Things to Know Before Moving to Chicago from San Francisco

Relocating from the West Coast to the Midwest is a significant change. 

If you’re planning on moving to Chicago from San Francisco, discover some essential pointers to help ease the transition.

Cost of Living

San Francisco continually ranks as one of the most expensive cities to live in America.

For starters, making a move from San Francisco and Chicago would mean a lower cost of living. You will quickly find that your money will stretch much further in the Wind City.

On average, San Francisco is nearly 56 percent more expensive than Chicago.

The difference in housing costs is even higher, with homes running 131% more expensive in San Francisco. This means that it may be more practical to find a home with more bells and whistles in Chicago.

The Food Scene in Chicago

If you consider yourself a foodie, then you’re in luck out in Chi-Town. 

Chicago is known as a food haven, boasting a wide variety of international and delicious cuisine. 

From authentic hole-in-the-wall joints to world-famous restaurants, Chicago has it all.

The Windy City has also gained a reputation for its signature dishes.

For starters, there’s nothing like Chicago-style deep dish pizza. Be sure to try out Giordano’s Lou Malnati’s, some of the hottest spots in the city.

If you’ve never had an Italian beef or cake shake from Portillos, be sure to add that to your list as soon as you make it to Chi-town.

You also have to try an infamous Chicago dog, particularly paired well with a cold beer and a ball game.

If you’re looking for hip spots to grab a bite, stroll along ‘Restaurant Row’ to find some of the top-rated spots to dine, including Michelin-rated Girl and the Goat and Au Cheval, known for the best burger in the city.

Chicago Shopping

Moving to Chicago also opens the doors to incredible shopping.

People all over the world have come to appreciate the impressive shopping along the historic Magnificent Mile, ‘Mag Mile’ for short.’ This 13 mile stretch of Michigan Avenue houses nearly 500 stores. 

Some of the same notable brands have set up shop along this commercial strip. 

You can find some of the largest department stores in the world, including Neiman Marcus, 

Saks Fifth Avenue, and Nordstrom. Gucci, Giorgio Armani, and Hermes are just a few of the many designer label stores.

A few blocks north of the Mag Mile, you can find even more designer shops in the upscale Gold Coast neighborhood. Oak Street district is known as a haven for couture.

If you’re interested in shopping off the beaten path, check out some of the incredible neighborhood boutiques. 

The charming Lincoln Park neighborhood happens to be home to some of the most adorable local shops, many concentrated along Armitage avenue.

While moving to Chicago from San Francisco is an exciting shift, relocating is always a big project. Let one of our experienced brokers help simplify the process of moving and finding your dream home!