Moving from London to Chicago

[chicagoapts]

- Cost of living: You can get a decent place for $1200 in great neighborhoods. I live in Chinatown, 2 Beds 1 Bath for $1000. I'm only 5 minutes away from downtown by car and train.
- People: Oh yes, you'll definitely meet people here. It depends on your work and social networking skills. I'd say most people are really nice, especially the neighbors (totally speaking from personal experience)
- Nightlife: There are definitely different kinds of nightlife here. Certain areas are known for their bars while others are known for clubs. Wicker Park is pretty popular. The Six Corners are always crowded over the weekend.
- Where to live: I'd recommend Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, or Wrigleyville. Maybe Uptown if you like more peace and quiet. I work as a leasing agent so I know the costs well.
- Your favourite thing about living in Chicago? I like that I can get to places without relying too much on cars.

Hope this helps!

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Chicago, I think. You'll probably feel most at "home" in New York because it's such an international city, but Chicago has the advantage of being a truly "American" city that also has a lot of international flavor. It's also less expensive than New York and, I think, easier to get to know people in Chicago - which tends to be very friendly - then New York, which can be a little isolating at times. The nightlife is fantastic. And if you do look in Chicago, most 20's to 30's live in the north area - like the area bordered by the lake, Ashland, Irving Park, and Fullerton. Chicago is just a great mix of culture, music, festivals, sports, restaurants ... I think you'd really like it.

As for the others, Boston is a terrific city - and it's interesting seeing the other end of it from London, because unlike the other cities, it kind of looks like London (meandering streets that make no sense), but it's not the easiest to start in. San Francisco is *gorgeous* but crazy expensive. I'd go with Chicago.