{"id":83561,"date":"2026-06-04T13:50:16","date_gmt":"2026-06-04T20:50:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=83561"},"modified":"2026-06-05T09:36:43","modified_gmt":"2026-06-05T16:36:43","slug":"is-chicago-a-good-place-to-live","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/is-chicago-a-good-place-to-live\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Chicago a Good Place to Live?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Chicago has a way of winning people over slowly. At first, it might be the skyline, the lakefront, the food, or the energy of a city where something is always happening. But for many residents, what makes Chicago feel livable is its mix of big-city opportunity and distinct neighborhood personality. From quiet tree-lined streets to lively downtown blocks, the city offers a wide range of lifestyles within one place. Still, life in Chicago is not for everyone. The winters can be harsh,\u00a0 but its blend of urban energy, community spirit, and affordability compared to other large metros makes it an exceptional place to call home.<\/span><\/p>\n

So, is Chicago, IL, a good place to live? <\/span>Whether you’re considering a <\/span>starter townhome<\/span><\/a> or browsing <\/span>homes for sale in Chicago,<\/span><\/a> learn what it’s like to live in one of the country’s most dynamic cities.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Chicago<\/p>\n

Quick Facts about Chicago<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Median home sale price<\/b><\/td>\n$395,400<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Active listings<\/b><\/td>\n26,679<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Days on market<\/b><\/td>\n51<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Walk Score<\/b><\/td>\n77\/100<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Transit Score<\/b><\/td>\n65\/100<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Bike Score<\/b><\/td>\n72\/100<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

What\u2019s it like to live in Chicago?<\/span><\/h2>\n

Living in Chicago<\/span><\/a> often feels like living in several cities at once. Downtown has the high-rises, museums, theaters, and riverfront views people picture when they think of the city, while neighborhoods outside the Loop feel more local and distinct. Places like Lincoln Park, Logan Square, Hyde Park, Lakeview, Wicker Park, Andersonville, and Pilsen each have their own personality, housing styles, restaurants, parks, and sense of community.<\/span><\/p>\n

That neighborhood feel is one of Chicago\u2019s biggest strengths. Residents can choose between busy, walkable areas with nightlife and transit nearby, or quieter residential streets with parks, schools, and local coffee shops. Even with its major-city pace, Chicago still leaves room for everyday routines that feel personal, whether that means walking to the train, meeting friends at a corner bar, or heading to the lake when the weather finally turns warm.<\/span><\/p>\n

1. A vibrant arts and culture scene<\/span><\/h2>\n

Chicago\u2019s creative side is hard to miss. You can spend an afternoon wandering through the Art Institute, catch a show beneath the glowing marquee of the Chicago Theatre, or stumble across live music at a neighborhood festival. The city\u2019s arts scene is not limited to one district or one type of experience \u2013 it shows up in jazz clubs, gallery walks, dance performances, public murals, summer festivals, and historic venues across the city.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI’ve been to nearly 50 countries and all 50 U.S. states, but every time I return to Chicago, I’m reminded why it’s easily the best city in the U.S. The food scene is unmatched, with options, sometimes even an entire neighborhood, for whatever you’re craving. Even in winter, which is truly character-building, there are endless cultural options to escape the ice and snow indoors. Perhaps most importantly, no matter where you go and how long you’re gone, Chicago will welcome you back with open arms when you’re ready to come back. There is a fierce loyalty there that simply doesn’t exist anywhere else,\u201d Agnes Groonwald<\/span>, with <\/span>Travel on the Reg<\/span><\/a> shares.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. High sales taxes<\/span><\/h2>\n

One cost that can catch people off guard in Chicago is the sales tax. At 10.25%, the city\u2019s combined sales tax rate is higher than in many other major U.S. cities, since it includes state, county, city, and regional taxes. It may not seem like much on a single purchase, but it can add up over time, especially when buying furniture, electronics, or other big-ticket items. While these tax revenues help fund public services and infrastructure, they can also increase the overall cost of living for residents.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Chicago<\/p>\n

3. Exciting sports and entertainment options<\/span><\/h2>\n

Chicago makes it easy to fill your calendar, no matter what kind of entertainment you enjoy. ports are a big part of the city\u2019s rhythm, with fans showing up for the <\/span>\u00a0Chicago Cubs, White Sox, Bulls, Bears, and Blackhawks. The city is also home to world-class theater, with the Steppenwolf Theatre Company and the Goodman Theatre offering outstanding productions. Music lovers can enjoy various genres at famous venues like the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the iconic blues clubs of the city\u2019s South Side. After dark, neighborhoods like River North, Wicker Park, Logan Square, and West Loop offer everything from cocktail bars and lounges to late-night music spots, giving Chicago a nightlife scene that feels both energetic and varied.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Cost of living<\/span><\/h2>\n

Chicago’s <\/span>cost of living<\/span><\/a> is higher than that of many cities in the Midwest, largely due to the <\/span>housing market<\/span><\/a> and the expenses that come with living in a major metropolitan area. Lifestyle costs, along with costs associated with transportation, groceries,\u00a0 and healthcare, are above the national average, while utility costs are slightly below the national average.<\/span><\/p>\n

Some examples of how the cost of living in Chicago stacks up against the national average:<\/span><\/p>\n