What's the job situation like in Chicago? (rent, home)

[UnusualSuspect]

Long story short, I'm not happy in the city I'm currently living in, and I think I'd like living in Chicago. I realize my timing is about as bad as it can get, but I've waited long enough.

I'm up for moving without a job lined up, but I don't want to go too long without one. By the time I move (late December or early January), I'll have at least enough money to survive without a job for half a year, maybe more, but I don't want to use up all my savings if I don't have to.

I have experience in libraries, non-profits, and some PR, but I'm not going to be picky. I've moved without any plans before (it's how I got where I am), and I've never had a problem finding a job. I've never gone longer than a month without working, except by choice. I'm confident I can find a job, but how long will it take? I'm sure some of you have an idea on what the job situation is like...

[Drover]

Good luck.

[surlycue]

6 months living expenses saved? My partner and I moved here without jobs and only 3 months rent in reserves and tons of others do it yearly. It really depends on how hard you are willing to hustle looking for work and how far you are willing to stretch your definitions of acceptable work.

With your savings you have a great buffer to start and if you have family back home who will float you or provide a place to land if things don't work out in Chicago then I would say go for it, particularly if you are childless. There is a wonderful feeling about forging your own way in a brand new place.