Is Chicago, IL a Safe Place to Live?

Jason Rosko • October 21, 2024

Chicago, often referred to as "The Windy City," is a vibrant and diverse metropolis that has captured the hearts of many with its stunning architecture, renowned culinary scene, and rich cultural offerings. Known for its iconic skyline, deep-dish pizza, and bustling neighborhoods, Chicago offers a dynamic urban lifestyle that attracts people from all walks of life. But is Chicago a good place to live? Like any major city, it comes with both benefits and challenges.

While Chicago presents endless opportunities for entertainment, career advancement, and community engagement, it also has aspects that potential residents should carefully consider. Here you will find the pros and cons of living in Chicago to help you determine if it’s the right city for you. 


What’s It Like to Live in Chicago, IL?

While tourists may be dazzled by Chicago’s famous attractions like the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, and the towering Willis Tower, for locals, these landmarks often blend into the background of daily life. Living in the Windy City is more than just the sights; it’s about the unique rhythm of each neighborhood and the city's seasonal shifts.


Your experience in Chicago largely depends on where you choose to live. With 77 official community areas, each neighborhood offers something unique, from Uptown’s laid-back vibe to Hyde Park’s historic charm and the bustling activity of The Loop. Summers are filled with festivals, fireworks, and beach days, while winters bring ice skating, zoo lights, and festive holiday events.


As spring warms the city, life returns to its streets, and in fall, colorful leaves line the sidewalks. For museum enthusiasts, Museum Campus is a must-visit, and Cubs fans always have a team to cheer for throughout baseball season. Chicago’s festival scene is seemingly endless, ensuring there’s always something to enjoy.


A Rich Arts and Cultural Landscape

For anyone passionate about the arts, Chicago is a goldmine of cultural experiences. The city boasts an array of world-renowned institutions that cater to diverse artistic tastes. 

Chicago as a Cultural Hub

  • A goldmine of cultural experiences for art enthusiasts.

The Art Institute of Chicago

  • One of the most prestigious art museums in the world.
  • Houses a vast collection ranging from ancient to contemporary art.
  • Visitors often spend hours or days exploring its galleries.

The Chicago Theatre

  • Iconic venue with a grand marquee.
  • Hosts concerts, comedy shows, and live performances.
  • Popular with both tourists and locals.

Art Fairs and Festivals

  • Chicago’s calendar is filled with art fairs and cultural events.

Jazz Festivals

  • The Chicago Jazz Festival and the Hyde Park Jazz Festival are annual events that attract international musicians and jazz fans.


Thrilling Sports and Entertainment Choices

When it comes to sports and entertainment, few cities can rival Chicago. For sports fans, it’s a dream come true. The city is home to some of the most storied sports teams in the country, each with a passionate fan base. 

Sports Enthusiasm in Chicago

  • Chicago Cubs: Cheering at Wrigley Field.
  • Chicago White Sox: Rooting at Guaranteed Rate Field.
  • Chicago Bulls: Supporting at the United Center.
  • Chicago Blackhawks: Thrilling NHL games, especially for hockey fans.

Theater Scene

  • Goodman Theatre: Known for delivering world-class theatrical productions.
  • Steppenwolf Theatre Company: Offers a mix of classic and contemporary performances.

Diverse Entertainment Options

  • Beyond sports, Chicago offers top-tier theatrical experiences, appealing to both theater aficionados and casual attendees.


Renowned Food Scene

Chicago’s food culture is legendary. From its iconic deep-dish pizza to its thriving gourmet scene, the city is a haven for foodies. 

Chicago-Style Pizza

  • Thick, buttery crust with layers of cheese and toppings.
  • Famous rivalry between Lou Malnati’s and Giordano’s.

Diverse Culinary Landscape

  • Beyond pizza, Chicago offers a wide variety of food options.
  • Ranges from Michelin-starred fine dining to food truck delicacies.

Cultural Food Diversity

  • Pilsen: Known for vibrant Mexican cuisine.
  • Chinatown: Offers a blend of traditional and contemporary Asian fusion.

Global Cuisine Representation

  • Chicago's neighborhoods feature dishes from around the world, including authentic tacos, sushi, and Middle Eastern fare.


Scenic Lakefront and Abundant Outdoor Spaces

One of the most striking features of Chicago is its breathtaking lakefront, which stretches for 18 miles along Lake Michigan. 

Lakefront Escape

  • Public beaches like North Avenue Beach and Oak Street Beach for relaxation, swimming, and water sports.
  • Walking along the shoreline offers views of the lake and the iconic city skyline.

Grant Park

  • Known as “Chicago’s front yard.”
  • Hosts outdoor festivals and events, including Lollapalooza.
  • Provides beautiful views of the city.

Millennium Park

  • Famous for the "Cloud Gate" sculpture (also known as "The Bean").
  • A popular spot for outdoor concerts, art installations, and green spaces.


Excellent Public Transportation System

Chicago’s public transportation system is among the best in the country, offering residents an efficient, affordable way to navigate the city. The CTA’s “L” trains, which operate across multiple lines, connect neighborhoods to downtown and other major points of interest, making it easy to get around without a car. Additionally, the city’s bus system supplements the trains, providing further connectivity to areas that may not be serviced by rail.

Alternative Transportation Options

  • Divvy bike-sharing system for easy bike access.
  • Water taxis for scenic transportation along the river.

Pedestrian-Friendly Neighborhoods

  • Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance.

Walkability and Public Transportation

  • Convenient public transportation system.
  • Walkability reduces the need for car ownership, making Chicago ideal for urban dwellers avoiding car expenses and hassles.


High Sales Taxes

Chicago, IL, is known for having some of the highest sales taxes in the United States. The combined sales tax rate in Chicago is typically around 10.25%, which includes state, county, city, and special district taxes. Here's a breakdown:

  1. State Sales Tax: The base rate in Illinois is 6.25%.
  2. County Sales Tax: Cook County, where Chicago is located, adds a 1.75% tax.
  3. City Sales Tax: The City of Chicago adds a 1.50% sales tax.
  4. Special District Taxes: The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) adds another 1.0% tax.

This 10.50% rate applies to most goods and services purchased within the city. However, some items, such as groceries, medicine, and medical equipment, may be taxed at lower rates (around 1% for groceries).


Cost of Living

While Chicago offers many amenities, its cost of living is higher than in many other U.S. cities. Pricey Housing in Popular Neighborhoods

  • Rent ranges from $1,500 to $2,300 per month in popular areas.

Upscale Neighborhoods

  • Gold Coast and Lincoln Park have even higher housing prices.

Higher Cost of Living

  • Utility costs, transportation, and groceries are above the national average.

Importance of Budgeting

  • Prospective residents should plan carefully to account for these higher expenses.


Heavy Traffic and Limited Parking

Chicago’s busy streets are often congested, especially during peak hours. The city’s extensive network of highways and major roads can quickly become overwhelmed by the volume of commuters, leading to long delays. Parking, particularly in popular neighborhoods or downtown, is both expensive and hard to come by. Although public transportation offers a viable alternative, those who prefer to drive may find navigating the city’s traffic frustrating.


Environmental Challenges

Chicago, IL, faces several environmental challenges as one of the largest urban centers in the United States. These challenges are a result of the city’s dense population, industrial history, and changing climate. Here are some of the key environmental issues affecting Chicago:

Water Pollution and Quality

Lake Michigan, which provides drinking water to the Chicago metropolitan area, faces pollution threats from industrial runoff, combined sewer overflows, and agricultural chemicals. The city's combined sewer system can lead to water pollution, especially after heavy rains, when untreated sewage and stormwater are discharged into the river system. The Chicago River, once heavily polluted, has seen improvements, but contamination from stormwater runoff remains a concern.

Flooding and Stormwater Management

Chicago faces significant challenges with stormwater management due to its aging infrastructure and flat topography. Climate change has led to more frequent and intense rainstorms, overwhelming the city’s sewer systems and causing urban flooding. The city has worked on green infrastructure solutions, like permeable pavements and rain gardens, to absorb excess water, but managing flood risks remains a major issue.


Challenging Winters

Chicago is infamous for its harsh winters, with temperatures regularly plunging below freezing from December to February. 

Harsh Winters

  • Temperatures often plunge below freezing from December to February.
  • Common occurrences of snow, ice, and strong winds.
  • Blizzards can disrupt transportation and make the city difficult to navigate.

Winter Sports and Activities

  • Chicagoans embrace the cold with ice skating, skiing, and snowboarding.

Winter Festivals and Events

  • Christkindlmarket: A traditional German holiday market.
  • Polar Plunge: Participants brave icy Lake Michigan to raise money for charity.



Should You Live in Chicago, IL?

Living in Chicago offers a dynamic mix of cultural experiences, job opportunities, and urban excitement that few cities can match. With its rich arts scene, world-class food, diverse neighborhoods, and access to nature, the city provides an unparalleled lifestyle for many. However, it also presents challenges such as harsh winters, a relatively high cost of living, and traffic congestion that must be considered.

Ultimately, is Chicago a good place to live? For those who thrive in a bustling urban environment and appreciate the balance of city life you can consider reaching out to a moving company in Elgin IL that has a solid reputation for providing reliable and efficient services. They can take the hassle out of the moving process by packing, transporting, and even unpacking your items with care. 

With their expertise in handling local moves, you can trust that your belongings will be transported safely and securely to your new home. From delicate items like glassware to larger furniture, the right movers will manage everything. With their professional assistance, you'll have peace of mind knowing your move is in good hands, allowing you to focus on settling into your new environment in Chicago.

A Detailed Exploration of Educational Prospects in Glen Ellyn, IL

By Jason Rosko • May 15, 2025
Glen Ellyn, IL, boasts a rich and varied educational landscape, offering a spectrum of educational opportunities that reflect its commitment to fostering academic growth and development among students. Established many decades ago, the educational system in Glen Ellyn, Illinois has evolved to meet the changing demands of the economy and society. The evolution of schools here is a testament to the community's commitment to maintaining a robust and adaptive educational framework. General characteristics of Glen Ellyn's educational institutions include a strong emphasis on both academic achievement and the developmental needs of students. Schools prioritize a diverse set of programs that cater to different learning styles, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. Whether through innovative teaching methods or the integration of new technologies, schools in Glen Ellyn consistently aim to offer an enriching learning experience. Key Highlights of Glen Ellyn's Educational Infrastructure: Diversity of Institutions: Glen Ellyn is home to public, private, and alternative educational institutions, each offering unique programs tailored to student needs. Community Involvement: Schools often involve community members in various educational initiatives, enhancing student learning through real-world experiences. Resource Availability: Libraries and community centers work alongside schools to provide additional educational resources, promoting lifelong learning. Public Schools in Glen Ellyn: Insights and Information Glen Ellyn's public school system is known for its strong academic reputation and commitment to creating well-rounded students. With several districts serving the region, the public schools here are filled with dedicated educators and a well-structured curriculum aimed at meeting high academic standards. Overview of Public School Districts: Glen Ellyn School District 41: This district is characterized by its focus on personalized learning experiences. Schools in this district emphasize the development of critical thinking and creativity among students. Community Consolidated School District 89: Known for its inclusive educational programs, this district serves a diverse community and seeks to accommodate a broad spectrum of student abilities and needs. Glenbard Township High School District 87: Serving high school students, this district boasts strong college preparatory programs and an array of extracurricular activities. Leading Public Schools and Their Performance Metrics Public schools in Glen Ellyn have consistently performed well, both in state and national assessments. Key performance metrics include standardized test scores, college acceptance rates, and student engagement levels. Here are a few noteworthy schools in terms of performance: Glenbard West High School: Renowned for its rigorous academic programs and extracurricular diversity, Glenbard West provides numerous Advanced Placement courses and has high college acceptance rates. Hadley Junior High School: With an emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, Hadley prepares its students for high school with a strong foundation in critical problem-solving skills. Extracurricular Opportunities and Programs Schools in Glen Ellyn strive to offer a comprehensive educational experience, which includes a variety of extracurricular programs such as athletics, arts, and clubs. These programs play a crucial role in developing students' social skills and providing a platform for exploring interests outside the traditional classroom setting. Key Extracurricular Offerings: Sports Programs: Including soccer, basketball, and track, among others. Arts and Music: Band, choir, drama clubs, and visual arts classes. Academic Clubs: Debate, science olympiad, and math leagues that provide intellectual challenges beyond the standard curriculum. Private and Alternative Schooling Options Glen Ellyn is not only home to a robust public school system but also a variety of private and alternative schools that cater to different educational philosophies and needs. These schools offer families the opportunity to select educational environments that align more closely with their personal values or specialized requirements. Private Schools in Glen Ellyn: A Closer Look Private schools in Glen Ellyn often offer specialized programs and a more individualized approach to education. Many of these institutions focus on religious education or international curricula. Key Private Educational Institutions Include: St. Petronille Catholic School: Known for integrating faith-based teaching with academic excellence, this school emphasizes moral values alongside its educational programs. Montessori Academy of Glen Ellyn: Offers a child-centered educational approach that encourages independent learning and respects a child's natural psychological development stages. Immaculate Conception School: Provides a balanced curriculum that integrates academics with spiritual growth, focusing on creating a strong community ethos. Charter Schools and Alternative Education Programs Charter schools provide another educational avenue within Glen Ellyn, often focusing on specific educational strategies or subjects. These schools operate with greater autonomy than traditional public schools, allowing for innovative teaching practices. Notable Charter and Alternative Programs: Glen Ellyn Academy: Focuses on non-traditional learning environments that emphasize project-based and experiential learning. Virtual Learning Options: Several institutions offer comprehensive online programs, providing flexibility for students who might benefit from a home-based learning structure. Academic Performance and Standards Glen Ellyn schools are committed to maintaining high academic standards, reflected in their students' achievements in various assessments. The standardized testing statistics serve as a benchmark for evaluating educational effectiveness, school quality, and student preparedness for future academic endeavors. Key Academic Performance Indicators: Standardized Test Scores: Schools in Glen Ellyn consistently perform above the state average in key assessments such as the SAT and ACT. Graduation Rates: With rates well above the national average, a majority of students in Glen Ellyn complete their high school education successfully. College Readiness Metrics: A high percentage of graduates from Glen Ellyn pursue higher education, equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge. Special Education Resources and Support Systems are robust, ensuring that students with diverse needs receive the tailored support they require. Schools have dedicated staff and resources to support special education programs, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility.

Exploring the Enchanting Neighborhoods of Glen Ellyn, IL

By Jason Rosko • May 15, 2025
Glen Ellyn, IL, is a peaceful suburban haven that beckons those who crave a blend of historical allure and modern conveniences. Nestled in the heart of DuPage County, Glen Ellyn, Illinois is charming with its picturesque settings characterized by tree-lined streets and beautiful parks. The village has long been a desirable location for families due to its quality schools, robust community life, and proximity to Chicago—only about 23 miles away. Glen Ellyn's Historical Significance and Cultural Landscape Glen Ellyn's roots stretch back to the early 19th century when it began as a small settlement. The village grew around Stacy's Tavern, a way-station for travelers, which still stands today as a historical museum. The community embraced its natural resources, resulting in the establishment of Lake Ellyn, a man-made lake that anchors many cultural and recreational activities. The architecture within Glen Ellyn ranges from Victorian homes to contemporary developments, reflecting its rich history and adaptability to changing times. Glen Ellyn has managed to preserve its historical fabric while integrating modern amenities seamlessly. This gives residents an enriched quality of life, whether they stroll through the historic downtown or enjoy the various public events held throughout the year. The cultural landscape is vibrant, with local events such as the Glen Ellyn Festival of the Arts and the Taste of Glen Ellyn reflecting a strong community spirit. The presence of local theaters, art galleries, and music festivals ensures that residents have ample opportunities to immerse themselves in a rich cultural environment. For those considering a move, Glen Ellyn offers not only a residential haven but a community deeply connected to its history and culture.
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