Coming to the United States from a small town in Poland was a huge culture shock when I moved to the beautiful city of Chicago. And so, for you to not get lost and have something as a guide, I’m going to share with you 6 essential things you have to know about Chicago before you decide to move in here!

Before we begin, did you know that Chicago is known as the Windy City? Some people believe the name came because of Lake Michigan and the exposure to the wind but actually, it is 50th on the list of the windiest cities in the USA. The real story here is that most residents started joking that the local politicians are full of baloney AKA hot air and that is where the name came from. 

But to take things more seriously, what you first need to realize is that Chicago is simply beautiful. It is one of the best places that I have ever visited. You can truly enjoy the perfect mixture of history and modern living, and also, you can learn to appreciate the landscape in all four seasons, from beautiful beaches in the summer months to the peaceful snowy days hopefully cozied up in front of your fireplace.

And now, to enjoy Chicago, let us finally get to the things we have to know before officially residing in Chicago, and let’s get to it!

1. You do not necessarily need a car

Chicago has a diverse, advanced, and progressed public transportation system. The city grid makes commuting very easy and simple. You can choose everything from trains and buses within the boundaries of the city to the Metra, Amtrak, and Pace buses. Application-based rides such as Uber and Lyft are also effectively open and accessible. 

For me, I like taking advantage of Chicago’s shared bike rental program. With multiple locations spread all around the loop, just pick up the bike and drop it off at any other location. 

And if you do end up with a car in this city, you need to prepare to pay for the convenience. Expenses such as city license plate stickers, parking spots, and meters will make your wallet weep. Here’s a tip, be familiar with money-saving apps such as Park Chirp and SpotHero. 

Of course, there is also free street parking outside of the loop and crowded areas that your saving wallet could be happy for and which you could probably take advantage of. Just take note, it is on a first-come and first serves basis. When parking on the side streets pay attention to permitted blocks where you can get your car towed if you are not a resident of that street or you are not displaying an appropriate guest pass.

While on frigid or snowy days you will become very frustrated spending hours digging out your car just to have someone else snatch your spot the second you leave. For years, I have seen many people become very creative with leaving old chairs or buckets, or other pieces of furniture behind to unsuccessfully save the shoveled spot. In the winter, always have a shovel and a jumper cable in the car. Those are just some tinnie-tiny ways you could do to help you survive your transportation and save mania without having to have your car.

2. Diversification in the Neighborhood

Chicago neighborhoods are beautiful and diverse. Each neighborhood represents its history and culture. There are 77 neighborhoods in all of Chicago which are divided into sides such as North, Far North, Northwest, and so on. Each of them is unique but all equally friendly! You’ll surely be fond of them.

North of the city is typically youthful and more desirable. There you find the Chicago Cubs playing at Wrigley Field, the boutique shops in Lincoln Park, or live jazz  Uptown.

On the west side of the city starting in the West Loop is a more modern artsy and culinary culture. It is very pleasant to visit Randolph St. and Fulton Market and the murals and monuments of Wicker Park. 

Downtown, The Loop is the center of all the attractions. Here is the “Bean” at Millennium Park, Grant Park and its Buckingham Fountain, all the skyscrapers like the Hancock and Willy’s tower, and the shopping district on Michigan avenue - also known as Magnificent Mile. 

And finally, you have the south side, which is a mix of many diverse cultural and social atmospheres. You shouldn’t miss the monuments in Bronzeville, Museum Campus, and Chinatown. 

3. Real Estate Market Access

Chicago is a healthy, opportunity-filled place for real estate. When it comes to the cost of living, midwestern Chicago is a great deal for you. Here housing is much more affordable than sunny California and chaotic New York, while still offering high opportunities for growth. Property taxes here are one of the highest in the country, so budget accordingly.

4. Weather Conditions

After living in this area, I have perfected getting dressed in layers! It is not an exaggeration that you might experience 3 seasons in one day. Back when I used to travel to school, I would always make sure to have short sleeves, a sweater, and a windbreaker on me at all times. 

Now the seasons can get very brutal. Just prepare for polar vortexes, wind chills in the negative double digits. And always stay hydrated during the extreme heat and humidity of the summers.

5. Sport Teams

Chicago is home to some of the greatest sports teams past and present. As a general rule, those who live on the north side of the city cheer for the Chicago Cubs and those who live on the south side of the city for the White Sox. Twice a year, each team hosts the crosstown classic at their ballpark where Chicago residents from all across the city come to cheer for their favorite team. But no matter which team you support, Wrigley Field, one of America’s historic ballparks, is a crown jewel that all Chicago prides in. 

Chicago is also the home of the Chicago Fire, Blackhawks, the Bulls, and of course, DA Bears who play at historic Soldier Field which is located prominently on Chicago’s Museum Campus on the lakefront. This same field hosts the professional football team, the Chicago Fire Soccer.

6. Infinite Recreation Possibilities

You will never get bored in the Windy City. The Festival Season starts in May and ends around October. Some of the events that you should experience and witness are the St Patrick’s celebration which highlights the dying of the Chicago River green, the Air and Water Show on Lake Michigan, and the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.

For nature lovers, visit the Lincoln park zoo for free! This is the fourth oldest zoo covering 35 acres located just north of the loop in Lincoln Park, off lake Michigan!

Millennium Park is also one of the most popular sights to visit in America, with 25 million annual visitors. It is a portion of Grant Park, often known as the front lawn of downtown Chicago, it features Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, and Lurie Garden. Once you make it to Grant Park - you definitely cannot miss the Buckingham Fountain.

Just north of Grant Park, you will find Navy Pier - a 3,300-foot long pier on Lake Michigan. It has over 50 acres of parks, gardens, shops, restaurants, and attractions for the whole family to enjoy. And it made history in 1941 as a training station for the US Navy during World War II.

If you’re into panoramic scapes, you shouldn’t miss the Skydeck. It is located on the 3rd tallest building in the Western Hemisphere,  Willy’s Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower.)! It is the highest observation deck in the US with a glass ledge box that extends four and a half feet out of the building.

And for history and architecture lovers, I highly recommend the Architecture Boat Tour. The tour takes you to the heart of the city on a ride of all three branches of the Chicago River. 

Conclusion

Chicago is indeed one of the best places in the country. I love being here and I’m sure you will, too!