Moving to Chicago from the UK is an exciting opportunity, whether it’s to further your career, be close to family, or for a fresh start! Known for its impressive Art Deco architecture, iconic deep-dish pizza, and world-class museums, Chicago offers something for everyone.
From the iconic skyline along Lake Michigan to its bustling cosy residential areas, the Windy City has so much to explore. The third largest U.S. city, Chicago boasts diverse neighbourhoods, a rich culture, and a passionate sports community, making it an ideal location for British and Irish expats to call home.
1st Move International offer weekly international removals to Chicago from the UK, getting you moved faster and safer than the rest. We’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the ins and outs of moving to Chicago, from how to find a job, to what to get up to on the weekend, we cover it all.
| Quality of Life | |
| Affordability | |
| Safety | |
| Healthcare | |
| Education | |
| Job Market |
Table of Contents
Is It a Good Idea to Move to Chicago?
Chicago is a great city that offers excellent opportunities and experiences, but like most big cities it has its downfalls. That’s why it’s important to understand the pros and cons of moving to Chicago before committing to the big move.
Pros of Moving to Chicago:
Lots of Green Space – For a city, Chicago boasts lots of lush green space for residents to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Millennium Park, Grant Park, Lincoln Park, and the Chicago Riverwalk all provide opportunities to relax outdoors, exercise, or enjoy family activities.
Affordable Cost of Living – Compared to cities like New York and San Francisco, Chicago’s cost of living is affordable. Although it still has a city price tag, rent and daily expenses like groceries and travel remain reasonable.
Thriving Cultural Scene – Chicago is a city that is rich in culture, including art and history. Expect weekly live jazz and blues performances, theatre performances and many museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago.
Cons of Moving to Chicago:
Harsh Winters – Chicago is known to have cold and harsh winters that last a long time. Temperatures drop below freezing, with average lows of -8°C in January. The weather gets extremely hot in the summer months, so this will take some adjusting compared to UK weather.
High Taxes – Chicago’s sales tax rate is amongst the highest in the U.S., combined with Illinois also having high property taxes, costs can add up quickly. However, there is no additional city income tax like cities such as New York.
Crime Rates – There are certain parts of Chicago that suffer from high crime rates, like most large cities. Knowing the right areas to live in will help you feel safer and avoid living near regular crime activity.
Cost of Living in Chicago
The cost of living in Chicago is around 14% higher than the national average but remains lower than in many big cities like Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco. Housing in particular is a big expense for those living in Chicago, but like most cities, you can find more affordable options the further you live outside of the city centre. The median sale price of homes in Chicago during the last year was around $365,000 and a 1-bedroom city centre flat will cost $2,334.69 per month in rent on average.
You should also factor in Sales Tax when thinking of Chicago’s cost of living. Illinois has one of the highest Sales Tax rates in the U.S. at a combined per cent of 10.25%. This is made up of:
- State of Illinois Sales Tax – 6.25%
- Cook County Sales Tax – 1.75%
- City of Chicago Sales Tax – 1.25%
Chicago is the biggest city in Illinois and a financial and business hub, so it’s more expensive than the state capital Springfield. Rent, restaurant, and grocery prices are 39.2%, 35.3%, and 23.1% higher in Chicago than in Springfield, respectively. A meal for 2 people in a mid-range restaurant costs $50 in Springfield and $100 in Chicago. However, utilities are much cheaper in Chicago, with basic monthly utilities costing $182.20, 8% more affordable than Springfield. Mobile phone bills in Chicago come in at 15% cheaper too. To make up for the higher living costs, the average monthly salary is $4,968.26 in Chicago, 35.8% higher.
If we compare this to the UK, then rent prices are 24% lower in Chicago than in London, but 28% higher than in Bristol. Grocery prices are much higher in Chicago than in both London and Bristol. Here are some examples of everyday items:
| Items | Chicago, IL | London, UK |
| 1 Litre of Milk | $1.00 (£0.77) | $1.64 (£1.27) |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread | $4.12 (£3.19) | $1.98 (£1.53) |
| 1kg of White Rice | $5.55 (£4.30) | $2.57 (£1.99) |
| 12 Eggs | $4.32 (£3.35) | $4.63 (£3.59) |
| 1kg of Local Cheese | $14.47 (£11.19) | $11.23 (£8.69) |
| 1kg of Chicken Fillets | $15.01 (£11.61) | $8.85 (£6.85) |
| 1kg of Beef | $18.65 (£14.43) | $13.57 (£10.50) |
| Bottle of Mid Range Wine | $15.00 (£11.61) | $11.63 (£9.00) |
| 0.5 Litre Bottle of Domestic Beer | $2.44 (£1.89) | $3.01 (£2.33) |
Chicago’s Job Market
There has been a slight 0.2% decrease in available jobs in Chicago within the last year, with the Professional and Business Services sector being hit the most. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a total loss of 23,400 jobs over the year, marking a 2.8% decrease in this industry. Sectors like technology, AI, cybersecurity, healthcare, and education experienced growth.
Sectors Experiencing Growth
Technology – Chicago’s tech scene is thriving with endless opportunities in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, driven by local startups and well-known tech companies. Software Developers, Data Analysts, and Cloud Engineers are in demand roles.
Artificial Intelligence – In January 2025, Chicago ranked among the top 10 U.S. metro areas for AI job postings, with approximately 650 openings. In particular, the AI sector is seeking Machine Learning Engineers and AI Research Scientists.
Cybersecurity – The city’s cybersecurity job market is expected to increase in demand by 28% by the end of 2025, fuelled by high demand in the finance, healthcare, and tech sectors. Salaries are high in this sector, averaging between $95,000 to $105,000 for Penetration Tester and Cybersecurity Analyst roles.
Average Salaries for In-Demand and Common Roles
Let’s take a look at the average salary for the tech roles that are in demand, as well as some popular jobs from a range of sectors for comparison:
- Software Developer – $113,434
- AI Machine Learning Engineer – $161,022
- Registered Nurse – $73,300
- Primary School Teacher – $47,772
- Financial Analyst – $80,000
- Industrial Engineer – $85,000
- Hotel Manager – $100,000
Tips for Finding Jobs and Preparing for Interviews in Chicago
- Apply for the right visa. The H-1B Visa for speciality occupations is the most common for skilled workers.
- Research the right industry for you
- Tailor your CV and cover letter for each role you apply for
- Think about tailoring your CV to use American English
- If you’re seeking work in finance, the Loop area is key
- Tech opportunities are often based in Fulton Market and River North
- U.S. interviews often involve behavioural questions, so practice using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
The Housing Market in Chicago
House prices in Chicago remain affordable compared to other large cities, but luxury properties are seeing a decline, making it an ideal market for buyers. The rental market in 2025 is competitive, with not enough properties to feed the demand.
Current Property Market
In 2025, the average sale price for properties in Chicago is $365,000, up 7.7% from 2024. Properties typically receive 2 offers and take 75 days on average to sell, down 5 days from 80 last year. February saw 1,482 homes sold, which is down 4% from the same month last year. Single-family homes average at $319,000, condos at $378,750, and townhouses sell for $505,000.
Townhouses saw the biggest change in price, reducing in value by over 10% from the previous year. This has been a common trend with luxury homes, with a notable example being billionaire Ken Griffin’s selling his penthouse to Governor J.B. Pritzker for a 44% loss. Condos and co-op properties have increased in price year-on-year, increasing by 9.6%. They are also the most widely available properties, with 792 sold in February 2025.
84% of Chicago homebuyers searched to stay within the Chicago metropolitan area, proving that it’s a great place to live.
Rental Market
Chicago’s rental market is the second most competitive in the U.S., seeing high demand for units and limited availability. Rental prices can be high in certain areas such as South Shore, Englewood, and Garfield Park, where almost 70% of renters spend a large portion of their paychecks on rent.
In 2025, a 1-bed flat in the city costs $2,314.03 per month, or $1,541.55 if you were to live outside of the city centre. Costs rise to $4,443.18 for a 3-bed flat or $2,832 for further out of the city. Overall, the average for Chicago is $2,100.
Illinois rental prices are expected to increase by 5.2% by the end of 2025. Studio apartments are forecast to witness the biggest jump of 5.9%, one-bedroom units by 5.3%, and two-bedroom units by 4.8%.
Affordable Housing Efforts
The housing scheme, the Affordable Requirements Ordinance, was set up by Chicago’s Housing Department to try and tackle the rental burden for many residents. It’s funding new multi-family developments and promoting inclusive housing for all.
Green Social Housing is a proposed programme by Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Housing to create sustainable affordable units, with plans to establish an independent nonprofit called a Residential Investment Corporation to oversee development.
Best Chicago Neighbourhoods
Chicago offers diverse neighbourhoods and cultures, from arty vibes to downtown business hubs. Where you choose to live will come down to your budget and preferences. While some areas can be expensive to buy and rent, there remain affordable locations to call home.
Bridgeport
While the property market is affordable in Bridgeport at present, it’s an up-and-coming area of Chicago, so buyers should act fast. The average rental price in Bridgeport is $1,700, 14% lower than the national average and more affordable than Chicago’s median. The average property price in Bridgeport for 2025 is around $405,519, up 0.7% from the previous year, according to Zillow. Single-family homes cost more at $445,908 and condos are more affordable at around $297,870.
The area is well connected with public transport, with the CTA Red and Orange Lines giving easy access to downtown within 20 minutes. Bridgeport is also bike and bus-friendly, making local spots accessible. The area has a rich arts and cultural scene, boasting the Bridgeport Art Center and plenty of community spaces. Close to Chinatown, the local food scene offers classic Chicago eats and new trendy spots like Antique Taco and Maria’s Packaged Goods and Community Bar.
Bridgeport is less touristy than some areas, offering a real local community feel. It’s also home to the Guaranteed Rate Field where the White Sox play baseball. Palmisano Park is a hidden gem, ideal for families and couples to enjoy fishing, walking trails, and stunning skyline views of Chicago.
Edgewater
Edgewater offers lakefront living on a budget, remaining one of the cheapest lakeside neighbourhoods. Close to the beach, laid-back, and plenty of local businesses, Edgewater has a strong community vibe. Demand for property is growing for these reasons, but property prices remain affordable in the neighbourhood.
The average property value is $240,831 in Edgewater, up 6.7% from the previous year. Single-family homes are pricier at $313,127, while condos remain a budget-friendly option at $218,414. Monthly rent averages at $1,650, up 10% in the last year, but lower than Chicago’s median, making it attractive for renters. 4-bedroom flats have increased the most in price, rising by 20% to $3,756.
Dining in Edgewater offers a blend of international foods, reflecting the diverse community. A haven for foodies, Edgewater is known for Middle Eastern, Thai, and Eastern European cuisine, with Ethiopian Diamond and Mango Pickle being some fan favourites. Public transport is also excellent in the neighbourhood, with the CTA Red Line making travel across the city easy. Express bus routes connect Edgewater with the city’s business district, The Loop, for professionals wanting an easy work commute.
Pilsen
Pilsen is a vibrant neighbourhood in Chicago, known for its art scene, Mexican heritage, and community feel. The neighbourhood is growing in popularity, which is reflected in its higher and rising house prices. In 2025, the average property price stands at $420,173, up 0.7% on last year. You can get a condo for slightly cheaper at $379,893, but single-family homes are more pricier at $446,563. Average rental prices are also slightly higher at $2,095 per month, with 2-bed homes averaging around $1,773.
Pilsen is an easily walkable neighbourhood, but for those needing to commute to 18th Street, Damen, or the Loop, then the CTA Pink Line provides easy access. It’s also near major highways like the I-90/94 and I-55 if you’ll be driving in Chicago. With an abundance of outdoor activity space, Pilsen offers plenty of opportunities for families and those living alone to enjoy. Residents can swim or use the sports field in Harrison Park, or enjoy the peace at Pilsen Community Garden. Pilsen is also close to the Chicago Riverwalk and Ping Tom Memorial Park for scenic walks.
Pilsen is known locally as having some of the best authentic Mexican food in the city, with Nuevo León and Carnitas Uruapan being some of the favourites. If cocktails are your thing, then La Luna’s are well-loved, offering contemporary Latin food. Coffee shops and breweries are popular in Pilsen, with many locals gathering at places like Jumping Bean Café, Lo Rez Brewing, and Alulu Brewpub.
Logan Square
Logan Square is a sought-after area in Chicago, but property prices remain moderate compared to other large cities. It offers a good blend of family-owned businesses as well as new spots, however, some longtime businesses and residents are being priced out due to gentrification.
The average house price in 2025 is $478,176, up 1.4% from the previous year. It’ll cost on average $572,847 for single-family homes in Logan Square, which are in high demand at present. Condos cost around $379,236 on average. Rent is also higher at $2,200, slightly higher than Chicago’s average. Although rental prices have decreased by 2% over the last year, there is constant demand for properties in Logan Square due to its historic charm, nightlife scene, and recent gentrification.
A big draw for young professionals and those with active social lives in Logan Square is the excellent public transport system. Providing a direct route to O’Hare Airport, the CTA Blue Line gets residents to downtown Chicago in 20 minutes. Logan Square is also served by multiple bus routes, ensuring residents can get easy access to all parts of the city. Nicknamed the Hipster Highway, Milwaukee Avenue is cyclist-friendly, offering another route to explore the city.
Chicago’s Healthcare System
Chicago has one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the States and is home to some high-ranking hospitals such as Northwestern Memorial Hospital and the University of Chicago Medical Center.
Hospitals in Chicago
Northwestern Memorial Hospital is ranked the best in Illinois and is known for its excellent services in cardiology, oncology, and neurosurgery. The flagship hospital is near downtown Chicago, in Streeterville, and the health system has many hospitals across Illinois.
The University of Chicago Medical Center is leading the way with its research into cancer as well as gastroenterology and paediatrics. Opened in 2018, its Level 1 Adult Trauma Center acts as a lifeline for those on the South Side.
John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County Health is a major hospital in Chicago, providing special care for trauma injuries, and emergency services, and offering a helping hand for those uninsured and underinsured.
Insurance and Schemes
Chicago residents typically get access to healthcare through their employer’s health insurance scheme or private schemes. Residents also have access to the U.S’ Medicaid and Medicare. The state of Illinois’s Medicaid offers increased coverage for their low-income residents to ensure everyone has access to healthcare.
There are also non-profits like Erie Family Health Centers and Lawndale Christian Health Center which help those uninsured and with low incomes to access essential services. They are funded by the federal government so they can provide low-cost services, often charged on a sliding scale depending on income. One of the largest community health providers in Chicago, Erie Family Health Centers serves over 80,000 residents per year and has centers in the suburbs as well as the city including; Humboldt Park, West Town, Evanston, and the South and West Sides.
Cost of Chicago Healthcare Services
The cost of healthcare services in Chicago will vary heavily depending on your insurance status. Let’s explore some healthcare costs in Chicago based on your insurance status:
- Doctor’s Visit – For uninsured patients, a doctor’s visit including a physical exam and any tests will cost around $397. Insured patients pay around $20, but this varies depending on the insurance plan and coverage.
- CT Scan – Costs for uninsured patients to have a CT scan range between $300 and $6,750, depending on the level of scan. Costs for
- insured patients vary as some insurance companies will pay it all or cover part.
- Knee Replacement – Patients needing a knee replacement have to pay around $31,124 without insurance. Insured patients typically have to pay around 20% of the total cost, but this varies by insurance company and plan type.
- Hospital Stay Per Day – A one-night hospital stay is approximately $2,883 for those uninsured, and approximately $200-$500 with copay insurance.
- ER Visit – A visit to the Emergency Room costs on average $2,715 without insurance and $646 for those contributing out-of-pocket costs with insurance.
Schools and Universities in Chicago
Chicago schools are served by the Chicago Public Schools district, covering 300,000 students and 600 schools. The city is home to some of the most prestigious schools and higher education facilities.
Check School Ratings
Before enrolling your children into a school in Chicago, it’s always worth checking the ratings of the school. GreatSchool provides the rating for all Chicago public schools. It uses a system that assesses academic performance, parent reviews, and test scores. Another website called Niche.com is a good resource for rankings and reviews of both public and private options in Chicago.
Enrolling Children in School as British Expats
There are no restrictions on enrolling your child in a Chicago school as a British expat, including magnet, charter, and neighbourhood schools. This can be done through the GoCPS system but you will need proof of residency within the local area of the school. Additionally, you will need proof of your child’s age, vaccination records, and identification. Each school will have different criteria, so understanding the specific requirements and deadlines will result in a smooth enrollment process.
Best Chicago Public Schools
Chicago offers many highly rated public schools for its residents, including magnet schools, charter schools, and neighbourhood schools. Some of the best in the area include Lane Tech College Prep, Whitney M. Young Magnet High School, and Northside College Prep, all of which are known for strong academic performance and college preparation. Under the public school system, Chicago Public Schools district, there are also Selective Enrollment Schools, designed for high-performing students to thrive in their studies and prepare for college.
Chicago Private Schools
Although public schools follow similar studies to British schools and are taught in English, there are some private schools in Chicago that follow the British curriculum or offer International Baccalaureate programs. The British International School of Chicago follows the British curriculum, so will be most similar to UK school teachings.
Higher Education Options in Chicago
Fortunately for Chicago residents, the city is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the U.S. The University of Chicago is very highly ranked worldwide and is especially praised for its humanities, social sciences, and science programmes. The Illinois Institute of Technology specialises in engineering, computer science, and architecture, with their programmes being well regarded.
Travelling Around Chicago
Not many Chicagoans drive in the city due to congested traffic. Fortunately, public transport is extensive throughout the city and the suburbs, and downtown is easily walkable.
CTA “L” Train
The CTA “L” train is a popular mode of transport for commuters, with the Red Line being the most commonly used. It serves popular areas like Lakeview, Lincoln Park, downtown, Chinatown, and the South Side. The Blue Line connects O’Hare International Airport to downtown. Both Red and Blue Lines operate 24/7 and single fares cost $2.50.
CTA Bus
The Chicago bus system, CTA Buses, covers 129 routes and serves areas the “L” Train doesn’t. Buses run regularly but take longer due to busy city traffic. Tickets are affordable at $2.25 for a single ride. For a convenient and scenic route, try the 151 Sheridan which runs from downtown to the North Side passing along Lake Michigan.
Metra
The Metra is a commuter rail system designed to help those who commute from the suburbs. It costs more than to CTA “L” Train, but if you’re travelling long distances it gets you there quicker. Mainly used by those living in suburban areas like Evanston, Naperville, or Oak Park.
Walking
Walking is a great way to see Chicago, and luckily for its residents, the city is one of the most walkable in the U.S. Popular areas like The Loop, River North, Lincoln Park, and Wicker Park are easy to get around on foot.
Driving
Many residents in Chicago avoid driving, especially in the downtown area during rush hour. Traffic can get congested, causing delays. Street and garage parking is expensive, and coupled with the traffic, most people are much better off using public transport.
Driver’s License and Shipping My Car to Chicago
Once you’ve become an Illinois resident, you have 90 days to get your Illinois driver’s license as your UK one is no longer valid. To apply, you will need to visit the Illinois Secretary of State’s office with your UK passport, visa/residency status, and UK driving license. You may need to take a driving test, but this varies by office, as holding a valid UK license may be sufficient enough for some. Passing a vision and writing test may also be necessary.
Our sister company, Autoshippers, can get your car moved safely and swiftly to Chicago from all across the UK. It’ll cost roughly £1,205 to ship a standard saloon car from the UK and we will need a few important documents to do this such as the vehicle’s V5 and your passport. You can find the full list of documents for car shipping to the U.S. in this handy guide.
Chicago’s Climate
Chicago’s climate is classed as a humid continental climate, which means it experiences all seasons with drastic differences.
Winter in Chicago can get extremely cold, with wind chill from Lake Michigan making it feel even colder. You can expect around 34-40 inches of snow per year in the city, mainly falling between December and February. During the winter months, temperatures reach as low as -12°C, with highs of 2°C
Summer runs between June and August in Chicago and temperatures reach as high as 32°C, sometimes seeing highs of 35°C during heatwaves. Thunderstorms are common during these months, with hot and humid temperatures throughout the summer.
Spring in Chicago sees temperatures range from 2°C to 21°C, with a chilly start and temperatures warming up by May. Thunderstorms are more likely in spring too. Autumn is the most comfortable season in Chicago, with temperatures from 10°C to 24°C. By mid-October, parks are full of autumnal colours, so it’s worth strolling through Millennium Park and Lincoln Park.
Attractions and Activities in Chicago
Chicago is home to iconic landmarks, with endless activities to explore. From experiencing a Cubs game at Wrigley Field to trying your first authentic deep-dish pizza, Chicago offers something for all.
Sports Culture
Chicagoans are passionate sports fans, whether they’re supporting the Chicago Bears in the NFL, MLB team Chicago Cubs, or Chicago White Sox baseball team. Try and catch a game at Soldier Field, Wrigley Field, Guaranteed Rate Field, or the United Center. If you’re not lucky enough to get tickets, watching in a local pub has just as much atmosphere. Sluggers, Timothy O’Toole’s, and The Globe Pub are amongst some of the best for fans.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
Set along Lake Michigan, Chicago offers endless outdoor experiences to enjoy nature. The 18-mile Lakefront Trail offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, allowing residents to bike or walk the path. Lincoln Park Zoo is the perfect free family-friendly day out and is one of the oldest zoos in the U.S. An underrated attraction in Chicago, the Garfield Park Conservatory can be visited for free year-round. Home to rock formations, a stunning lily pond, and palm trees, the conservatory must be explored.
Food Scene
Try Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, or Pequod for authentic deep-dish Chicago pizza. Italian beef sandwiches are also a staple in Chicago cuisine. With loyal followings, both Al’s Beef and Johnnie’s Beef offer the iconic sandwich amongst others. You can enjoy drinks and skyline views at one of many rooftop bars in Chicago, some popular ones being Cindy’s, LondonHouse, or The Signature Room.
Seasonal and Special Events
Chicagoans go big for special events, especially St Patrick’s Day. to celebrate the city’s deep-rooted Irish heritage, the Chicago River is dyed green in March. Held annually, the Chicago Marathon is one of the biggest races worldwide and attracts tens of thousands of runners in October. The Lollapalooza summer festival has seen the likes of The Killers, The Cure, and Radiohead play there.
How Much Will It Cost to Move My Personal Belongings to Chicago?
If you’re shipping household goods and personal effects to Chicago, costs will depend on the size of your move and final destination.
Here are the average costs for moving from UK to Chicago:
- Small Move: £ 999.00
- 1 bed flat: £1,220
- 2 bed flat: £2,19
- 3 bed house (20 ft container): £5,647
- 4+ bed house (40 ft container): £7,439
About our international moving services to Chicago
1st Move International can safely ship your household and personal belongings from the UK with our international removals to Chicago service. We offer a guaranteed weekly shipping service that ships directly to multiple ports in the U.S. Our safe packing and shipping techniques provide full protection for your items.
Visit our International Removals page and find out more about our great range of packing, shipping, and shipment protection cover options or you can a moving overseas quote, tailored to your individual moving requirements.
You can also check out our online international moving costs calculator here.
For more details on our packing process and the benefits of shipping with commercial co-loaders see our Faster Shipping, Safer Packing and Smarter Billing pages.
About 1st Move International
1st Move International are a specialist international moving and shipping company offering packing, shipping and shipment protection cover for shipping household goods and personal effects overseas. We have a global reach covering over 80 countries and 6500 worldwide destinations. You can get an international removals quote here or find more information on our international removals UK to USA service here.
