Moving to Chicago
The Windy City, Chicago, rests along the southwest shore of Lake Michigan and is known for many things including its architecture.
In Chicago, you'll be treated to a lively environment with an ever-changing climate, an impressive skyline and supremely diverse population — all part of the city's charm. You'll be among three million residents in the third most populous city in the United States. Chicago has a notable and famous political culture and incredibly hypnotic history.
With regard to business, Chicago is a major financial centre and convention destination. For recreation it offers about 7,300 acres of parkland, 33 beaches, nine museums, two world-class conservatories, 16 historic lagoons and 10 bird and wildlife gardens. Those are just some of the reasons to live and work in Chicago. Because of its large population, there are many languages spoken and a wide variety of faiths practiced. If you hear the name ‘Chicagoland’ used, it is an informal name for the city's metro area, given to it by the Chicago Tribune newspaper. The city's waterfront allure, its nightlife, its famous festivals and its cuisine attract the residents and tourists who descend on the city each year. The people who get to call Chicago home are very lucky indeed.
Living in the city
- The place and its people become very lively during the summer months because Chicagoans welcome and make good use of the warm weather. There is an abundance of festivals, concerts, outdoor dining, sporting events and much more.
- Summers are hot and humid with average high temperatures of 80-84°F (27-29°C) and lows of 61-65°F (16-19°C). Winters are cold, snowy and windy with temperatures below freezing. Spring and fall (autumn) are mild with low humidity.
- There are countless non-English speaking residents who live in Chicago, going about their lives, navigating the city successfully. However, it is a great advantage to grasp the basics of the English language. You'll be better able to take advantage of all that Chicago offers.
- When trying to choose the perfect part of town that suits your lifestyle, consider proximity to work, schools and friends. Neighbourhood characteristics, amenities and price are also important, so here are some spots to consider:
- Gold Coast (North of downtown to North Avenue, and west from the lakefront to Clark Street). This is one of Chicago’s most prominent neighbourhoods with everything in walking distance.
- Lincoln Park (North of Armitage Avenue to Diversey Avenue, and west of Lincoln Park to Halsted Street). Quietness and charm draw many young professionals and families with children to this neighbourhood.
- Lakeview (North of Diversey Avenue to Irving Park Road, and west from the Lake to Ravenswood Avenue). Although densely populated, Lakeview is an alternative to the expensive options of the Gold Coast and Lincoln Park.
- Bucktown (Centred around the Damen Avenue, North Avenue and Milwaukee Avenue intersection). Here young people looking for convenience and value in a city neighbourhood would feel at home.
Getting around
The superb public transportation system of Chicago will make life very easy for you. If you work and live in the city, you might find that you don't need a car. Restaurants and shopping will be within walking distance from your home and taxis are always readily available; but if you decide to maintain a car, remember that parking can be very difficult in some areas.
In the suburbs, where walking isn't quite as convenient, it might be necessary to own a car. Shopping, dining and entertainment are much more spread out than in the city. Remember that you need minimum liability insurance coverage in order to legally operate a vehicle in Chicago.
Most buses run everyday during day and evening hours and on some routes they operate all night long. If you prefer to travel by rail, Metra train tickets can be purchased online via the Metra website.