17 Things to Know Before Moving to Chicago, IL in 2024

Chicago, with its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and delicious deep-dish pizza, is a magnet for those seeking a dynamic and exciting place to call home. But before packing your bags and heading to the shores of Lake Michigan, there are a few things you might not know about this unique metropolis.

From fascinating historical quirks to surprising geographical oddities, this guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to navigate Chicago like a true local. So, get ready to delve into the unexpected and discover the hidden gems that make Chicago such a special place.

Moving to Chicago

1. Chicago Has a Large and Diverse Economy

Chicago has one of the world's largest and most diversified economies with a typical Gross Regional Product (GRP) of nearly $700 billion. While its unemployment rate is slightly higher than the national average at 4.2%, its abundant industries, offices, and services mean that many people come to Chicago for work or to find a job.

If you're looking to work in Chicago, be aware that leisure and hospitality are significant industries, as well as manufacturing, transportation, Information Technology, and Health Services. Depending on the type of career you're building, JPMorgan Chase, Deloitte, Boeing, United Airlines, and Ford Motors are all significant employers around the greater Chicago area.

2. Chicago Has Been Thriving Since the 17th Century

Chicago has long been a mainstay of thriving urban centers in the US. French explorers, missionaries, and fur traders arrived in the 17th century, followed by a US Army fort. By 1837, business started booming as Northern businessmen saw the real estate potential in Chicago's emerging transportation hub. A fire destroyed much of Chicago's business district in 1871, though it continued to grow rapidly as a dominant Midwestern hub for business, sports, jazz, and culture.

Chicago is home to 2.71 million people and is among the largest cities in the US, as well as the most populous city in the Midwestern United States. People from around the world relocate to Chicago, or simply visit this lakefront city. You may hear a variety of languages spoken around Chicago's diverse neighborhoods.

3. Cost of Living in Chicago Is Lower than New York City

Living in Chicago is pricier than many midwestern cities like Indianapolis, though cheaper than a metropolis like New York City. According to data from BestPlaces, the cost of living in Chicago is only 7% higher than the national average. However, PayScale estimates it to be 20%, with housing being 52% higher than the national average.

Our own data suggests that while there are definitely expensive neighborhoods in Chicago, there are a lot of more affordable options as well. Our latest rent report shows that median rent for a 1-Bedroom apartment in Chicago is currently $1,524, which is higher than many parts of the country, but much lower than NYC's $2,119 a month. So if you're looking for a more affordable but bustling metro, Chicago might be your place.

4. Sales Tax Is High

Chicago locals enjoy some flexibility when it comes to taxes. Illinois currently taxes income at a flat 4.95% rate. The sales tax rate can get pricey when you live in Chicago. The minimum combined 2021 sales tax rate for Chicago is 10.25%. This figure represents a total of state, county, and city sales tax rates.

If you're interested in homeownership, plan to spend 1.55% for an average effective property tax rate.

5. The L Train Is Great

The Chicago Transit Authority operates the L train, CTA bus service, and some surrounding suburban options. You can also hop on the Metro Rail for transportation between Chicago and the rest of the suburbs. If you live near the waterfront around Michigan Avenue, the Chicago Riverwalk, Ogilvie, or Chinatown, you can hop a water taxi to get to work.

Living in Chicago without a car isn’t challenging in the slightest if you live near public transportation. Chicago Public Transportation runs about $105 for service on the L train. You can also add in Uber, Lyft, taxi, cycling, and urban walking to make up the gaps of not having a vehicle.

Transportation will take up more of your budget than in other cities. Expect to spend about $5,149 on transportation as a single adult—families of two working adults and a child need at least $11,753.

6. Chicago Is Called "The Windy City"

Chicago lives up to its nickname of "The Windy City," although the city has evolved over time. It’s believed the name was used initially to depict locals as people who liked to brag a lot. However, Chicago's proximity along the shores of Lake Michigan makes it breezy during summers. Wind can get fierce during inclement weather, and winters are cold.

In fact, Chicago winters are notoriously brutal. The city’s coldest month is January, where temperatures dip to 0-degree average. The hottest temperatures come about in July, where temperatures around 81 degrees are common. The mild summers make Chicago a desirable place to live, work, and play, although it's essential to layer up even during warmer months.

7. The Chicago River Flows in Reverse

Believe it or not, the Chicago River doesn't follow the natural course of water flow. Originally, the river flowed from west to east, emptying into Lake Michigan, Chicago's source of drinking water. In the late 19th century, however, Chicago's rapid growth led to a major sanitation issue. Raw sewage flowed into the river, threatening the city's water supply and public health.

In a remarkable feat of engineering, the city embarked on a project to reverse the flow of the Chicago River. By constructing a series of canals and pumping stations, they diverted water from Lake Michigan into the river, sending the now-diluted effluent away from the city and towards the Mississippi River watershed. This ingenious solution, completed in 1900, not only saved Chicago from a public health crisis but also stands as a testament to the city's innovative spirit.

8. Chicago Has the Bluest Waters Outside of the Caribbean

While it might surprise you, Chicago offers the bluest waters outside of the Caribbean for several reasons. First, Lake Michigan is incredibly deep, making it naturally more blue than other, shallower lakes. Furthermore, the water is colder, meaning that it is harder for algae to grow. Finally, local governments have made concerted conservation efforts to keep Lake Michigan clean and free of pollution, which has an enormous impact on the water quality, purity, and reflective ability.

9. Chicago Has 37 Movable Bridges

With a whopping 37 bridges that lift, tilt, or swing open, Chicago boasts the most movable bridges of any city in the world. These marvels of engineering play a vital role in both river traffic and land transportation. Whether you're on a boat cruise or simply crossing the river on foot, witnessing a bridge rise to allow a passing vessel adds a touch of magic to your Chicago experience. The intricate mechanics and historical significance of these bridges make them a fascinating aspect of the city's landscape.

10. Chicago Has Great Historic Neighborhoods

Chicago offers something for everyone, from upscale high-rise living to trendy urban lifestyles. Here are some of the best Chicago neighborhoods to explore.

Bucktown

Bucktown is perfect for renters who enjoy nightlife, entertainment, and quick access to public transportation. Music lovers stop at The Hideout for art, music, poetry, and plays. Run or bike along the elevated Bloomington Trail to catch gorgeous views of the city while working up a sweat.

Hyde Park

Hyde Park is home to historic structures and has housed many famous people throughout American history, from Amelia Earhart to Chaka Khan. The neighborhood is also home to the University of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry, which is located in the last remaining building from Chicago's World Fair in 1893.

Wicker Park

Wicker Park is known for its view of the area where Milwaukee Avenue and North Avenue meet. It's similar to the Flatiron Building in New York City. However, instead of the NYC skyline, Chicagoans can admire the Chicago skyline and the city's hustle and bustle from this hipster haven.

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is more than a tourist spot. It's a robust neighborhood located around the crown jewel of the city. It's also home to the Lincoln Park zoo, the oldest free zoo in the country. For outdoor lovers, Lincoln Park features a host of trails and walkways that are perfect for taking in the changing leaves in the fall.

River North

River North is a newly revitalized area that's perfect for those who love urban living, art, and food. It's located within the Near North Side District, home to the Cold Coast and Navy Pier communities. Renters enjoy repurposed warehouses and manufacturing plants in this creative-minded community full of galleries, pubs, and coffee shops.

Read more about the best Chicago neighborhoods here.

If you're concerned about safety in your Chicago neighborhood, take simple precautions like not walking alone at night. Stay informed about crime around your community by joining a watch club.

11. Chicago Deep Dish Pizza

Chicago has long enjoyed a reputation as a famous food town. Bon Appétit Magazine even named Chicago the top food city over New York City and other worthy contenders. Chicago is home to prestigious James Beard Award winners, including Lettuce Entertain You, Sun Wah BBQ, Arun's, and Parachute.

Of course, you can't live in Chicago without adopting a love of deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs. Load up your next steamed hot dog with yellow mustard, white onions, green sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices, and pickled sport peppers. A dash of celery salt is crucial to top off your iconic Chicago hot dog.

Chicago boasts a booming cocktail scene with everything from curated concoctions to tiki-inspired drinks. Grab a drink at Time Out Market Bar, enjoy spirit-infused drinks from Scofflaw, or dance the night away with your favorite local DJs at The Whistler.

Savor the flavors of the city at the Tastes of Chicago, the world's largest food festival. Held every year in Grant Park, you'll get to savor some of the best flavors in the city while enjoying live music and performances.

12. Chicago Is Great for Outdoor Adventurers

Despite the concrete jungle reputation of Chicago, there are 570 parks in the city. Parks, green space, and trails surround Downtown Chicago. The most popular options are along with the waterfront areas, perfect for a day of jogging and cycling.

Chicago's parks are also full of gems. Famed designer Frederick Law Olmsted designed Washington Park, a gorgeous park home to the DuSable Museum, a bird and butterfly sanctuary, and a few lagoons.

You can also hit the beach without leaving the city properly. Try North Avenue Beach, 12th St Beach, Montrose Avenue Beach, and the dozens of lake trails that make a living in Chicago a unique, waterside experience. North Avenue Beach is home to 22,000 square feet of space featuring upper decks and portholes to enjoy the sparkling waterfront.

Spending time outdoors is a cornerstone of Chicago living. You'll see why they call it "the city in a garden."

13. There Are Too Many Attractions to Name

Chicago is a world-class city with endless attractions and things to do year-round. Root for the home team at Wrigley Field, which sits on the North Side of Chicago. The historic stadium was built in 1914 and has housed the Chicago Cubs for over a century.

Sears Tower, also known as Willis Tower, has 108-stories and sits 1,450 feet high. Take a tour on the Ledge Skydeck for the views, take advantage of a unique photo op, and to learn more about the tower and city's history.

The infamous Bean, or Cloud Gate, is the hallmark of public art in the heart of Chicago. The sculpture is the centerpiece of AT&T Plaza at Millennium Park in the Loop area. The reflective Bean is made of stainless steel, drawing visitors to interact with its reflective surface.

Taking in Chicago's architecture is a favorite pastime in the city. Take a self-guided walking tour and snap some shots of the Aqua Building, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Carbide and Carbon Building.

Spend a day walking around Navy Pier. Opened in 1916, the amusement area and shipping facility comprises 50 acres of gardens, venues, shops, and restaurants. There's also a 150-foot Ferris wheel and a historic carousel.

14. Chicago Sports

Chicago is a huge sports city where locals take team spirit seriously. You have your pick of the Bears, Bulls, Cubs, White Sox, Blackhawks, Sky, and Fire FC. Even if you're not a basketball fan, Chicagoans are loyal to 15-season NBA player Michael Jordan. He helped win six championships with the Chicago Bulls, and his presence is felt heavily around Chicago.

Wrigley Field is an iconic institution and has hosted the Chicago Cubs for over a hundred years. You can see a tour for yourself and learn more about the history of the stadium.

New on the Brooklyn scene, Whirlyball opened in Bucktown to bring locals bowling, laser tag, and whirly ball, all in one place. You can also find rock climbing, yoga, and more at Brooklyn Boulders Chicago.

15. Chicago Has Some of the Countries Most Renowned Universities

Chicago is ideal for higher education students. Pursue an undergrad or graduate degree in the Windy City at one of Chicago's renowned institutions.

The University of Chicago is located in the Near West community adjacent to the Chicago Loop. Some of the significant fields of study include public policy. President Obama formerly served as a professor at its Law School.

Northeastern Illinois University is a public university with 8,000 students and is a Hispanic Serving Institution. The learning and research community is known for its degrees in Speech, Psychology, Health, and Engineering.

DePaul University is the largest Catholic University in the US and a private institution in Chicago. It's known for its Business, Management, Marketing, Journalism, Arts, and Science related studies.

Loyola University is a Jesuit Catholic University known for its biology, science, nursing, psychology, marketing, and finance programs. Students who live on campus enjoy the waterfront and proximity to areas like Hartigan Beach and Tobey Prinz Beach Park.

16. Lollapalooza Was Born in Chicago

Chicago's annual Lollapalooza music festival was founded in Grant Park in 1991 before spreading to the rest of the country. Performances include rock, heavy metal, punk, electronic music, hip hop, and more. Summer dates span four days and draw thousands of attendees.

The annual Chicago Jazz Festival is a popular Labor Day Weekend tradition that helps promote jazz appreciation. The Millennium Park festival is free and features both veteran and up-and-coming jazz artists.

Runners and supporters gather at the Chicago Marathon every October. The marathon is the fourth-largest race and is a pinnacle achievement for runners.

17. Most People Moving to Chicago Are from the Midwest

Chicago is a diverse city with people moving in and out from different parts of the world. You’re in good company if you’re hoping to relocate from a nearby midwestern city. According to Apartment List's most recent migration report, the highest percentage of people moving to Chicago are from Indianapolis, Milwaukee, and Detroit.

There are also outbound moves happening around Chicago. Renters who currently live in Chicago, but are considering moving elsewhere, are searching for apartments in warmer climates, such as Phoenix, Miami, and Los Angeles.

Learn more about moving to a new state.

Finding Your Next Apartment in Chicago

Ready to move to Chicago or to a city nearby? Start apartment hunting with Apartment List.

If Chicago doesn't seem like the the city for you, check out the best places to live in Illinois!

FAQs: What to Know Before Moving to Chicago in 2022:

What's the weather in Chicago?

Chicago is called the Windy City for a reason! Locals enjoy breeze summers, but the winters are notoriously brutal with a 0-degree average. The city boasts mild summers, with July temperatures hovering around 81-degrees. You might even need some light layers to enjoy the shores of Lake Michigan.

What's the timezone in Chicago?

Chicago, Illinois, is in the Central Time Zone. If it's 1 p.m. in New York City, it will be noon in Chicago. The time zone makes it ideal whether you work with East or West coast clients.

What to do in Chicago?

Chicago is home to attractions including the 108-story high Willis Tower, Wrigley Field, and Art Institute of Chicago. There are also plenty of people-watching opportunities at the AT&T Plaza at Millenium Park. Although locals know it as the "bean sculpture" with a reflective surface, visitors gather to see the Cloud Gate. Whether you want to enjoy the outdoor Navy Pier or dining, you can find a little of everything around Chicago.

What county is Chicago in?

Chicago is situated in Cook County, which is also the county seat, and central offices are located. The city is located on the south-eastern tip of Lake Michigan in northern Illinois.

What are the benefits of moving to Chicago?

Chicago attracts ambitious millennials and young professionals from around the world. You can grow your career at one of the city’s higher education institutions, like the University of Chicago. As a foodie town, there’s always a place to eat or drink in the city, or you can stick to iconic dish pizza, Chicago barbecue, and Chicago-style hotdogs. Enjoy your choice of an urban neighborhood close to the beach, museums, or the best restaurants in the city.

What are the pros and cons of living in Chicago?

Chicago offers a booming job market and universities to grow your future. The city is filled with attractions, foodie-worthy restaurants, and watering holes. You can spend the day on the waters of Lake Michigan and end it with friends drinking around Lincoln Park. However, cold winters are brutal in Chicago, and the cost of living isn’t known for its bargain prices.

What's the best neighborhood to move to in Chicago?

You can live in a high-rise or historic building when you live in Chicago's best neighborhoods. Some options include Bucktown for nightlife and entertainment. Hyde Park is ideal for its historic structures and quick access to the University of Chicago. Live like a tourist in Lincoln Park near the zoo, walkways, and trails or River North for urban amenities. The neighborhood boasts repurposed warehouses turned galleries, pubs, and coffee shops. Read more about the best neighborhoods in Chicago.

What's it like living in Chicago?

Chicago is home to an international population of highly-educated residents looking to grow their careers. Although the cost of living is high, it's less expensive than similar metropolises like New York City. Despite the cold winters and a dense urban core, Chicago is home to beachfront, greenspace, and annual events with live music and art. There's always a live show, concert pub, gallery event, or museum to go to when you live in the Windy City.

What are the taxes in Chicago?

Chicago and the rest of Illinois's current income tax rate is 4.95%. Sales tax can get pricey, with a minimum combined rate of 10.25%. This figure represents a total of state, county, and city sales tax rates.

What jobs are popular in Chicago?

Chicago boasts a diversified economy with a Gross Regional Product (GRP) of nearly $700 billion. Leisure, hospitality, manufacturing, transportation, Information Technology, and Health Services are booming industries in Chicago. You can also look for opportunities at employers like JPMorgan Chase, Deloitte, Boeing, United Airlines, and Ford Motors.

What universities are in Chicago?

Chicago is an attractive city for university staff undergrad and graduate students working in one of the city's renowned institutions. President Obama formerly served as a law professor at The University of Chicago. Other options include Loyola University and DePaul University, the largest Catholic University in the United States.

What are things to do in Chicago?

Chicago is a playground for young professionals and college students. Hit the lakefront beaches, go Downtown to see a live show, or enjoy some comedy at The Second City. Pay a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago, Museum of Science and Industry, and Millennium Park. Willis Tower, one of the tallest in the world, also boasts an observation deck for stunning views of the Windy City.