Can $90k buy you a comfortable life in Chicago? (apartment, condo)

[dieschweiz]

I am moving to Chicago from the east coast. will be making $90k a year. What kind of life style would my salary afford me?

[j33]

Define comfortable. That has a different definition for everyone.

[oakparkdude]

Married? Kids?

[dieschweiz]

No, single, late 20s with a car. Where to live and socialize? What's a comfortable living in Chicago like?

[j33]

Again, 'comfortable' is in the eye of the beholder, it is not something I know how to define for someone else.

I grew up with very little money, so having enough money to pay my bills without having to worry about how I'm going to do so, put good food on the table, and enjoy an occasional luxury here and there in my mind, is a comfortable living (and that is how I live now). But I know that isn't the case for everyone, for example, I know a girl whose life isn't 'comfortable' unless she can afford designer shoes. That is something I don't even understand. In her mind, my life would not be comfortable, but in my mind, it is.

[mdz]

I had a great time being single living in Chicago at 30 K so I think you'll be just fine. 90K definitely will go farther here than in NY.

[chicago_summer]

Yes 90 K is good enough
Here is what you get for 90 k
1. Downtown condo, looking over lake and beach with all unthinkable amenities
2. Cab rides to work
3. Eating out 5 days a week
4. Dating expenses
5. Shows
6. Savings of 10 k a year
7. You can have a car

[Chicago60614]

$90K and single? You'll be in heaven.

I make around $60K and I have a nice apartment with heat/air/dishwasher/balcony. I go out many times a week drinking and restaurants, and afford 6-8 trips a year to Europe.

I still save up a few thousand a year - so with $90K you will be FINE if you know how to handle money.

Averages:
1 Bedroom nice apartment in nice neighborhood $1,000 per month
Car: don't really need one. Grab a $75 per month transit pass
Restaurants: $20 will get you a decent meal
Alcohol: Most beers are $3-$4 and most mixed drinks are $5 or so. There are thousands of bars on the north side though, and you will ALWAYS find drink specials every night with anything from free beer to $1 bottles to half off all drinks and food.

[T2424]

If you have little or no debt sucking up a % of your monthly income, then you'll be more than comfortable.

[cvatasoiu]

Originally Posted by dieschweiz

I am moving to Chicago from the east coast. will be making $90k a year. What kind of life style would my salary afford me?

you will do just fine. 90k has more value here than NY. condo prices are lower and it seems like Chicago North Side is the place for you.

at 90k, I'm assuming you're doing IT consulting maybe?

~cristina