🇺🇸 Chicago vs 🇺🇸 New York
United States vs United States — relocation comparison
Settler Essentials
Chicago vs New York: The Short Version
- •Rent is 71% cheaper in Chicago ($2409/mo vs $4113/mo for a 1BR city centre).
- •Summers are slightly warmer in New York (28°C vs 27°C).
- •New York is safer by homicide rate (5.8 vs 18.2 per 100k).
Chicago vs New York — Common Questions
Is Chicago cheaper than New York?▾
Chicago is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $2409/month in Chicago vs $4113/month in the other city (Numbeo data).
Which is safer, Chicago or New York?▾
New York is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Chicago has a rate of 18.20 per 100,000 and New York has 5.80 per 100,000.
Should I move to Chicago or New York?▾
New York edges ahead on most metrics. Chicago isn't far behind — it depends what matters to you. See the full comparison above for rent, safety, internet speed, climate, and democracy scores to decide which city fits your priorities.
Is it easier to get residency in Chicago or New York?▾
Chicago: US Employment-Based Green Card (complex process, Permanent residence). New York: US Employment-Based Green Card (complex process, Permanent residence). See each city's profile page for full requirements.
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