5 Reasons Chicago Is A Great Place To Move

If you’re considering making a move to one of the best cities (aka the Windy City), you probably have a ton of questions about what it’s actually like to live in Chicago like; which Chicago neighborhoods have the best farmers markets, which Chicago neighborhoods are the best for families, or what are the beaches like on Lake Michigan? Besides being known for the great Chicago fire, the Windy City, or Michigan Avenue shopping, Chicago has much more to offer than most other major cities. As a resident myself, I thought it was only fitting to round up my 5 favorite things about living in Chicago and why you should consider it, too. 

1. Chicago Area Public Schools: Academic Excellence

Chicago Public School District is the third largest public school district in the United States and boasts some of the best educational opportunities for families relocating to the Chicago area. The state of Illinois ranks #6 in the nation for pre-k-12 education and has 10 of the 50  best high schools in America, according to “U.S. News and World Report.”  Six Illinois School Districts rank in the top 20 nationwide, including the #1 Spot Adlai E Stevenson District 125 and Glenbrook High School District 225. Thousands of teachers have joined the profession in Illinois over the past five years as parents continue to relocate to the Chicago area.  Chicago Public Schools (selective enrollment programs) are considered the best in the nation.  Besides the excellent public school system, Chicago also has world-class universities like Northwestern University and the University of Chicago.

2. Culture and Activities: There’s A Community For Everyone

Chicago is a city of immigrants, home to many different communities. So, if you’re Ukrainian and you want to be a part of a community of Ukrainian people in Chicago, you go to Ukrainian Village. If you are Polish, there is a huge Polish community, and so on. Whatever community you’re part of, I'm sure Chicago has that community represented. If you want to stay close to those people, you can participate in community events to feel a little part of your home here. 

Living in Chicago Means There’s Always Something To Do: Best Free Activities in Chicago

Living in Chicago means there is always something to do, whether it's going to a free movie at Millennium Park, the Chicago jazz festival, biking along the Chicago river, or a stroll in Wrigleyville. There are a lot of free activities in Chicago, especially in the summer months. While many tourist attractions are in the loop, Chicago is made up of 77 unique neighborhoods, and each one has tons of hidden gems to explore. Living in a different neighborhood can create a completely different Chicago experience, like moving from River North to West Loop to Bucktown. Here are some of the popular activities in Chicago that won't break the bank:

• Lincoln Park Zoo (Free)

• John Hancock Building (visit signature room on 95th Floor)

• Picnic at Grant Park

• City's Architecture (biking or walking)

• Lincoln Park Conservatory

• Biking Trails Throughout the City

• Navy Pier

Sports in Chicago

For sports enthusiasts, Chicago is a dream come true. Living in Chicago means you can access professional sports for every major sport. Enjoy your Chicago Style Hot Dog from the bleachers in Wrigley Field while cheering on the Chicago Cubs. Or attend a sports event from on of the many sports teams based in the city, like Chicago White Sox (baseball), Chicago Bulls (basketball), Chicago Bears (football), and Chicago Blackhawks (hockey). Attending games at iconic venues like Wrigley Field and the United Center is an experience unlike any other.

World-Class Museums in Chicago

The city's exceptional collection of museums that truly sets it apart as a cultural haven earned its reputation as a vibrant city. From the Museum of Science and Industry to the Natural History Museum, Chicago's museums offer a captivating journey through time, knowledge, and creativity. Living in Chicago is the ideal city and perfect place to explore these top 8 museums:

• The Art Institute of Chicago

Undoubtedly one of the crown jewels of Chicago's cultural landscape, the Art Institute of Chicago is a must-visit for art enthusiasts and casual admirers alike. Boasting an extensive collection spanning over 300,000 artworks, the museum showcases everything from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces. Visitors can marvel at renowned works by artists like Grant Wood, Georges Seurat, Vincent van Gogh, and Grant Wood. The museum's impressive Impressionist and Post-Impressionist galleries are particularly captivating, offering a glimpse into the world of Monet, Renoir, and Degas.

• Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry is the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere, a paradise for curious minds of all ages. Located in the historic Hyde Park neighborhood, the museum offers a hands-on exploration of scientific concepts, technological innovations, and historical artifacts. From the fascinating U-505 German submarine to the interactive exhibits on space exploration and natural phenomena, this museum brings science to life in captivating and educational ways.

• The Field Museum

The Field Museum is an unparalleled destination for those passionate about the natural world and anthropology. Home to the world-famous Sue, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex fossil ever discovered, the museum boasts an extensive collection of artifacts that span the realms of biology, geology, and anthropology. Visitors can explore ancient civilizations, marvel at gems and minerals, and discover the mysteries of the animal kingdom through dioramas and interactive exhibits.

• Chicago History Museum

Delving into the city's own past, the Chicago History Museum provides a comprehensive and immersive journey through the history of the Windy City. From the Chicago Fire to the Prohibition era and beyond, visitors can explore the stories that have shaped the city's identity. The museum's interactive exhibitions, photographs, and artifacts offer a glimpse into Chicago's vibrant past and its role in shaping American history.

• Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

For contemporary art lovers, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago (MCA) is a haven of creativity and innovation. The museum showcases a diverse range of contemporary artworks across various mediums, from painting and sculpture to multimedia installations and performance art. With a dynamic rotation of exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists, the MCA reflects the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art.

• The DuSable Museum of African-American History

Dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history and contributions of African Americans, the DuSable Museum provides a vital space for education and cultural enrichment. Through thought-provoking exhibits, artifacts, and events, the museum sheds light on the African-American experience, from historical struggles to achievements and ongoing contributions.

3. The Food: Deep Dish Pizza, Chicago Style Hot Dog, and Michelin Rated Restaurants

Chicago is a food lover's paradise. Renowned for its deep-dish pizza, the city's culinary scene extends far beyond this iconic dish. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden gem eateries, there's something for every palate. The West Loop's "Restaurant Row" and the thriving food truck scene are testaments to the city's commitment to culinary innovation. Plus, the local dedication to sourcing ingredients locally means you'll find farm-to-table freshness at many establishments. After living in Chicago for a while, you may settle for a nice Chicago handshake at the Logan Square dive bar.

4. The Public Transportation System

My next favorite thing about living in Chicago is the amazing public transportation system throughout downtown Chicago and even through the suburbs. There are so many places I’ve visited in the U.S. where there are no buses or trains, or if there are, they're unreliable. Chicago is great in this regard. You have the L, you have the Metra rails, you have buses, and you have Divvy bikes and scooters everywhere. Because of the robust transit system, many Chicago residents don’t own a car and have no problems getting around. This is obviously a great money-saving method, leading perfectly to my next favorite thing about Chicago. 

5. Real Estate/Affordability 

Chicago, as a whole, is more affordable than many other major cities and metropolitan areas in the States. I follow a lot of real estate agents on Instagram, and I'm sometimes shocked when they post a 250-square-foot apartment in New York or L.A. for rent for $4,000. What? Where do these prices come from? I think Chicago is a great city to start in if you're moving to Illinois. Especially if you're renting with roommates, you can definitely have your own bedroom for under $1,000 a month. 

Compared to San Francisco or San Diego, Chicago is a world-class city in its own league. Sometimes known as the "Second City" or the "third largest city," living in Chicago is hard to compare. Chicago's museums offer a captivating journey through time, culture, and knowledge. Whether you're an art aficionado, a science enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious soul, the city's diverse array of museums ensures there's something for everyone. Each museum contributes to Chicago's unique cultural tapestry, from iconic institutions to hidden gems, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking intellectual enrichment and artistic inspiration.

Do these top 5 reasons why Chicago is such a great place to live, or how living in Chicago makes New Yorkers jealous with all of these great amenities and reasonable real estate prices? If you’re considering moving to Chicago, click here to contact us.