5 Pros and Cons of Living in Chicago

There are pros and cons to living in any city, and Chicago is no exception. Chicago has many pros, such as its affordability, rich, diverse culture, and public transportation, but has cons such as harsh, cold winters and high crime.

In this guide, we’ll cover the pros and cons of living in Chicago, as well as key considerations for the cost of living, safety, job market, and culture.

Note: We used internal Apartment List data and cross-referenced with neighborhood data from Rent.com to give you the most accurate snapshot of rents across our Chicago neighborhood picks as of September 2025. Crime grades are from CrimeGrade.org, and school ratings are from Niche.com.*

Key Insights

• Chicago’s citywide average rent as of September 2025 is $2,564 across all rental unit types.
• One-bedroom apartments cost an average of $2,348, and two-bedroom apartments cost around $2,974 per month.
• Chicago is an affordable large city in the U.S. with a cost of living only 5.7% higher than the U.S. average and 12.8% higher than the Illinois average.
• Currently, Chicago has a C- crime grade.

Quick Facts About Chicago

1. Pro: Affordable Large U.S. City

Chicago is one of the most affordable large cities in the U.S., with a cost 5.7% higher than the national average. Many renters move to the Windy City from higher cost-of-living cities like New York, Dallas, and Los Angeles.

According to MIT's Living Wage Calculator, Chicago residents should earn at least $51,752 per year, which aligns with the Census data showing that Chicago residents earn a median household income of $74,474.

2. Con: Dark, Harsh Winters

Many northern U.S. cities experience harsh winters, but Chicago takes it a step further with cold, harsh winds blowing through the city. Many Chicagoans cite the freezing winters as a motivating factor for moving.

In the winter months, such as December and January, the average low temperatures range from 22°F to 27°F, with highs of 33°F to 37°F.

3. Pro: Multiple Public Transit Options

Residents of Chicago have access to various public transportation options, such as the CTA train, bus, regional Metra train, and Chicago water taxi. While some journeys from north to south may take up to two to three hours, many residents can use public transit and get to their destination within an hour.

Other transit options, like the Divvy bike share program, make it easier for residents to get around the city.

4. Con: Higher Risk of Crime (Compared to Some US Cities)

Unfortunately, Chicago is notorious for its high crime rates. While crime does vary from street to street, the city's crime grade of C- highlights why many renters may be hesitant to live in the city. In contrast, New York has a B- crime grade.

While the crime rates may be higher than in other cities, the city has seen a downward trend in reported incidents from 2023 to 2024. Data from the Chicago Police Department and the University of Chicago Crime Lab shows that violent crime is down 25% year-over-year (through May) and property crime is down 11%.

5. Pro: Diversity & Cultures

Chicago has a diverse group of residents, with neighborhoods such as Chinatown, Little Italy, Pilsen, Bronzeville, and Greektown. In each culturally diverse area, residents own businesses and serve food from their respective cultures. Chinatown is one of the most popular areas of the city, where Chicagoans can find authentic dishes such as Szechuan and Cantonese.

The Field Museum showcases Chicago’s cultural heritage, and festivals like the Taste of Chicago honor diverse cultures and influences.

6. Con: Competitive Housing Market

Renters in Chicago report difficulties when searching for new rental units. Finding a new apartment is difficult, but so is finding a place that’s within budget for many renters.

For those hoping to find an apartment fast, we recommend going to viewings with the intention of signing a lease during the visit. You’ll need to bring all forms and documents with you so you can sign a lease and secure the apartment.

In competitive markets, we recommend using Apartment List’s search tools to your advantage. Set filters for the budget, commute time, or pet-friendly places, and you’ll only see places that match what you’re looking for.

Is Chicago a Good Place to Live?

Yes, Chicago is a diverse, vibrant city with incredible food and indoor and outdoor activities. One-bedroom apartments average around $2,348, while two-bedrooms are closer to $2,974. These are well above the national averages of $1,778 and $2,219, but renters can shop around Chicago’s neighborhoods to find more affordable areas. Rich diversity, nearby nature, and family-friendly neighborhoods draw in new residents.

What’s it Like Living in Chicago?

Chicago is a big city with big city energy. Compared to other large U.S. cities, it has affordable housing (although competitive), an international airport, endless entertainment options and good food.

On the weekend, residents can visit the Art Institute of Chicago, stroll through Shedd Aquarium, visit a nearby comedy club like The Second City, catch a game at Wrigley Field or cheer for the Chicago White Sox.

Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods offer residents different opportunities. In Wicker Park and Fulton River, renters are closer to dining in walkable neighborhoods, while those living in Lakeview or River North are more family-friendly, while still having big-city amenities.

What’s the Culture Like in Chicago?

Chicago is a melting pot of cultures, from Italian to Chinese to Latin/Hispanic and more. Local museums include the Field Museum and the Art Institute of Chicago, and residents can also enjoy one of the over 100 craft breweries. Explore galleries for new artists in areas like River North and Pilsen.

Chicago has something for everyone, and is a city of comfort food and has more blue-collar vibes than other major cities.

What’s the Cost of Living in Chicago?

Chicago’s cost of living is currently 5.7% higher than the U.S. average and 12.8% higher than the Illinois average, which is very affordable for renters for such a major U.S. city.

MIT’s Living Wage Calculator estimates an individual should earn $51,752 per year (before taxes) to live comfortably in Chicago. Housing accounts for the largest portion at an estimated $16,846, and the second highest cost to consider is transportation at $9,253 per year.

Data for cost-of-living categories in Chicago:

How Is the Job Market in Chicago?

While Chicago usually has a robust, strong market, there appears to be a downward trend. Labor market information highlights that many Chicago industries have been hit with job loss, and the professional and business services industry lost 23,400 jobs.

Major employers in the city include Chicago Public Schools, Advocate Health System, and the City of Chicago. Key industries include manufacturing, education, transportation, insurance, and publishing.

Unemployment for 2025 hovers between 4.9% to 5.3% which is higher than the U.S. average unemployment rate during the same period, which sat between 4% to 4.3%.

How Safe Is Chicago?

Chicago's crime grade is C- and is well-known for its crime rates. Some Chicago neighborhoods are safer than others, with Lake View East and Lincoln Park ranking at the top for safety score.

According to data from the Chicago Police Department and the University of Chicago Crime Lab, violent crime is down ~25% compared to 2024, and property crime has dropped ~11% year-over-year, homicides dropped 32% (lowest since May 2014), and shooting incidents are down 32%, shooting victims down 41% — the lowest levels since 2018.

What Are Schools Like in Chicago?

Chicago has excellent K-12 institutions and top-rated universities. Some of the best high schools include Lake Forest Academy, Walter Payton College Preparatory High School, and Northside College Preparatory High School.

For higher education, the University of Chicago, the University of Illinois Chicago, and DePaul University draw students nationwide.

Is Chicago a Good Place to Raise a Family?

Chicago is a family-friendly city with great schools, big-city amenities, and access to nature and outdoor activities. Neighborhoods like Uptown, River North, and Lakeview offer the best access to family-friendly amenities. Chicago families also benefit from the many museums, cultural attractions, aquariums, and zoos.

What Are Some Popular Neighborhoods in Chicago?

Chicago offers renters a wide range of neighborhoods to suit their lifestyle, from bustling downtown quarters to quiet, family-friendly suburbs.

Here’s a look at average rent prices in some of the city’s most popular spots:

Is Living in Chicago Right for You?

If you’re debating the pros and cons of Chicago and aren’t sure if it’s the right fit for you, here’s how you can make an informed decision. If you don’t mind harsh winters, love culturally diverse neighborhoods and food, and are seeking affordability in a big city, then Chicago may be right for you.

Ready to move to Chicago? You can take Apartment List’s personalized quiz to get personalized matches.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Chicago

What are the downsides of living in Chicago?

Some residents may have long commutes on public transportation, and certain areas of the city are less safe. The city also has long, harsh winters, which make it challenging to get around during the winter months.

Why are people moving to Chicago?

Most new residents move to Chicago for job opportunities or to enjoy big-city living at an affordable price.

What are the biggest risks of living in Chicago?

One of the biggest risks of living in Chicago is the cold, dark winters. If you can’t handle the cold, then Chicago may not be right for you.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Chicago?

According to MIT’s Living Wage Calculator, an individual should earn $51,752 per year to live comfortably in Chicago.