Chicago is the third-largest city in the nation after New York City and Los Angeles. Despite its size, it’s easy to navigate, is affordable to live in, and isn’t as daunting to move to as other metropolitan areas if that’s a way of living you aren’t used to.
These are the best things about living in Chicago, which you’ll see as you look at Chicago apartments for rent.
Living here won’t absolutely break the bank.
Median rents in places like Manhattan or San Francisco are almost double what you’ll find in Chicago. You can typically get more space for less money here.
The price fluctuates depending on what area of the city you move to. Areas like the Logan Square, River North, and the West Loop are more sought after, so prices will be higher there.
Midwest charm abounds.
A stranger offers up a good place to grab lunch when all you’ve asked for is directions to the nearest gas station. Someone you’ve never seen before in your life waves at you from across the street.
This is the typical demeanor of a Midwestern dweller, a group of people known as some of the friendliest in the country.
Many large cities are filled with folks shoving their way through crowds, shooting dirty looks at strangers, or plain keeping their heads down and to themselves. It’s not so in Chicago.
The arts and entertainment scene is thriving.
If you love comedy shows and improv, Chicago is the perfect spot. It’s well-known thanks to one-time residents Stephen Colbert and Tina Fey. The Annoyance and Lincoln Lodge are famed spots to get your giggle on.
You can also enjoy Broadway musicals and serious stage shows at places like the Goodman or Steppenwolf Theatres.
Chicago has been home to many jazz and blues musicians, and there are many venues that cater to those genres and more.
There are also annual festivals like Lollapalooza and Riot Fest that pull in top talents to the area.
The largest and most complete T-Rex ever discovered sits at the Field Museum, and the Art Institute of Chicago has works by Picaso, Warhol, and Van Gogh.
You’ll get your fill of food and drink.
Beer drinkers will rejoice at the sheer number of local and national breweries in the area, as well as several beer festivals that go on throughout the warmer months.
Feel like chomping down on a Chicago dog? Or would you rather pull on your Friday night best and indulge in innovative fusion cuisine? You can have both in Chicago.
Two staples of the food scene are deep dish pizza with a buttery crust and the aforementioned hot dogs, which are covered in yellow mustard, white onions, sweet pickle relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices, pickled sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt.
It’s uniquely built.
There are neo-gothic and contemporary skyscrapers and buildings in the city, but also plenty of green space to enjoy.
It’s called a “City in a Garden,” thanks to the urban planners who ensured residents would have ample places to picnic, walk dogs, and jog.
