Moving to Chicago in 2024?
Complete Moving Guide

Planning to move to Chicago?

Moving is important for a better lifestyle, professional growth or for a location change. And if you are planning to move to Chicago then you must learn about the city before moving there. The cost of living in Chicago is high and basic amenities are expensive in the city. The public transport system in Chicago is extensive with bike-friendly lanes. The city experiences four distinct seasons with unpredictable weather. The city has various neighborhoods with distinct features and amenities. The city has a higher crime rate than any other city. You can find several options for fun and celebration in Chicago. 

There are several other things that you might need to know about Chicago, and in this guide, we have explained those details for you.

• Quick Facts of Chicago
• Top reasons to move to Chicago
• Pros & Cons of Living in Chicago
• Best Neighborhoods in the Chicago
• Cost of living in Chicago
• Chicago job market
• Major industries in Chicago
• Top Career Options in Chicago
• Best things to do in Chicago
• Education System in Chicago
• Type of insurance required in Chicago
• Taxes in Chicago

Quick Facts of Chicago

Let us have a look at some interesting facts about Chicago

Top reasons to move to Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant city with unlimited opportunities in various ways. Here are some top reasons that justify your move to Chicago

Pros & Cons of Living in Chicago

Before you decide to move to a new city, you should learn all the positive remarks about the city as well as the negative ones. So, here we have listed all the pros and cons of living in Chicago.

Source: Chicago Magazine

Best Neighborhoods in the Chicago

Finding a perfect neighborhood for your family in a new city is challenging and Van Lines Move wants to simplify your relocation in all possible ways. So, we have listed the best neighborhoods in the city for you- 

Source: Livability.com

Cost of living in Chicago

The cost of living in Chicago is slightly higher than the national average. The cost of living index in Chicago is 138.9 which is evaluated by considering the cost of groceries, housing, transportation, utilities etc. If you are moving to Chicago, then you need to keep all these expenses in mind while preparing the moving budget. 

For easy assessment of the cost of living in Chicago, we have listed all the major expense-

Source: Numbeo

Housing Market in Chicago 

The housing market in Chicago is currently experiencing some fluctuations and the prices are slightly higher than last year. The median home price in Chicago in September 2023 was $335,000. It is predicted that the housing market in Chicago will continue to improve in the coming year. The housing market in Chicago is affected by many factors including the economy, interest rates and supply of homes. 

Average rental cost in Chicago

The average rental cost of a house in Chicago ranges between $1,399 and $2,669 per month. The average rental cost depends on the size and location of the property. 

Chicago job market

Most people relocate to a new city to find a better job and grow on their current designation. If you are moving to Chicago for any of the given options then you should understand the status of the job market. 

The job market in Chicago is currently strong and there are ample job opportunities in various industries. There are many Fortune 500 companies in Chicago. The unemployment rate in the city is 4.6% which is slightly below the national average. 

Top Career Options in Chicago

Choose the right career option from the table given here- 

Median Salary in Chicago

The median salary in Chicago in 2021 was $65,781 which is higher than the national median household income. The median household income in Chicago has been increasing in recent years. 

Major industries in Chicago

These are some of the major industries and employers of Chicago- 

Source: Chicago Regional Commission

Best things to do in Chicago

The Windy City has a lot to offer when it comes to fun and enjoyment. Here are a few things that you can do while you are in Chicago- 

Education System in Chicago

A good school or college will help you get a quality education at all the stages. But finding the right school can be challenging, so we have listed the top schools, colleges and universities in Chicago- 

Transportation & Navigation in Chicago

The transportation and navigation in Chicago are considered efficient as the city has a well-developed public transportation system. The city has a network of highways and expressways and offers paths for walking and biking. 

Public Transportation- The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates “L” trains, buses and taxis in the city. 

The “L” Train- This a rapid transit system that has eight lines including- Red, Blue, Orange, Green, Brown, Pink, Purple and Yellow. 

Buses- The city has a network of buses that runs around the city and you can get around the city conveniently and affordably. 

Taxis- In Chicago, taxis are readily available on the street and you can call one when you need them. Taxis can be an expensive mode of commuting. 

Biking- Chicago is a bike-friendly city which has designated lanes and trails for biking. Can use bike-sharing programs in the city to rent a bike. This is one of the best ways to get around the city. 

Walking- The city has many pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods that make Chicago a walkable city. You can walk to the city attractions, green spaces and parks to enjoy. 

Navigation- Chicago is a large city and you might need a navigation app to get around. Google Maps, Apple Maps and Waze are the navigation apps available online. 

Type of insurance required in Chicago

Insurance is required to provide financial assistance in different scenarios- 

Auto Insurance- All drivers in Illinois are required to have automobile insurance and this has minimum liability of 

$25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person in accident.

$50,000 for bodily injury or death of more than one person in accident.

$20,000 for damage to property of another person.

Worker’s Compensation Insurance- All employers in Illinois have to carry worker’s compensation insurance for their employees. This insurance covers employees in the event of a work-related injury or illness. 

General Liability Insurance- This type of insurance is not required by law in Chicago but it is recommended for all size businesses. This will protect businesses from liability claims arising from property damage and disability injury. 

Professional Liability Insurance- This type of insurance is not required for certain professions like doctors, lawyers, and architects. This type of insurance will protect the professionals from liability claims arising from their work. 

Source: Illinois Secretary of State, Illinois Department of Insurance

Taxes in Chicago

When you move to a new city, you need to learn about the different taxes you have to pay there. In Chicago you have to pay the following taxes as per their applicability- 

Income Tax- The residents of Chicago have to pay income tax as per their taxable income. The income tax rate in Chicago is 2.75% for the residents and 1.75% for non-residents. 

Sales Tax- The sales tax is applicable on most of the retail purchases, and the rate for sales tax in Chicago is 10.25%. 

Property Tax- The property tax is evaluated based on the assessed value of your property and its rate is 1%. 

Utility Tax- There is a utility tax in Chicago that is applied to natural gas, water and electricity. The utility tax rate in Chicago is 3%. 

Motor vehicle tax- This tax applies to all the vehicles registered in Chicago. It is $150 per car. 

Parking tax- There is a parking tax of $3 per hour in Chicago and it is applied to on-street parking in the River North and Loop neighborhoods. 

Hotel Tax- There is a hotel tax in Chicago of 16.4% which is applied to the cost of your hotel 

FAQs

• 1. What should you know about state-to-state car transportation?

  Ans: Transporting a car across the state borders can be daunting but with a service provider by your side, you can get it done without stress. If you plan to transport your car with a professional mover, then there are two options-

  Open Carrier: This is the most common and cost-effective method, but your car will be exposed to weather and road debris.

  Enclosed Carrier: Provides protection from the elements, ideal for luxury or antique vehicles, but comes with a higher price tag.

  You can explore the facts associated with car transportation at https://www.vanlinesmove.com/blog/facts-about-transporting-a-car. Request a moving estimate now to find a company for your car transportation.

• 2. How can you determine the size of the storage unit you need?

  Ans: If you are looking for a storage unit to keep your belongings safe for short or long-term, you need to find the right size of the storage unit. Here are some points you need to remember while calculating the approximate size-

  Take Inventory of Your Items and sort out the items you wish to keep in storage.

  Calculate the size of the bulky items like furniture, appliances, and large boxes.

  Get an approximate number of boxes you might keep in storage.

  Use an online storage size calculator to calculate the size.

  Compare Unit Sizes

  Common unit sizes include:

  5x5 (25 sq. Ft.): Ideal for small items, seasonal decor, and personal items.

  10x10 (100 sq. Ft.): Can accommodate the contents of a one-bedroom apartment.

  10x20 (200 sq. Ft.): Suitable for the contents of a multi-bedroom house.

• 3. What are the steps to update voter registration and driver's license when moving to Chicago?

  Ans: You can update your voter registration by visiting this website- Register to Vote/Change Name/Change Address | Chicago Board of Elections (chicagoelections.gov).

  To update your driver's license in Chicago, follow these steps:

  Visit a Secretary of State Driver Services facility and take your photo and any required exams.

  Receive a temporary, secure paper DL/ID at the facility.

  After review and verification of documents, your new permanent standard DL/ID will be mailed to you within 15 business days.

  If you need to change your address, visit a DMV facility in person, bring acceptable identification, and pay the appropriate fee.

• 4. What is the significance of State Street for shopping in Chicago?

  Ans: State Street holds a significant place in Chicago's shopping scene, both historically and today, for a few reasons:

  Historical Importance: It's been a major shopping destination since the 1900s.

  Variety of Stores: State Street offers a diverse range of stores, from the world's second-largest Macy's to high-end retailers like Anthropologie and Zara, alongside budget-friendly options.

  Convenient Location: It is easily accessible by public transport and close to other popular tourist destinations like Millennium Park.

• 5. What are some popular shopping destinations in Chicago?

  Ans: Here are some popular shopping destinations in Chicago:

  The Magnificent Mile: It is a shopper's paradise, boasting over 450 stores including luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel, and more.

  State Street: It holds historical significance and offers a diverse range of stores.

  Fashion Outlets of Chicago: Visit Fashion Outlets of Chicago in Des Plaines to explore brands like Coach, Kate Spade New York, and Calvin Klein.

  Wicker Park/Bucktown/Wicker Park Bucktown: It boasts a vibrant shopping scene with a mix of independent boutiques, vintage stores, and art galleries.

  Andersonville: It offers a unique shopping experience with a mix of ethnic shops, local boutiques, and independent bookstores.

  Oak Street: For luxury shopping, Oak Street is the place to go.

• 6. Which museums and attractions are popular in Chicago?

  Ans: Chicago has a wealth of museums and attractions catering to a wide range of interests. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  Art Institute of Chicago: Renowned for its vast collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings, including works by Monet, Renoir, and van Gogh.

  Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago: Explore interactive exhibits covering everything from space exploration to the human body.

  Field Museum of Natural History: Explore SUE the T-Rex skeleton, Egyptian mummies, and a vast collection of artifacts spanning natural history and anthropology.

  Adler Planetarium: Gaze at the stars, explore the universe, and learn about space exploration.

  Shedd Aquarium: Explore a diverse array of aquatic life from the world's oceans.

  Navy Pier: Enjoy a variety of entertainment options, shops, restaurants, and stunning views of Lake Michigan.

  Millennium Park: Home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture and Lurie Garden.

  Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower): Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

• 7. What kinds of theater and entertainment options are available in Chicago?

  Ans: Here's a glimpse into Chicago's theater scene:

  Broadway in Chicago: Experience the magic of Broadway musicals right in Chicago. Catch a show at the James M. Nederlander Theatre, the Oriental Theatre, and the Cadillac Palace Theatre.

  Chicago Theatres: Beyond Broadway productions, Chicago boasts a vibrant theater scene with a multitude of professional companies staging plays, musicals, and experimental productions. Some renowned organizations include Steppenwolf Theatre Company, The Second City, and Goodman Theatre.

  Improv and Comedy: Chicago has a long and illustrious history of improvisational comedy, pioneered by The Second City.

  Music and Dance: From intimate jazz clubs to renowned symphony orchestras, Chicago has a thriving music scene.

  Unique Entertainment: Unique entertainment options including magic shows, dinner theaters, and architectural tours that explore the city's theatrical history.

  No matter your preferences, you're sure to find something to keep you entertained in Chicago's dynamic theater scene.

• 8. What senior living options and healthcare facilities are available in Chicago?

  Ans: Chicago offers a variety of senior living options and healthcare facilities to cater to the diverse needs of its aging population.

  Independent Living Communities: Offer private apartments or condos with amenities like housekeeping, meals, and social events for active seniors

  Explore

  Mercy Circle Senior Living

  Autumn Green at Midway Village

  Senior Suites of Chicago (various locations)

  Assisted Living Communities

  Assist with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management.

  Offer a social environment with meals, housekeeping, and organized activities.

  Explore

  The Sheridan at Park Ridge

  Covenant Home of Chicago

  Belmont Village Senior Living (various locations)

  Memory Care Communities: Specialize in caring for seniors with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.

  Secure facilities with specially trained staff to provide round-the-clock care, supervision, and programs to meet the cognitive needs of residents.

  Explore

  Autumn Leaves (various locations)

  Warren Barr Memory Care (various locations)

  Skilled Nursing Facilities (Nursing Homes)

  Provide 24-hour medical care for seniors who require a high level of assistance like rehabilitation therapy, medication management, and assistance with all daily activities.

  Suitable for seniors who need constant medical attention and cannot live safely at home.

  No matter your preferences, you're sure to find something to keep you entertained in Chicago's dynamic theater scene.

• 9. How significant is the Transportation, Distribution & Logistics (TDL) sector in Chicago?

  Ans: The Significance of the TDL Sector in Chicago

  Chicago stands as a powerhouse in the Transportation, Distribution & Logistics (TDL) sector, surpassing every other U.S. City in terms of its industrial prominence. Remarkably, since 2010, the city has welcomed over 200 TDL start-ups, underscoring its dynamic growth.

  Chicago's TDL sector also thrives on innovation, including substantial investments in research and development for high-tech autonomous vehicles.

  Chicago's TDL sector is a critical hub for both current operations and future advancements, highlighting its paramount significance in the industry.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. It is recommended to conduct thorough research and consult relevant experts before making any decisions related to relocation.