Boston vs. Chicago, where is better to live? Both cities have their own unique culture and appeal. If you are looking for the answer of “Is it better to live in Chicago or Boston?” The blog will help you make decision. We will compare Boston and Chicago from multiple perspectives, including population and size, cost of living, public transport,etc. Explore with us what is the differences between Chicago and Boston.
Boston vs. Chicago: An Overview
| Boston | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| location | massachusetts | illinois |
| population | 0.62 million | 2.9 million |
| crime rate | 26.19/per 100k people | 37.15/per 100k people |
| safe neighbourhoods | North End, Charlestown, Back Bay or Beacon Hill | Lake View East, Lincoln Park, Wicker Park or Logan Square |
| size | 48.4 sq mi | 227.73 sq mi |
| climate | Humid continental, winter temperatures are generally cold. | Continental, with very cold, snowy winters and warm to hot summers. |
| cost of living | $3,345/month | $2,613/month |
| transportation | MBTA Subway: $2.40/one-way | CTA Subway: $2.50/one-way |
| university | University of Chicago, Northwestern University | Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
| sports teams | Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics | Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bulls |
| average salary | $5,749.51 | $5,630.94 |
| average rent: 1b | $2,644.60 | $1,842.06 |
| global cities index | 2.94 | 3.66 |
| job market | Boston’s job market is diverse and robust, with a strong presence in sectors such as higher education, biotechnology, finance, healthcare, technology, and tourism. | Chicago is home to manufacturing, transportation, information technology, and health services jobs. |
Living in Boston Pros and Cons
Pros of Living in Boston
- Pro: Historical landmarks and monuments
Boston’s is a historic city with rich landmarks. The Freedom Trail offers a walk through the city’s revolutionary past, as well as Boston Common and Boston Harbor. Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Museum of Fine Arts are a haven for enthusiast. Living in Boston means being surrounded by stories and monuments that shaped the United States.
- Pro: Higher education resources
Boston is known for higher education, home to prestigious institutions like Harvard University and MIT. These top-tier universities attract young adults to pursue their academic resources, fostering an environment of innovation and academic excellence.
- Pro: Multiple job opportunities
Boston’s job market is robust in technology, medicine, and education. With a strong economy offering job opportunities in these industries, Boston provides a fertile ground for one’s career success.
Cons of Living in Boston
- Con: High cost of living
One of the significant drawbacks of living in Boston is its high cost of living. In fact, the cost of living in Boston is 47% higher than the national average, which is also higher than the cost of living in Chicago.
- Con: Brutal winter weather
How bad is winter in Boston? The winter in Boston is brutal, the main issue is not only about the cold temperatures, it’s the wind. it makes it feel 100x colder than it is. Living in Boston, you have to fight with big snowstorms and colder winters.
Living in Chicago Pros and Cons
Pros of Living in Chicago
- Pro: Foodie Heaven
From the legendary deep-dish pizza to Michelin-starred restaurants like Alinea and Chicago Cut Steakhouse, the city’s dining options are countless. Take a culinary tour of Chicago’s best restaurants with your friends and family.
- Pro: Thriving Culture Scene
Chicago is one of the top tourist destinations since there are many museums and parks such as The Shedd Aquarium, The Art Institute of Chicago, The Field Museum, The Museum of Science and Industry, The Lincoln Park Zoo and many more. Plus, Chicago is also renowned for its extensive park system, Grant Park, Foster Beach, Lake Michigan are some green escapes for visitors to relax and take outdoor activities.
- Pro: Convenient Public Transportation
Chicago public transportation system is well-developed and the city is a significant travel hub with two major airports: O’Hare International Airport and Chicago Midway International Airport. CTA, The Metra Rail, Chicago Water Taxi and Divvy Bikes made you travel around Chicago easily.
Cons of Living in Chicago
- Con: Higher Crime Rate
As a major metropolis, Chicago’s crime rates are of course higher than the national average. Nowadays, the Chicago crime rate is comparably moderate as a whole, but the worst neighborhoods in Chicago are some of the most dangerous in the nation. Chicago is highly segregated, so it’s easy to avoid dangerous neighborhoods.
- Con: Harsh winters
If you are definitely prone to seasonal affective disorder, living in Chicago will be a problem. In winter, the temperatures can drop below freezing from December to February, accompanied by snow, ice, and strong winds.
Boston vs. Chicago: Location and Distance
Boston is in which state?
Boston, located in Massachusetts in the northeastern United States, Boston is the economic engine and cultural hub of New England. Boston, one of the country’s oldest cities, is a cradle of American history, a beacon of higher education such as Harvard and MIT, and a center for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Which state is Chicago in USA?
Chicago is located in northeastern Illinois, on the southwestern shores of Lake Michigan. Chicago city is the main city in the Chicago metropolitan area, which is in the Great Lakes region and the Midwestern United States. Today, Chicago is the third largest city in the United States.
How far Chicago to Boston: Boston to Chicago Distance
The distance from Chicago IL to Boston MA is approximately 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometers). Fly or drive are two common ways travel from Boston to Chicago. If you opt for the road trip, the drive from Chicago, Illinois, to Boston, Massachusetts, typically takes around 17 to 20 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. As you leave Chicago, you’ll pass through the scenic landscapes of Indiana and Ohio. The route will take you through cities like Toledo, Cleveland, Pennsylvania and New York, where you can take breaks to explore local attractions.
Boston vs. Chicago: Population and Size
What's the population of Boston?
Boston has a 2024 population of 646,622, making it one of the most populous cities in Massachusetts. Greater Boston is the 4th most densely populated region in the United States, after New York Metro Area, Greater Los Angeles, and South Florida Metro Area. Thanks to this immigration boom, Boston’s population is also growing younger, as nearly one-third of its residents are 20-34, which is younger than most other major cities in the country.
What's the population of Chicago?
In contrast, Chicago has a 2024 population of 2,638,159 is the third largest city in the United States. Chicago population is about 4x the size of Boston population.
Boston Size vs. Chicago Size
Boston is about 89.63 square miles (232.1 square kilometers), including both land and sea. Boston is renowned for its small size and historical significance, in contrast to Chicago. Chicago, on the other hand, is much larger, including around 234 square miles (606.1 square kilometers). Due to its size, Chicago boasts a diverse urban environment that mixes new and old buildings, skyscrapers, and large green areas like Millennium Park and Grant Park.
Boston vs. Chicago: Cost of Living
Cost of Living in Boston
| Category | Costs($/month) |
|---|---|
| Housing | $1200-$4500 |
| Food and Grocery | $300-$1000 |
| Transportation | $90-$400 |
| Healthcare | $200-$500 |
| Miscellaneous | $400-$1000 |
Cost of Living in Chicago
| Category | Costs($/month) |
|---|---|
| Housing | $1300-$2400 |
| Food and Grocery | $300-$500 |
| Transportation | $100-$120 |
| Healthcare | $200-$500 |
| Miscellaneous | $200-$400 |
When comparing the cost of living in Boston versus chicago, it is clear that Boston is far more expensive. Boston, MA has a 36.2% higher cost of living than Chicago, IL, requiring an annual income of $81,730 to maintain a comparable level of living.
This large difference in Boston vs. Chicago cost of living and income levels ndicates the possible expenses when living in Boston versus Chicago. Thus, the employers in Boston typically offer greater incomes than those in Chicago. Housing, utilities, healthcare, and transportation are items contribute to cost of living in a city, among these items, the cost of renting apartments takes up most of the expenses.
uhomes.com offers studio, single room and shared rooms for rent in Chiago and Boston. The average rent of 1 bedroom apartments in Chicago is about $1,842.06/month, in Boston, it is about $2,644.60 per month. If you are looking for affordable student apartments in the two cities, uhomes.com is the best rental website.
Despite these socioeconomic differences, both Chicago and Boston provide unique chances and experiences that attract a diverse population looking for a variety of metropolitan surroundings in which to live.
Boston vs. Chicago: Climate and Weather
Boston, located in the northeastern region of the United States, has four distinct seasons and a humid continental climate. Summers are hot and muggy, and winters are cold and snowy, with average temperatures close to freezing. At spring and fall, mild weather and vibrant foliage are common in Boston. Boston’s climate is moderated by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which also periodically brings sea breezes and coastal storms that can affect the local weather.
Chicago, which is in the Midwest close to Lake Michigan, has a humid subtropical climate with noticeable seasonal fluctuations, in contrast. Summers are hot and muggy, occasionally broken up by violent thunderstorms, while winters are chilly and snowy, how cold does Chicago get in winter? The coldest month of the year in Chicago is January, average winter temperature in Chicago is low of 22°F and high of 33°.
Boston vs. Chicago: Crime Rate
| City/Crime Rate(per 100k people) | Total crime | Violent crime | Property crime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston | 26.19 | 6.6 | 19.59 |
| Chicago | 37.15 | 5.38 | 31.76 |
Before study or visit a city, people will naturally ask a question: Is Boston safe to live? Is Chicago safe to live? Boston, a city well-known for its rich cultural heritage, elite universities, and historical significance, is generally thought to be safe. But just like any urban neighborhood, there is some crime there. Cautious behavior is advised in certain neighborhoods due to the possibility of greater crime rates, particularly in less visited areas.
Conversely, Chicago—which is well-known for its rich cultural heritage, varied neighborhoods, and architecture—has a bad image for having worse crime rates than Boston. The perception of safety in the city has been impacted by problems with crime and violence in areas like the South Side.
It’s important to acquaint oneself with the neighborhoods, do extensive research, and follow standard safety procedures before visiting or living in either city. Making use of neighborhood resources, such crime maps and community forums, can provide valuable insights into the current safety situation in specific areas.
Boston vs. Chicago: Transportation
When comparing the public transportation systems of Boston versus Chicago, we’ve listed several key differences.
- Boston’s MBTA
The Massachusetts Bay transportation Authority (MBTA) in Boston includes subway, bus, commuter rail, and ferry services. Boston subway system, commonly known as the “T,” primarily consists of four subway lines: Red, Orange, Blue, and Green. The subway operates until around 1 AM, which might be a limitation for late-night travelers compared to cities with 24/7 service.
- Chicago’s CTA
Chicago’s public transportation system is operated by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), which includes the ‘L’ train system and buses. The ‘L’ train system is iconic, with color-coded lines covering various parts of the city and suburbs. With its extensive network of over 140 stations, the Chicago subway opens up a world of possibilities to explore the vibrant neighborhoods and iconic attractions of the Windy City. The CTA operates 24/7, providing more flexibility for late-night commuters compared to Boston’s MBTA.
In summary, while both Boston’s MBTA and Chicago’s CTA offer essential public transportation services, Chicago’s system tends to provide more extensive coverage, frequent service, and 24/7 operation, making it a more convenient option for many commuters, especially those who rely on late-night travel.
Boston vs. Chicago :Things to do
From historical sites to cultural institutions to thriving food scenes, Chicago and Boston provide an abundance of activities and attractions to suit a broad variety of interests.
Things to do in Chicago
Here are some things to do in Chicago:
- Chicago is well-known for its distinctive architectural design, Chicago architecture left deep impression for people and let them do recognize what a beautiful city it is. The city’s skyline can be seen from sites like the Willis Tower Skydeck, the iconic Wrigley Building, and the Chicago Riverwalk.
- Museums: World-class museums may be found in Chicago, including the Museum of Science and Industry, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Field Museum, which is home to Sue, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton.
- Historic Landmarks: Millennium Park and Cloud Gate, Navy Pier are beloved attractions, Navy Pier features shops, restaurants, boat tours, and the iconic Centennial Wheel offering panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the city.
- Cultural Scene: Chicago is home to a thriving cultural scene that includes great musicians from a variety of genres as well as institutions like the Chicago Theatre and the Second City comedy club.
- Plus, Chicago is home to some of the world’s leading research universities, including the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, UIC, etc.
Things to do in Boston
The following are some things to do in Boston:
- Historical Sites: With landmarks like the USS Constitution Museum, Faneuil Hall, and the Freedom Trail providing insights into the city’s revolutionary past, Boston is a city rich in history.
- Top-tier Universities: Boston provides opportunity to tour intellectual institutions, libraries, and historic sites. It is home to prominent colleges like Harvard and MIT.
- Fenway Park: Sports enthusiasts can catch a game at Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, and experience the unique atmosphere of one of baseball’s oldest ballparks.
- New England Aquarium: Ideal for families, the New England Aquarium showcases marine life through interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and daily animal presentations.
In conclusion, both Chicago and Boston present a diverse array of attractions that celebrate their rich histories, cultural diversity, and vibrant urban landscapes, ensuring a memorable experience for visitors seeking exploration, entertainment, and discovery.
Boston vs. Chicago: Sports
When comparing the sports culture of Chicago and Boston, both cities boast rich histories and passionate fan bases across various sports.
- Boston Sports Culture
Boston is known for its passionate sports culture, especially when it comes to baseball, where fans of the Red Sox have a specific place in their hearts. The city is also well-known for the Boston Celtics, a successful basketball team, and the Bruins, a hockey team. Boston’s sporting history has been further enhanced by the dominance of the New England Patriots in American football.
- Chicago Sports Culture
With legendary sports clubs like the Chicago Cubs in baseball, the Bulls in basketball, the Bears in football, and the Blackhawks in hockey, Chicago boasts a rich sports culture. Over the years, these clubs have developed devoted fan bases, which has enhanced the city’s lively sports culture. In football, the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers have a particularly fierce and long-standing rivalry.
- Soccer Culture in Chicago and Boston
Both cities feature Major League Soccer teams, which heightens the excitement surrounding the sport. Founded in 1997, the Chicago Fire FC has a devoted following and a track record of success in Major League Soccer. However, Boston’s New England Revolution has also developed a devoted fan base in the Major League Soccer, which has enhanced the local soccer scene.
In conclusion, despite the fact that Boston and Chicago each have their own unique sports cultures and dominant teams in a variety of sports, the two cities are united by their steadfast fan bases and abiding passion for their teams, which makes them essential components of their respective identities.
FAQ
The shortest distance (air line) between Boston and Chicago is 849.83 mi (1,367.67 km). The shortest route between Boston and Chicago is 989.56 mi (1,592.55 km), drive from Boston to Chicago usually need 18h 33min.
It’s really up to you. I think Boston and Chicago are both great cities offers rich resources.
City size: Chicago is much bigger and less walkable.
Cost of Living: Chicago is cheaper than Boston. Boston`s average rent price is $1,854, with a one-bedroom costing an average of $2,260. In Chicago, the average rent price cheaper than Boston.
Safety: Boston is a safer city than Chicago.
Transportation: Chicago’s subway system tends to provide more extensive coverage, frequent service than Boston subway system.
In summary, you can choose Chicago if you prefer a lower cost of living, a vibrant cultural scene, and enjoy lakefront activities. However, if you prioritize education, historical significance and don’t mind the higher costs, you can choose Boston.
Boston is definitely more expensive than Chicago for both average rent price and median home price, but Boston residents make more money overall to compensate for that. Besides, Chicago is known as one of the cheapest of the biggest cities in the country.
The average salary of Boston is about $5 749.51/mo, and the average salary of Chicago is about $5 630.94/mo. The average salary usually higher than Boston. However, higher salary comes with higher expense. When you consider to move in Boston or Chicago, remember that the cost of living in Boston is higher than Chicago.
The total crime rate in Chicago is higher than Boston, but neighbourhood is a influening factor, Chicago is relatively safe if you live in a safe neighbourhood. Some safe neighbourhood in Chicago include Lincoln Park, Lakeview and West Loop.
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