Chicago isn’t just the “Second City” — it’s a world-class metropolis with its own pace, pride, and punch. Think skyscrapers and jazz clubs, lake breezes and deep-dish pizza, neighborhoods with real personality. If you’re moving here long-term, expect seasons, soul, and surprisingly affordable urban life.
Key Facts About Chicago (USA)
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | ~2.7 million (city), ~9.5 million metro area |
| Language | English (main), Spanish widely spoken |
| Currency | US Dollar (USD) |
| Average Rent | $1,800–3,000/month (1-bedroom in good neighborhoods) |
| Average Net Salary | ~$4,200–6,000 |
| Health Insurance | Private and mandatory (~$300–600/month) |
| Safety Level | Varies significantly by area |
| Public Transport | CTA subway, buses, bike lanes. Monthly pass ~$105 |
| Climate | Continental – cold snowy winters, hot summers, windy spring/fall |
| Residence Permit / Long Stay | Work, study, investment visas, green card routes |
| Education | Top-tier universities and schools |
| Grocery Prices | Moderate – lower than NYC or LA |
| Access to Nature | Lake Michigan, urban beaches, parks, lakefront trails |
| City Atmosphere | Bold, cultured, architectural, with strong local pride |
Renting in Chicago: Better Value Than the Coasts
Compared to New York or LA, Chicago offers much more space for less money — especially outside the city center. Neighborhoods matter: each one has a distinct identity, from historic and artsy to sleek and upscale.
Average monthly rent in 2025:
- Studio in Lincoln Park or Pilsen: $1,200–1,800
- 1-bedroom in Wicker Park or Lakeview: $1,800–2,500
- 2-bedroom in West Loop or Logan Square: $2,600–3,500
- Utilities: $150–250/month
- Internet: ~$60/month
- Deposit: 1 month’s rent or more
Want real options? Check long-term rentals in Chicago — regularly updated and easy to filter.
Visas and Residency: Standard U.S. Rules
To live in Chicago long-term, you’ll need a valid visa or residence permit. Common paths:
- Employment visas (H-1B, O-1, L-1)
- Green card via family or employer sponsorship
- Student visa (F-1)
- Investor visa (E-2 or EB-5)
- Remote worker visas are not yet officially supported in the U.S.
Renting may require a Social Security Number, proof of income, and credit history. If you’re newly arrived, some landlords may accept multiple months prepaid instead.
Language and Local Vibe
Chicago is an English-speaking city, but you’ll also hear Spanish, Polish, and Chinese across many neighborhoods. Locals are straightforward, friendly, and practical — with a bit of Midwestern grit.
Expect four full seasons — including icy winters that test your layering game. But summer? Worth every snowflake.
Where to Live in Chicago
- Lincoln Park – green, historic, upscale
- Wicker Park – hipster, creative, great food scene
- West Loop – modern, industrial-chic, close to downtown
- Logan Square – laid-back, up-and-coming, diverse
- South Loop – quiet, developing, lake views
- Pilsen – artsy, Mexican heritage, colorful murals
- Hyde Park – intellectual, home to University of Chicago
Public transport is good — especially the “L” trains, which serve most parts of the city. A monthly CTA pass costs around $75.
Top 5 Best Neighborhoods in Chicago for Long-Term Living
| Neighborhood | Why It’s Great |
|---|---|
| 1. Lincoln Park | Family-friendly, close to the lake, full of green spaces and good schools. |
| 2. West Loop | Trendy and central. Best dining scene in the city, modern lofts, and co-working. |
| 3. Lakeview | Balanced lifestyle – great for young professionals and renters. |
| 4. Hyde Park | Intellectual and quiet. Home to University of Chicago, museums, and lakefront. |
| 5. Wicker Park | Creative vibe, independent shops, music, and easy downtown access. |
Cost of Living in Chicago
Chicago is cheaper than other U.S. big cities, but it’s still urban America — with corresponding costs.
- Rent: $1,800–2,800/month
- Utilities: ~$200/month
- Groceries: $300–500/month
- Transit pass: ~$75/month
- Coffee: $4.50
- Dinner for two: $60–90
- Gym: $50–100/month
- Healthcare: private plans, ~$300–600/month
You’ll need about $3,000–4,500/month to live comfortably as a single person in central neighborhoods.
Work and Income
Chicago is a hub for:
- Finance and consulting (Downtown Loop)
- Logistics, manufacturing, and engineering
- Healthcare and research
- Education (University of Chicago, Northwestern)
- Design, media, and advertising
There’s also a strong startup scene in Fulton Market. Remote work is common, and co-working spaces are easy to find.
| Profession | Avg. Gross Salary per Month (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Software Developer | €6,200 |
| IT Project Manager | €7,200 |
| UX/UI Designer | €5,300 |
| Architect | €5,000 |
| Mechanical Engineer | €5,400 |
| General Practitioner (Doctor) | €9,000 |
| Nurse | €4,800 |
| High School Teacher | €4,300 |
| Marketing Specialist | €5,000 |
| Accountant | €4,900 |
Healthcare: U.S. System Applies
Just like everywhere else in the States, you need private insurance. No national healthcare here.
- GP visit (uninsured): $150–250
- Dental cleaning: ~$100
- Insurance: ~$300–600/month
- Emergency care: very expensive without coverage
Many employers provide coverage, which is your best-case scenario.
Final Thoughts: Is Chicago Right for You?
Chicago is a city with architecture, attitude, and authenticity. It’s more affordable than the coasts, full of character, and proudly local. You get seasons, culture, grit — and a chance to live big without going broke.
It’s not as flashy, but it’s got heart. And that’s why so many expats and Americans alike fall hard for it.
Also read our guide on Moving to New York City