Everything You Need to Know About Moving to Chicago

Chicago is not just a city. It is an exciting destination that boasts several renowned museums, including the Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, and the Art Institute of Chicago. The lively Navy Pier and iconic Willis Tower are popular attractions, while the Magnificent Mile is a shopper's paradise. With a food scene that rivals larger cities, Chicago has something for everyone, from music to art, all waiting to be discovered in the famed windy city.

Chicago is an alluring metropolis that entices individuals for a multitude of reasons. Many choose to relocate for the promise of lucrative job opportunities, while others follow their heart to be with family or their significant other.

The city's dazzling lights and boundless possibilities are also a major draw for those seeking adventure and excitement. Chicago is a bustling and captivating city, boasting warm, friendly locals who make newcomers feel right at home.

Chicago is known for having cold winters, but only locals may know some lesser-known weather facts. For instance, there is a tradition called “dibs," where individuals reserve parking spots they have cleared of snow by leaving items such as a bucket, toy, or furniture in the area. Most Chicagoans respect this unwritten rule and do not park in spots with dibs.

Here is another one. Did you know about the Chicago Pedway? This underground pedestrian system covers over 40 blocks and is a great alternative route during bad weather. It is more than just practical, though. The Pedway also boasts plenty of restaurants and shops, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors.

Officially, Chicago has 77 community areas with boundaries that never change. Unofficially, Chicago has well over 100 neighborhoods with boundaries and characteristics that change over time. Here are just a few of the neighborhoods.

The Chicago Loop has luxurious high-rise condominiums and is in the heart of all the action downtown. There is also the South Loop and the West Loop. If you live in the Loop, expect to be among a sea of tourists, but you will also have all that Chicago offers at your fingertips.

The Gold Coast is a small prestigious neighborhood just north of downtown with lavish homes and grand historic buildings with posh condominiums. It has high-end boutiques, restaurants, and a lakeside beach.

Lincoln Park is an affluent area with beautiful tree-lined streets, upscale shopping, great restaurants, and stunning beaches. It is a favorite for young professionals and families. Lincoln Park is close to downtown but with more of a neighborhood feel, and it’s home to attractions like the Chicago History Museum and the Lincoln Park Zoo.

River North is a vibrant neighborhood that attracts the younger crowd. It sits on the banks of the Chicago River and is close to the Loop, museums, galleries, dining, and nightlife. There are fewer parks, but it has a scenic Riverwalk where you will find kayak rentals, cafes, and more.

Streeterville lies just outside the Loop, between the famed Navy Pier and the Magnificent Mile. It features a good mix of residents and tourists, with easy access to downtown and Lake Michigan. People who want to live in the city but do not want to live in the Loop select Streeterville.

Living in Chicago is expensive, but this is typical for a big city. Chicago’s overall cost of living is 20% higher than the national average. Housing costs are 52% higher, groceries are 5% higher, and utility costs are 3% lower.

However, compared to New York City, living in Chicago is much more affordable. It has a cost of living that is 32.7% lower, and housing costs are 50.7% less in Chicago than in the Big Apple.

Chicago boasts a variety of transportation options to help visitors and locals easily get around the city. Walking is popular, as the city is highly pedestrian-friendly, and many attractions are within walking distance. Cyclists can also take advantage of the many bike lanes and the Divvy bike-share program.

For longer distances, visitors can fly into the city's international airports: O'Hare or Midway. There are also over 100 bus routes and the elevated train, known as the L, which connects the city's north and south sections and provides access to O'Hare Airport.

The Metra Rail is another option for those commuting from the suburbs to downtown. Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are also readily available, as well as shuttle and limo services. While parking in downtown Chicago can be challenging and expensive, many people still opt to drive their own vehicles.

Chicago is a food lover's paradise with a variety of fantastic dining options to choose from. You can indulge in a juicy steak while listening to live music at Mastro’s Steakhouse or opt for Alinea's ultimate fine dining experience.

With options ranging from casual to fancy, there's something for everyone. Oriole is a must-visit two-star Michelin restaurant with a phenomenal tasting menu. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse in the Gold Coast serves perfectly cooked cuts of meat and a quintessential American dining experience. Check out the popular Next Restaurant near Fulton Market for an out-of-this-world rotating tasting menu.

Chicago is a vibrant, lively city with so much to offer. You will never get bored with the art installations, world-renowned museums, the bustling music scene, and the thrilling water sports on Lake Michigan. Chicago is truly the talk of the town during the summer season, with an array of fun-filled events on the roster. From the Chicago Blues Festival and the Jazz Festival to Lollapalooza, the Millenium Park Summer Music Series, and more, Chicago has no shortage of fun, food, music, and festivities in store. In May, don’t miss the Chicago City Market, with its fresh fruits, flowers, and unique finds. Chicago doesn’t slow down in the winter, either, with ice skating at Millenium Park, tree-lighting ceremonies, auto shows, folk festivals, and so much more. If your idea of fun is parades, fireworks, and music festivals, you’re in the right place.

Chicago is also home to impressive sports teams, like the Chicago Cubs and the White Sox, the Chicago Bears, the Chicago Bulls, and the Chicago Blackhawks. If you cannot find something fun to do in Chicago, you may not have looked hard enough.

Are you thinking about moving to Chicago? If you're considering a move to this incredible city, you may feel overwhelmed by the prospect of adjusting to a new place. There are many factors to consider, such as the type of urban environment you seek and which neighborhoods best suit your lifestyle.

Fortunately, trusted broker Giorgios Karayannis has extensive knowledge of homes for sale in Chicago, having lived and worked there for several years. As a licensed real estate agent in Illinois and Indiana, he understands the challenges of relocating and is eager to help with your home-buying or selling needs. Do not hesitate to reach out to Giorgios Karayannis for expert guidance.