Chicago, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, is a diverse city that will steal your heart with its stunning skyline, friendly locals, and a deep-dish pizza to die for.
You'll be greeted by iconic sights like "The Bean" in Millennium Park, where reflective selfies are a must. Take in the breathtaking views from the Willis Tower Skydeck or channel your inner Ferris Bueller at the Art Institute of Chicago, home to famous masterpieces that will make your jaw drop.
Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. Like Wicker Park, where hipster cafes, vintage shops, and street art galore await. And Pilsen, where the smell of delicious tacos fills the air. And don't forget to catch a game at Wrigley Field in Wrigleyville, where the Chicago Cubs faithful cheer on their team.
The Good
- 🎉 Decent nightlife
- 😋 Decent food options
- ☕ Coffee
- 📡 Strong wifi coverage
- ✈️ Close to airport
- 🚌 Good public transport
- 🏛️ Architecture
The Bad
- 💰 Relatively expensive
- 👮 Not the safest
- 🚘 Traffic
- 🗑️ Pollution
- 🤼 Crowded
Living costs
- Chicago is the 3rd cheapest place (out of 14) to live in United States
- The average salary in Chicago is
- It's about 17% more expensive to live in Chicago than it is Paris
- You can expect to spend around $3,287.95 per month living here
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- Prices are estimates and should be used as a guide only. We accept no responsibility for inaccuracies in data.
- Prices adjusted to reflect exchange rates as of 3rd Jun 2026
Safety
Chicago has areas with high crime rates, particularly violent crime, but many neighbourhoods are safe and have a strong community presence.
Where to stay
1. River North
Known for its vibrant nightlife, River North is a trendy neighborhood with numerous art galleries, upscale restaurants, and bars. It's also close to the Magnificent Mile shopping district and offers a variety of accommodation options.
2. Wicker Park
This hip neighborhood is a haven for artists, creatives, and indie music lovers. Wicker Park is filled with vintage shops, eclectic boutiques, live music venues, and a diverse food scene. It's a great choice for those seeking a vibrant and bohemian atmosphere.
3. Lakeview
Situated along Lake Michigan, Lakeview is a mix of residential and commercial areas. It's home to Wrigley Field, the iconic baseball stadium, as well as a range of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Lakeview also has easy access to the lakefront parks and beaches.
4. West Loop
Formerly an industrial area, the West Loop has transformed into a hub for foodies and art enthusiasts. It's renowned for its award-winning restaurants, trendy bars, and contemporary art galleries. The West Loop also offers convenient access to the Loop and downtown area.