Chicago at a Glance
Population
2,693,976
Median Home Value
$270,000
Nat'l avg: $281,900
Median Rent
$2,391
Nat'l avg: $1,163
Median Income
$62,097
Nat'l avg: $74,580
Violent Crime
4.3 per 1K
Nat'l avg: 3.7 per 1K
Walk Score
100/100
Walker's Paradise
Air Quality
AQI 36
Good
Climate Risk
Relatively Moderate
Score: 80.7
Explore Chicago
Dive deeper into Chicago with specialized neighborhood guides and rankings.
Best Neighborhoods
Top-rated neighborhoods in Chicago ranked by Kurby Score
Affordable Neighborhoods
Most budget-friendly areas to live in Chicago
Up & Coming Neighborhoods
Emerging neighborhoods with growth potential in Chicago
Young Professionals
Best neighborhoods for career starters in Chicago
Retiree Neighborhoods
Best neighborhoods for retirees in Chicago
Living In Guide
Complete guide to life in Chicago — cost, safety, schools & more
All Neighborhoods
Browse every neighborhood in Chicago with detailed data
Hyde Park
Lincoln Park
Wicker Park
The Loop
About Chicago
Chicago, a city that truly pulses with life, offers a vibrant urban experience unlike any other. Imagine stepping out your door and having a perfect 100/100 Walk Score and Transit Score, meaning you can effortlessly explore the city on foot or via public transportation. With a high Bike Score of 81, cycling is also a breeze. The cost of living is surprisingly manageable, with a median home value of $270,000, significantly below the national average. You can live well in Chicago, enjoying a rich cultural scene, world-class dining, and exciting nightlife, all while maintaining a comfortable budget. The Affordability Index of 181 reflects the city's commitment to offering an accessible lifestyle. From an investment perspective, Chicago presents a compelling opportunity. While the homeownership rate sits at 28%, the rental market is robust with a median rent of $2,391, indicating strong demand. The city's unemployment rate is 4.6%, slightly above the national average, but the diverse job market offers opportunities across various sectors. While the city has a violent crime rate of 4.3 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 18.4 per 1,000 residents, it's worth noting that these rates vary significantly by neighborhood. Chicago is ideal for those seeking a dynamic urban environment with a strong sense of community and a diverse population of 2.7 million people. Beyond the bustling city life, Chicago boasts remarkably good air quality, with an AQI of 36, and a quiet noise level, creating a surprisingly tranquil environment within the urban core. The electricity rate is a reasonable 10.4¢/kWh. The city experiences four distinct seasons, offering a wide range of activities throughout the year. Chicago's unique blend of architectural marvels, lively neighborhoods, and its position on the shores of Lake Michigan make it an unparalleled place to live, work, and invest.