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Is Chicago a Good Place to Live?

Chicago, railway view with city skyscrapers on background

Welcome to the “Third Coast”! Whether you’re contemplating living in Chicago, or you’re a recent transplant, you’re probably wondering if Chicago is a good place to live, and what it’s like to live in Chicago. With all the appeal of big city living coupled with a down-to-earth Midwestern ethos, living in Chicago is a great place for people looking for a balanced lifestyle that makes it possible to be among world-class architecture and institutions while living in a friendly, walkable neighborhood that fits your specific needs. Take a look at what it’s like to live in Chicago with the Skydeck.

What’s it Like to Live in Chicago?

Neighborhoods

Living in Chicago offers all the perks of city living paired with the comfort of living in a small neighborhood. While the city is generally broken into four large areas—North Side, South Side, West Side, and The Loop—those areas are broken into much smaller neighborhoods. When choosing a neighborhood, chances are you’ll find a walkable area that fits your lifestyle.

Transportation

And speaking of walking, transportation in Chicago is easier than in many other cities thanks to the world-class Chicago Transportation Association with its iconic “El” trains and so many bus lines that make it easy to live without a car. Although if you do own a car, you might want to buy a few cheap lawn chairs. Locals use them to call “dibs” on parking spaces, especially when it’s snowy.

Weather

Chicago’s weather is a bit infamous—it’s not called The Windy City for nothing. Although the windiest spot in the U.S. is actually in Oklahoma, you will experience cooled winds coming off Lake Michigan year round. While they’re welcome in the warm summer months, they can be bracing in the snowy winters. For people who enjoy cold winters and temperate summers, Chicago is a good place to live.

Cost of Living

Living in Chicago generally costs less than living in other large cities like Los Angeles or New York, especially when it comes to buying or leasing housing. As we covered, low transportation costs also make Chicago a good place to live.

Facts About Living in Chicago

Here are the demographics that give a clear idea of what it’s like to live in Chicago:

  • Population: 2,746,388 (2020)
  • Median income: $31,000 a year
  • Unemployment rate: 5.9 percent

Chicago Living is Easy and Fun!

Now that you know a little bit about what it’s like to live in Chicago, you clearly understand why we think Chicago is a great place to live! Whether you plan to live in Chicago or you’re just making a visit, see our spectacular city from a perspective unlike any other when you visit the Skydeck at Willis Center.