
The prospect of moving someplace new for work can be daunting, especially when that new place is as large and bustling as Chicago. But life in the Windy City can be a breeze with a little thoughtful planning. To help you settle in, we’ve compiled a list of our top tips:
1. Set a budget and stick to it
Lining up a job is one of the first steps you’ll want to take before making the big move. From there, it’s important to plan out all of your finances based on your income so you know what you can afford. Chicago’s cost of living may be higher than where you’re moving from, but with the help of budgeting tools and a calculator, you can set spending limits for essentials such as groceries, utilities, insurance, and housing. This leads us to our second tip.
2. Find the neighborhood that’s right for you
One of Chicago’s many benefits is its diversity, combining various cultures and identities. Boasting 77 different districts, the city’s uniquely distinct neighborhoods offer something for everyone. If you’re looking for a gorgeous waterfront vista, Lakeview is perfect. You might fit in best in Wicker Park if you’re more artsy. Or, maybe you’re a history buff, in which case Hyde Park may be just your speed. If you don’t mind a commute, you can save money by living in the suburbs. But remember—you’ll need to weigh your personal preferences and budget to determine which is right for you.
3. Take advantage of public transportation
Once you identify a place you’d like to live, you’ll want to decide how you plan to get around. While Chicago is technically driveable, the city is large, and traffic can often be an issue. Thankfully, public transportation is a popular, accessible, and affordable option if you want to avoid the frustrating bumper-to-bumper chaos. The Chicago Transit Authority’s iconic “L” train services most areas within the city limits, and its Metra commuter trains are great for those living further outside. You can also go old school and take a taxi. If you do plan to use public transit routinely, you’ll want to factor it into your budget.
4. Be prepared for the weather
Chicago is notorious for its unpredictable weather, so you’ll want to account for this ahead of your move. In the winter, be ready for freezing temperatures, high wind, snow, and more wind, as well as heat and humidity in the summer. But don’t be intimidated—by investing in a wardrobe with the appropriate gear, you’ll be able to enjoy all the city’s outdoor pleasures, from festivals to architecture tours. Budget for quality apparel such as a warm coat, insulated boots, gloves, hats, and scarves, as well as lightweight and breathable apparel. Dressing in layers is key so you’re prepared for any climate.
5. Don’t forget to get involved
Now that you’ve settled in, it’s time to get out and explore. Though this final tip may seem like a no-brainer, it’s especially crucial to ensuring a positive transition and preventing feeling isolated. Since you’re moving for work, you could consider joining a local professional association chapter to network and meet like-minded people.
Sports are another good way to make new friends, and Chicago has no shortage of professional teams to follow, including the infamous Cubs, Cardinals, White Sox, and Bears.
The culinary scene is also bursting with flavor, so whether you prefer a deep-dish pizza or a classic Chicago-style hotdog, you’ve got plenty of choices. Immersing yourself in the city’s sights, sounds, and tastes will help you adjust and thrive in no time.
If you’re moving from abroad…
If you’re relocating to Chicago from outside the United States, there are a few additional considerations you’ll want to keep in mind:
● First, you’ll need to complete the paperwork, including applying for a work permit, getting a Social Security Number, and enrolling in health insurance. Check with your new employer to see if they will sponsor your visa.
● You’ll also want to set up a new bank account for your direct deposit and to manage your money. Keeping close tabs on your finances will come in handy when tax season rolls around.
● To stay connected, you may need to change cellular service providers. This can be done easily with an eSIM, which differs from a traditional SIM card in that it’s embedded directly in your device. By purchasing an eSIM for the USA, you can save money by not buying additional separate SIMs and avoiding excessive roaming charges.
This is not an exhaustive list, so do your research to confirm you’ve taken all the steps for a smooth relocation.
Relocating is an exciting experience, and Chicago is a vibrant and interesting place to call home. Follow these tips for a seamless move and enjoy life in the new city!