A move is such a crucial part of anyone’s life. Changing one’s location, especially coming to an entirely different area can have a significant impact on your life, progress, professional success, and on helping you define to yourself who you really are. Seems exaggerated? Actually, it isn’t, because our neighborhood can affect both our and the life of our children.
Nevertheless, relocation is both an exciting and a stressful period of our life. Chicago area, with its suburbs, is such a beautiful place to live. But yet, there are so many things to get used to when considering moving to this large metropolitan area in Illinois. Let’s mention some of them:
‘Loving Neighbors’ is an actual thing here
Whether you move into the city area or the suburbs, your neighbors will surely accept you. One of the things most people love about relocating to Chicago area is being warmly welcomed by the neighborhood. Especially for the families, suburban areas such as Buffalo Grove and Libertyville are the best to raise children in with the friendly people around you. Chicago is one of the cities that take pride in the diversity and acceptance of the newcomers. We can confirm that when you come to Chicago, even though it’s a vast city, you just feel the warmth of a small town.
Chicago’s suburban neighborhoods offer a unique blend of community spirit and peaceful living. Areas like Evanston, Oak Park, and Naperville are known for their safe environments, excellent schools, and community events that bring residents together. The blend of big-city amenities and friendly neighborhoods makes Chicago a place where newcomers feel at home quickly, whether they’re young professionals, families, or retirees.
Public transportation is great
Many people across the US are just used to having a car and feeling like they’re not able to live without it. In Chicago, the situation is different – you can rely on the excellent public transit. Even if you don’t want to but don’t have a car yet, getting an Uber, or even car sharing are such accessible and affordable options.
Chicago’s public transportation network includes buses, trains, and “L” trains, which make commuting easy and affordable. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) covers extensive routes throughout the city and suburbs, offering a viable alternative to driving. For those living downtown or near popular areas, public transit can save time and reduce expenses. Additionally, the Divvy bike-sharing program and pedestrian-friendly layout of many neighborhoods make alternative transportation accessible to everyone.
Cold, yet cozy
We’ve got bad news for the ones who just moved to Chicago. Winters are freezing! There is no way to be fashionable in the winter time. A warm coat and boots just as warm are a necessity. For the commuters and the ones who like taking walks – prepare for a cold winter. If you hate cold weather, at least it’s a great motivation to save up for a vacation in a tropical destination for the Christmas holidays.
The Windy City will make you appreciate summer so much more! Also, this cold winter makes you want to gather up in a warm house with all your friends and get cozy – just hang out more. It has its bright side, doesn’t it?
Chicago winters, while cold, have their charm. The city lights up with holiday decorations, cozy coffee shops become popular hangouts, and residents find joy in seasonal activities like ice skating at Millennium Park. In addition, many neighborhoods organize winter markets and events, providing plenty of reasons to get out and explore. Embracing the cold weather is part of the Chicago experience, making the arrival of spring and summer all the more exciting.
The gorgeous lakeside
What does this city have that the others don’t? A beautiful lakeside which is a real jewel, especially in the spring and summer time – it’s such a perk! There are so many ways to make use of these beaches and the overall city’s 18.5-mile lakefront. The lake is what gives a little extra magic to the Chicago area – some can enjoy long bike rides and walks along the beach, or swimming during the summer. When the sunny days come, it’s easy to make the most out of this outdoor area and greenery around the lake.
Chicago’s lakefront includes popular areas like North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, and Montrose Beach. Residents enjoy a wide range of activities here, from kayaking and paddleboarding to beach volleyball and sunbathing. The lakefront trail, stretching for miles, is a favorite for joggers, cyclists, and walkers, providing breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. This unique natural setting offers Chicagoans an escape from the urban landscape, making the lakefront an invaluable part of city life.
It is possible to find affordable real estate
Even though there are some wealthy areas in Chicago (Schaumburg, Lake Zurich, etc.), it is possible to find places with the lower rents and overall real estate pricing. Chicago is overall a bargain comparing cities like San Francisco. Just find a professional moving company like STI Moving & Storage Inc. and come here. Our Windy City is the best!
For those considering a move to Chicago, the city offers a variety of housing options across diverse neighborhoods. Affordable options can be found in neighborhoods like Rogers Park, Albany Park, and Edgewater, which offer more budget-friendly rent and home prices compared to downtown or more affluent suburbs. Chicago’s varied real estate market allows residents to find a home that fits their lifestyle and budget, whether they prefer a bustling city environment or a quieter suburban setting.
Conclusion
Relocating to Chicago brings a mix of excitement and new challenges. From welcoming neighbors and fantastic public transit options to the charm of winter and a beautiful lakeside, the Windy City offers a rich living experience for all. Chicago’s affordability compared to other major cities makes it an appealing choice for people seeking big-city amenities without the extreme costs. With careful planning and an open mind, moving to Chicago can be a fulfilling and transformative journey. Welcome to the Windy City – your new adventure awaits!
