Moving to Chicago: The Midwest at its Finest

Chicago is one of the most exciting cities in all of the United States, and it offers residents a unique lifestyle and excellent quality of life. Throughout the city and the surrounding areas, there are endless opportunities to enjoy the local culture and entertainment. Shopping throughout Chicago is great, and if you enjoy drama, the theatre district is a must! Additionally, attractions such as the Lincoln Park Zoo, Chinatown, Navy Pier, the Willis Tower, and the “Bean” at Millenium Park are always fun to visit, whether you are a tourist or playing one for the day. Furthermore, Chicago is a city that loves its sports, so whether you enjoy football, basketball, or baseball, depending on the season, taking in live games is always a great time.

Just outside the city, there are many options for escaping the hustle and bustle and enjoying the natural surroundings. Starved Rock State Park is a top choice for hiking in the area, while Deer Grove, Matthiessen State Park, and Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve offer ample options to enjoy the pure natural beauty of the Midwestern United States.

For families and young professionals, Chicago offers all the advantages of a major city, without the heavier taxes and overcrowding of cities like Los Angeles and New York.

The Top Benefits of Moving to Chicago

Here are some of the most notable features you can expect upon relocating.

The Weather: Chicago is also known as “The Windy City,” so never underestimate that aspect of life there! Like most of the Midwest, it gets really cold during the winters. However, spring, summer, and autumn offer seasonal brilliance and very comfortable temperatures.

Culture and Entertainment: One of Chicago’s most notable features is how fun it is. There is no end to the options in regards to excitement, entertainment, sporting events, and dining. If you are into sports, Chicago is a great place to take in a game because few cities have fans so loyal. Additionally, Chicago is a fantastically diverse city and this adds to the city’s richness especially in terms of dining options!

Business and Jobs Outlook: Chicago has had excellent business and job growth in recent years, which has enabled it to surpass many other cities in the United States. For those looking to relocate there, this is a promising factor in terms of economic prosperity.

The Best Neighborhoods in Chicago

Bannockburn

Bannockburn is considered one of the best locations in all of Chicago to reside. It is a very safe neighborhood with minimal crime. The population veers on the younger side, with the majority of residents being young professionals. However, for families, it remains one of the top locations outside of Chicago, and in Illinois in general, with A+-rated schools and a truly suburban appeal.

Oak Park

Oak Park offers so much to its residents. While it is a large-town area, it maintains a small-town feel with its own downtown area. It is praised for its diversity, along with its A-rated schools. It is wholly family-friendly, and residents appreciate that their town feels like a hidden gem. There is easy access to Chicago through public transportation and the highway system. It is a safe town overall with great shopping. The only downside is some residents report the cost of living is on the higher side.

Vernon Hills

Vernon Hills offers A-rated schools, excellent shopping, great restaurants, and a very safe atmosphere. It is generally quite affordable with a decent array of jobs. There is easy access to transportation and highways, making it a very convenient place to live. Residents appreciate the welcoming, diverse, and family-friendly community. It is considered an excellent place to raise a family, as the feel is a superbly quiet and relaxed environment.

Printers Row

Printers Row is lauded as one of the prime neighborhoods in Chicago and residents appreciate the stunning landmark architecture. One of the more affordable and diverse locations in the area, Printers Row is a charming, quaint locale. There are great shopping options, farmer’s markets, and close proximity to Dearborn Park. It has excellent access to the subway and L, as well.

Lakeview

Lakeview is a highly-rated area of Chicago and it is favored by young professionals. This neighborhood features a prime location on Lake Michigan, while also offering affordable housing. Access to public transportation is great and residents appreciate having direct lines into Chicago. An added benefit is the close proximity to Wrigleyville, home to Wrigley Field, which provides excellent local entertainment.

Long Grove

A quaint suburb of Chicago, Long Grove has a small-town feel with convenient access to the city. It is a favorite among families, as it offers minimal crime, A-rated schools, and very safe, comfortable neighborhoods.

Naperville

Close enough to Chicago, but still removed enough to offer suburban amenities, Naperville is a top choice of families. The area offers low crime and well-rated schools, with affordable housing options; all features that draw in families with children of all ages. An added bonus is that Naperville’s schools are well-known for ensuring graduating students are well-prepared for entering college/ university.

Evanston

Evanston is a vibrant, lively neighborhood, located 12 miles north of downtown Chicago. This area is highly-sought-after among young professionals, as it offers endless options for things to do, including plentiful restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. It is also quite affordable, which is an additional benefit that adds to the great quality of life found here.