Moving to Chicago

Tucked between the American heartland and Lake Michigan, Chicago offers a vibrant, multicultural and business-oriented experience in northeastern Illinois. Chicago is America's third-largest city and keeps investing in itself, continuously improving infrastructure and education, and – as expats will notice – courting the world's largest companies to relocate their headquarters to within its windy borders.

Living in Chicago as an expat

New arrivals looking for employment in Chicago will discover a wide range of industries that cater for a variety of specialised fields in the city. With such a diverse job market, newcomers with skills in finance, manufacturing, IT, health services, and transport and distribution shouldn't experience much difficulty when looking for work. 

A wide range of accommodation options is available in Chicago, and new arrivals to the city are sure to find something that suits their needs and lifestyle. Fortunately, housing prices in Chicago are also on the lower side compared to other major US cities. There's a wide range of areas and suburbs to choose from, each with its own unique atmosphere. Living outside of the city centre is also not a problem, as all areas are well serviced by Chicago's efficient public transport network. 

While health insurance is one of the more significant expenses expats will need to account for when moving anywhere in the USA, those relocating to Chicago can rest assured that they will have access to good quality medical services. The city is home to some of the best hospitals in the USA, primarily due to the presence of many medical schools. 

Cost of living in Chicago

While the cost of living in Chicago is considerably higher than the national average, it is lower than many other large American cities such as New York City and San Francisco. The high cost of living is also offset by the fact that salaries in Chicago are also higher than the national average. 

Families and children in Chicago

Those moving to Chicago with children will be pleased to find that the city offers a solid range of private and international schooling options. Not only that, but the city is incredibly family-friendly and offers plenty of attractions to keep kids busy on the weekends. 

Outdoor spaces abound in Chicago, from the shoreline of Lake Michigan to Lincoln Park. There are also numerous waterparks, theme parks and an interactive children's museum where they can spend an afternoon of educational fun. 

Climate in Chicago

Weather in Chicago is informed by a humid continental climate with distinct seasonal variations. Summers are warm to hot, often accompanied by high humidity, with average high temperatures peaking in the mid-80s°F (around 30°C). Winters can be harsh, characterised by cold temperatures, snow and the infamous 'lake-effect' snowstorms driven by the nearby Lake Michigan. The city often sees temperatures fall below freezing, with averages in the 20s and 30s°F (-6 to 1°C). Expats from milder climates may require some time to adjust to the city's brisk winter temperatures, but many find the summer's heat and the beauty of the city's four distinct seasons to be worth the winter chill.

For those contemplating a move to Chicago, the city presents an engaging blend of opportunities and lifestyle options. From its diverse job market, wide range of accommodations, high-quality medical services and well-established education system to its family-friendly attractions and unique climate, Chicago indeed has much to offer.

Although it's dubbed the 'Windy City', its charm extends beyond the fresh winds, offering a vibrant living experience that uniquely marries the hustle and bustle of a big city with the warmth and hospitality of the American Midwest. With continuous infrastructure improvements and strategic economic advancements, it's a city that never stops evolving, making it an exciting and dynamic place for newcomers to call home.