A-Z Moving to Chicago: Welcome to ‘A-Z Moving to Chicago’! As someone who’s frequently approached for advice on relocating to this vibrant city, I understand the allure of Chicago. It’s a place I’m deeply passionate about, and I’m excited to share this passion with you.
If you’re contemplating a move to the Windy City, you’re in for an adventure. To ease your transition, I’ve compiled a list of essential resources that I’ve found incredibly helpful. Whether you’re seeking information about employment, housing, or local amenities, these resources are designed to guide you through every step of your journey to Chicago. Let’s dive in and discover what makes this city truly remarkable!
Employment and Education- A-Z Moving to Chicago
Chicago’s employment and education landscape, and tech job market, indicate a nuanced picture. By May 2023, the Chicago metropolitan area saw an 81,900 increase in employment, a 1.7 percent gain. Employment in leisure and hospitality surged by 7.4 percent, outpacing the national growth.
The tech job market faced challenges with a 29% decline in startup job openings early in 2023 by midyear, indicating recovery, with tech companies actively hiring.
- High Tech Companies: Built In Chicago has 38 Top High Tech Companies in Chicago.
- Temporary Work Employment Agencies: Check out Best Staffing Agencies in Chicago in 2023.
- Top Employers in Chicago: The best recent source is the Chicago Tribune Top Workplaces 2023. For a list of top employers, check the Chicago area business directories. LinkedIn is one of the best resources for finding major companies in a specific area, join the Jobs n Career Success Network on LinkedIn and request help in Chicago.
- Education: Top Elementary and Grade Schools in Chicago. Top High Schools in Chicago.
- Universities: The National Center for Education Statistics’ College Navigator (nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator) provides a good search for universities in Chicago.
A-Z Moving to Chicago- Foundations
Considering a move to Chicago entails weighing its unique advantages against potential challenges.
Below is a table that encapsulates a balanced view of the pros and cons of relocating to this major city:
| Pros of Moving to Chicago | Cons of Moving to Chicago |
|---|---|
| Cultural Richness: Vibrant arts, diverse music scenes, museums, and theaters. | Harsh Winters: Very cold winters with heavy snowfall. |
| Architectural Beauty: Iconic skyline featuring Willis Tower and John Hancock Center. | Crime Rate: Varies by neighborhood, with some areas facing high rates. |
| Food Paradise: Culinary diversity from deep-dish pizza to high-end dining. | Cost of Living: Higher than the national average, though less than some major cities. |
| Educational Opportunities: Home to top universities and a range of educational resources. | Traffic Congestion: Frequent heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. |
| Public Transportation: Efficient and extensive transit system enabling easy navigation. | Tax Burden: Higher taxes compared to many other U.S. cities. |
| Job Market: Strong in sectors like finance, tech, and healthcare. | Political Climate: Challenges in the local political landscape and governance. |
| Green Spaces: Numerous parks and a picturesque lakefront for outdoor activities. | Educational Disparities: Quality of education varies across different areas. |
Banking, Financial, Move Registration
- Banks: Firstly, to find a reputable bank, the FDIC’s BankFind tool is an excellent starting point. Additionally, WalletHub offers a curated list of the Best Banks in Chicago, providing further insights and options.
- Post Offices: Next, for postal services, the USPS website (usps.com) features a convenient locator tool. This tool simplifies the process of finding the nearest post office to your location in Chicago.
- Copy Centers: When it comes to copying and printing services, FedEx Office, and Staples are popular choices. Furthermore, Yelp offers a comprehensive list, allowing you to explore various options and read customer reviews.
- Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): Finally, locating a DMV in Chicago is straightforward through the Illinois Secretary of State website. This site guides you to the nearest DMV office, ensuring your vehicle and driving-related tasks are handled efficiently.
Healthcare and Safety
- Hospitals & Family Medicine Doctors: My personal favorite is Northwestern Memorial Hospital (also has one of the nation’s leading Long Covid Recovery Programs. Healthgrades provides a list of the top Chicago Hospitals.
- Healthcare Insurance Providers: For a list of healthcare insurance providers, check out the companies list in Illinois Department of Insurance or the healthcare.gov marketplace.
- Police Stations: Chicago Police Department list of stations.
Move Services
- Address Change Form: Online Address Change Form with move resources.
- Illinois Address Change: Address Change (ilsos.gov)
- Internal Revenue Service: IRS Address Change Form
- Moving Services: Yelp offers a list of the top Moving service in Chicago.
- Realtors and Apartment Rental Agencies: I recommend Cathy Yanda, Real Estate Agent | Baird & Warner or by LinkedIn. Check Zillow Rental Listings in 60659, or Realtor.com.
- Power Companies: Illinois Commerce Commission website. Public Utility (illinois.gov)
- Telephone and Internet Service Providers: BroadbandNow (broadbandnow.com) list in Chicago.
Transportation: Airport and City
In Chicago, like any major city, staying safe involves being proactive and cautious. Firstly, stay informed about public safety through local news and community groups. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with various neighborhoods, as safety can vary. When using public transportation, especially at night, remain alert and choose well-lit areas for waiting. Be vigilant about your belongings in crowded places to avoid pickpocketing.
- Airport: Which Chicago Airport is best to fly into. It depends upon your needs, but Tortuga Analyzes and presents resources for both Midway and O’Hare. Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW). Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD).
- Bus Stations and Stops in Chicago IL
- Train. Chicago Union Station- A Valued Asset for Chicago’s Future
- Transit and Transportation in Chicago: Chicago Transit Authority (Trains and Busses). MI-Limo (Sedans). Uber. Lyft.
Other Resources A-Z Moving to Chicago
- 31 Free Things to Do in Chicago | Choose Chicago for Free Museums, Attractions, Tours, and More
- 2023 Safe Places to Live in Illinois
- Amtrak Chicago, IL – Union Station (CHI)
- Chicago: Tips for O’Hare travelers – Tripadvisor
- Exploring the Heritage of Little India: Devon Street Chicago
- Fly Chicago
- Megabus Chicago Travel Guide – Discover Top Attractions
