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Chicago, IL, United States
Capital City

Follows United States Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$4,100
Retiree Score
68.0
Safety Index
44.1
Healthcare
130 facilities

Reality bites in the Windy City. With a population of 2,746,388, Chicago is the third-largest city in the U.S. - but don't let the stats fool you. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the climate swings wildly from scorching summers to brutal winters. Still, the city's economic might and cultural vibrancy draw many, though the high crime rates in certain neighborhoods are a serious concern. Chicago is best suited for those who can handle its challenges and complexities.

Can I afford Chicago, IL?

$

Chicago, IL

You would need

-1,100/mo

Savings Rate0%

Monthly Costs

Rent $2,650
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,450

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
0/100
Retiree Score
(i)
68/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
48/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets United States Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
44
Safety
130
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$3
Eggs (12) *$4
Rice (1kg) *$5
Chicken (1kg) *$12

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$22
Meal (Mid-range) *$33
Cappuccino *$4
Water (0.33L) *$2

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $293
Mobile Plan (mo) $89
Gym (mo) *$44
Cinema Ticket *$13

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $2,650
1BR Outside (mo) *$1,355
3BR Center (mo) $4,850
3BR Outside (mo) *$2,228

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Large & Active
Top Neighborhoods
Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, Lakeview
Best For
professionals, young adults

Expat Life Notes

A world-class metropolis with global corporate hubs and a massive, diverse expat population.

Pros

  • ✓ World-class dining and culture
  • ✓ Major career hub
  • ✓ Excellent public transport in center

Cons

  • ✗ Cold and windy winters
  • ✗ High taxes
  • ✗ Safety concerns in specific zones

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
-6°C°C - 28°C°C
Annual Rainfall
1245 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Jun, Aug, Sep

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Chicago, IL

Click any question to expand the answer.

Chicago, IL has a population of approximately 2,746,388 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $6,625 per month in Chicago, IL, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $2650/month.

The nearest airport to Chicago, IL is MDW, approximately 15km away.

Chicago, IL is considered moderate in terms of safety, with a safety index of 44.1. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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