So, You Wanna Be a Chicagoan? How Much Dough Do You Need?
Let’s talk turkey, or rather, dollars. You’re dreaming of trading in your sleepy suburb for the concrete jungle that is Chicago. Good for you! You’re about to embark on a thrilling adventure filled with deep-dish pizza, towering skyscrapers, and the occasional lake breeze. But before you pack your bags and shout “I’ll be back” to your current life, let's talk about the cold, hard cash you’ll need to make this dream a reality.
How Much is "Enough"?
The age-old question, right? Well, the short answer is: it depends. It depends on where you want to live, your lifestyle, and whether you plan on trading your car for a Divvy bike (pro tip: do it). But let's break it down.
The Bare Bones: If you're looking to live the minimalist life, sharing an apartment with three roommates who all have the same questionable taste in reality TV, you might be able to get by with a few thousand dollars in savings. This is assuming you already have a job lined up, of course. But let's be real, who wants to live like that?
The Comfortable Life: To enjoy a decent quality of life, with your own apartment, the ability to actually eat out occasionally, and maybe even a Netflix subscription, you're looking at saving anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000. This will cover your first month's rent, security deposit, moving costs, and a little cushion for unexpected expenses like that time your apartment gets flooded because your upstairs neighbor tried to turn their bathtub into a personal spa.
The High Roller: If you’re dreaming of a penthouse with a view of Lake Michigan, a wardrobe filled with designer clothes, and a social calendar packed with rooftop parties, well, let’s just say you’ll need a lot more than $20,000. We’re talking six figures here, people.
Other Costs to Consider
Rent, food, and fun aren't the only things that cost money in Chicago. Here are a few other expenses to keep in mind:
- Transportation: If you’re not planning on walking or biking everywhere, you'll need to factor in the cost of public transportation or owning a car (which includes insurance, gas, and parking).
- Entertainment: Chicago has a thriving arts and culture scene, but it can also be pricey. Be prepared to spend money on concerts, museums, and sporting events.
- Unexpected Expenses: Life happens, and sometimes it happens in the form of unexpected costs. Having a little extra cash saved up can be a lifesaver.
How to Make Your Money Go Further
- Live Like a Local: Explore free or low-cost activities like going to the beach, visiting parks, and checking out free museum days.
- Cook at Home: Eating out can add up quickly. Learn to cook your favorite dishes at home.
- Transportation Alternatives: Consider biking, walking, or using public transportation to save money on transportation costs.
How To’s for Your Chicago Adventure
- How to find affordable housing: Check out neighborhoods outside of the Loop, consider roommates, and look for rental specials.
- How to explore Chicago on a budget: Take advantage of free museum days, explore parks, and enjoy the city's many free outdoor events.
- How to make new friends: Join clubs or groups based on your interests, attend local events, and be open to meeting new people.
- How to survive a Chicago winter: Invest in warm clothes, learn how to layer, and discover the joys of indoor activities.
- How to experience deep-dish pizza without breaking the bank: Look for deals and specials, and share a pizza with a friend.