax in addition to its high 10.25% sales tax. Before offering to foot the tab for everyone’s meal, you might want to take this into account.

The price of groceries is comparable to other cities, such as Minneapolis in the Midwest. You’ll typically spend $300 each month on groceries. Though the monthly price will vary adversely depending on your consumption level.

Is a salary of $70,000 Good in Chicago?

Yes! In Chicago, a two-person family makes an average salary of $60,000. Therefore, if a single individual earns $70,000, they earn more than the average income for a household headed by one person. In Chicago, the median salary income for a household of four is barely $76,000.

Certainly. For a single individual, it’d be a cozy middle-class existence. If you and your spouse both earned that much money, you would live a very comfortable life. This can even help you cater for children or family members comfortably.

Transportation Costs and Chicago’s Cost of Living

Public transportation is a practical choice for many inhabitants in Chicago, which has the second-largest transportation system in the country. About 30% of Chicago residents choose public transit over driving a car. When analyzing Chicago’s cost of living, that can have a significant impact. Living in Chicago can lower your transportation expenses.

You will pay $105 for a monthly travel card for buses and trains. This card apply for daily transportation around the town. You will be charged $2.50 for a one-way bus or train ticket.

If you choose to travel by car, you will be subject to a Wheel Tax that is specific to Chicago. By acquiring a Chicago City Vehicle Sticker, you can pay the wheel tax. You could spend anywhere between $90.88 to $144.44 depending on the structure of your car. This program’s revenue goes toward repairing and maintaining the streets.

Additionally, you can completely avoid paying for transportation. Chicago has more than 300 miles of bicycle lanes because it was constructed with bicycling in mind. With a 23-minute commute time on average, the city has the second-highest proportion of commuters who cycle to work.

The Cost of Entertainment and Extras in Chicago

You’ll want to leave the house and tour the city, of course. You should factor entertainment costs into your budget because there are so many music and film competitions, comedy clubs, nightclubs, over 7,300 eateries, and sports events to keep you entertained.

A gym membership might increase your monthly spending by an additional $54.46 and constitute another expense if you desire fitness.

What Kind of Salary Is Necessary Given Chicago’s Cost of Living?

Chicago is among the more reasonably priced metropolitan cities, but your estimated monthly costs can mount up rapidly. Without factoring in rent, a family of four can anticipate monthly expenses of about $3,711.84. Your projected monthly expenses for a single individual total $1,030.86. For a single individual renting a one-bedroom residence, your monthly bill increases to $2,618.86 when rent is added.

Chicago residents make an average salary of $58,247 per year. A one-bedroom condo in Chicago would cost about $43,200 a year, or $21.60 an hour, to comfortably maintain. Paying expenditures could be difficult depending on your work, whether you’re a student or have any debt.

You shouldn’t, on average, spend more than 30% of your salary on rent. Your monthly income, for example, should be $3,600 if your house costs $1,200 per month.

Chicago is an excellent choice if you want to live in a big city without paying the exorbitant rents you would in New York or San Francisco. You still intend to cut your monthly spending in any way you can, of course. We hope that clarifies the query, “How much does it cost to live in Chicago?”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which City is More Affordable, California or Chicago?

Though the average pay in California is larger than in Chicago, it is less expensive to live in Chicago. How much less expensive is Chicago? Chicago’s living cost was 18.5% lower than California’s in a salar.com analysis. That represents a big difference!

2. Is living in Chicago Expensive?

Unless you contrast it with other significant American cities like San Francisco and New York. Additionally, home prices are below the national average. Chicago’s typical sales price for a residence is $273,949, which is less than the $295,300 median purchase price for a residence nationally.

Budgeting for a Chicago Move

Getting a fantastic deal on a residence is one of the finest methods to reduce your expenses. Think about partnering with a knowledgeable local realtor who can guide you through the Chicago property market. In addition to advising you on which communities best suit your needs and budget, a knowledgeable realtor can determine if renting or purchasing a home is ideal for your circumstances.

To Sum it Up

We hope we’ve provided you with a good understanding of the living costs in Chicago irrespective of your lifestyle or specific spending. As you can see Chicago isn’t much of an expensive city. Chicago cost of living is 107.4, based on the cost of living index.

We regard ourselves to be authorities in the western suburbs because we have lived there all of our lives. Before coming to the lovely city of Chicago, if you need any assistance analyzing your alternatives, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Here is also a link to the cost of living in the Chicago suburbs as a comparison.

Whatever you choose, we wish you the very greatest happiness and financial stability in your new residence.

Have inquiries? Do not hesitate to contact us.