New York vs. Chicago: Too Tough? Let Us Help You Decide!

New York vs Chicago—it’s one of the hottest debates out there when it comes to picking the perfect city for your study abroad experience! But before we dive into this epic battle, let’s start with the real question: Why? The Great American Dream attracts more than 1,000,000 students to the USA each year. Studying anywhere in the USA comes with the world’s best institutions, an ultra-convenient lifestyle, and global exposure, all wrapped in non-stop fun. But, the toughest part? Choosing your city.

So, how do you make this choice? On what basis? We’ll answer all the burning questions, like the cost of living in New York vs Chicago, lifestyle, education, and safety. So, get ready for the most intense competition of the year. Think Chicago Bulls vs. New York Knicks—you never know which city will win your heart! Let’s find out the winner of NYC vs Chicago!

Spoiler alert: Both cities have their perks, but you might just find that one stands out for YOU!

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Top Universities In New York vs Chicago

When it comes to New York vs Chicago for students, both cities stand out for their prestigious universities, diverse programs, and unique student life experiences. Whether you're considering student housing in New York City or student housing in Chicago, understanding the academic offerings, cost of living, and lifestyle in these two cities will help you make an informed choice. Let’s dive into a comparison of the best universities in New York vs Chicago and everything else you need to know.

Top Universities in New York

New York is a dynamic city known for its world-class universities and colleges. Whether you're looking for a globally recognized institution or a specialized program, New York has it all. Here’s a look at some of the top universities that make this city a hub for education.

Top Universities in New York

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University	Location	QS Rank	Top Majors	Annual Fees
Columbia University	Manhattan	34	- Law - Business - Engineering - Social Science	$68,000 - $93,000
New York University (NYU)	Manhattan	43	- Liberal studies - Research and experimental psychology - Quantitative economics - Digital communication and media/multimedia	$39,000 - $88,000
Cornell University	Ithaca	16	- Computer science - Hotel Management - Agricultural economics - Biological sciences	$29,000 - $89,000
City University of New York (CUNY)	Manhattan	661-670	- Business management - Engineering and Architecture - Humanities & Social Sciences	$4,800 - $18,600
The New School	NYC	781-790	- Visual and Performing Arts - Computer Science - Communication - Liberal Arts	$47,890 - $56,900

Top Universities in Chicago

Chicago is not only a cultural and financial hub, but it also boasts some of the finest universities in the US. Whether you are looking for cutting-edge research facilities, strong community engagement, or access to industries, Chicago’s universities provide exceptional opportunities. Here are some of the top universities in the city:

Top Universities in Chicago

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University	Location	QS Rank	Top Majors	Annual Fees
University of Chicago	Chicago	21	- Social Science - Mathematics - Computer Science - Biological Sciences	$67,446 - $70,000
Northwestern University	Evanston	50	- Econometrics and Quantitative Economics - Psychology - Digital Communication - Computer Science	$67,158 - $69,200
University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC)	Chicago	365	- Health Sciences - Business - Engineering - Liberal Arts	$18,000 - $46,400
DePaul University	Chicago	NA	- Finance - Cinematography - Psychology - Business Administration	$45,100 - $62,500
Loyola University Chicago	Chicago	1001-1200	- Psychology - Biology - Finance - Political Science and Government	$33,600 - $73,900

Cost of Living in New York vs Chicago for Students

Now, let’s talk about the money! The cost of living in New York vs Chicago is where these cities really start to differ. Living in New York vs Chicago will be a big factor in your decision.

New York consistently ranks among the most expensive cities in the US, with the overall cost of living being approximately 50% higher than the cost of living in Chicago. Several factors contribute to this significant difference, with major variances in housing, transportation, utilities, groceries, healthcare, and lifestyle expenses. For students, you can expect living expenses in New York to be about $2,000-$3,500 per month, while students in Chicago will pay an average of $1,500-$2,500 per month for similar living arrangements. Here’s a quick comparison of living costs between New York vs Chicago:

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Cost of Living in New York vs Chicago

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Cost Factor	New York	Chicago
Average Rent	$5,421/month (for a one-bedroom apartment)	$2,202/month (for a one-bedroom apartment)
Utilities	$200–$250/month	$150–$200/month
Groceries	$300–$400/month	$270–$350/month
Transportation (Monthly)	$127 (subway/bus pass)	$105 (CTA pass)
Healthcare	$400–$500/month	$300–$400/month
Dining Out	$20–$40 per meal	$15–$30 per meal

1. Utilities:

New York: Utility costs in NYC are approximately 14% higher than in Chicago. The densely populated areas and older infrastructure in New York, especially Manhattan, contribute to higher electricity and water costs. Electricity costs in New York can average around $200-$250 per month, depending on the apartment size.
Chicago: In contrast, Chicago’s utility costs are more manageable, with an average of $150-$200 per month. The city's newer infrastructure and more moderate climate help keep these costs lower.

2. Groceries:

New York: The cost of groceries in NYC is about 10% higher than in Chicago. Due to high demand, limited storage, and long-distance shipping, grocery costs in NYC can run about $300-$400 per month for a single person. The city’s reliance on imports and smaller grocery stores adds to the expense.
Chicago: Chicago benefits from its proximity to agricultural regions, making grocery prices more affordable. Average monthly grocery expenses in Chicago are around $270-$350. Chicago’s more abundant local supply helps keep prices lower compared to New York.

3. Transportation:

New York: Transportation costs in NYC are about 7% higher than in Chicago. A monthly subway or bus pass in NYC can cost around $127 in 2024. On top of this, New York parking fees average between $350 and $500 per month, depending on the neighborhood.
Chicago: Chicago’s transportation system is more affordable. A monthly CTA pass in 2024 costs approximately $105, and parking fees in Chicago are generally 20%-30% lower than those in New York. Chicago’s public transit system offers more cost-effective solutions for getting around the city.

4. Healthcare:

New York: Healthcare in NYC is about 19% more expensive than in Chicago. Due to higher demand and the elevated cost of real estate for medical facilities, healthcare services in New York are significantly pricier. Basic health insurance premiums in NYC can be around $400-$500 per month for a single person.
Chicago: Healthcare is more affordable in Chicago, with basic insurance premiums averaging $300-$400 per month. The competitive medical landscape in Chicago and its relatively lower operational costs keep healthcare expenses lower than in New York.

5. Lifestyle:

New York: Lifestyle expenses in New York are 14% higher than in Chicago. The city offers world-class dining, arts, and entertainment, but these come at a premium. For example, attending a Broadway show in New York can cost $100-$250 per ticket. Dining out in NYC will cost around $20-$40 per meal at a mid-range restaurant.
Chicago: In contrast, Chicago offers similar experiences at a more reasonable cost. Tickets to live events are typically around $50-$100, and dining out at mid-range restaurants can cost $15-$30 per meal. Chicago offers a vibrant cultural scene and high-end restaurants at a more affordable price point than New York.

Student Housing: New York vs Chicago

When it comes to student housing, New York and Chicago offer very different experiences in terms of cost, space, and living options. Whether you're moving to study in the heart of Manhattan student housing or opting for a more spacious apartment in Chicago, both cities provide unique environments for students. Let’s dive into the differences in student housing between these two iconic cities.

Student Housing in New York City

New York City offers a vast range of housing options for students, from luxury apartments to more budget-friendly dorms in various boroughs. As one of the most expensive cities to live in, students in NYC often seek shared apartments or dormitory-style housing to make the cost more manageable. Housing in NYC is typically compact due to high demand and limited space, especially in Manhattan. However, student housing in NYC provides access to world-class universities, cultural experiences, and an unmatched urban lifestyle.

Median Rent for Students: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in New York City is around $5,421 per month. For students, sharing apartments is common, and rent can be more affordable in areas like Queens or the Bronx, where rents average between $1,800 to $3,000 per month.
Types of Housing: Students in NYC typically opt for shared apartments, student dormitories, or private apartments. Manhattan, especially, is home to numerous luxury high-rises, though these come with a hefty price tag. For more affordable options, students often turn to Brooklyn and Queens, where rents are relatively lower but still high compared to other cities.
Benefits: Proximity to universities like Columbia University, New York University (NYU), and The City University of New York (CUNY) makes NYC a highly desirable place to live. Living in Manhattan or Brooklyn places students near cultural landmarks, public transport hubs, and endless entertainment options.

Student Housing in Chicago

Compared to New York, Chicago offers a more affordable and spacious housing market, making it an attractive option for many students. With its blend of urban and suburban housing, Chicago gives students a variety of choices, from downtown condos to spacious houses in quieter neighborhoods.

Type of Housing: In Chicago, students often find themselves choosing from shared apartments, dormitories, and off-campus housing. The city's suburban areas, like Lincoln Park and Bucktown, are popular among students and offer a quieter, more affordable alternative to downtown living. Apartments in Chicago are often larger, offering students more space for their money.
Median Rent for Students: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Chicago is much more affordable compared to NYC, with prices averaging around $2,202 per month. For students, renting a room in a shared apartment can cost as low as $800-$1,500 per month, depending on the neighborhood.
Benefits: In addition to more affordable rent, students in Chicago enjoy a less crowded urban environment. The city offers green spaces, bike-friendly streets, and a relaxed pace of life compared to the hustle and bustle of NYC. Chicago's public transport system makes commuting easy and affordable, allowing students to live in less expensive neighborhoods while still being close to their campuses.

Job Market In New York vs Chicago

The job markets in New York and Chicago are both dynamic and diverse, offering excellent career opportunities in various industries. However, New York vs Chicago job opportunities differ slightly in terms of industries and salary expectations. Below is a detailed table to help you understand what each city offers in terms of career growth.

Job Market In New York vs Chicago

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Factors	New York	Chicago
Employment Rate	58.4% (as of January 2025)	59.3% (as of January 2025)
Unemployment Rate	4.2% (as of January 2025)	3.6% (as of January 2025)
Key Industries	Finance, Healthcare, Tech, Media, Real Estate	Finance, Manufacturing, Health, Tech, Logistics
Salary Expectations	Average salary: $74,000 - $80,000/year	Average salary: $60,000 - $68,000/year
Job Opportunities	Strong in tech, media, healthcare, and finance	Strong in manufacturing, tech, and logistics
Job Market Growth	1.4% projected growth (2024 - 2026)	2.3% projected growth (2024 - 2026)
Top Companies	JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, Google, Verizon	Boeing, McDonald's, Caterpillar, Walgreens

Public Transportation in New York vs Chicago

When it comes to public transportation, both New York and Chicago offer robust systems, but each city has its own unique vibe and logistical strengths. Here’s the rundown on New York vs Chicago public transportation.

New York Public Transportation

Walk Score: 88
Bike Score: 69
Transit Score: 89

New York City is renowned for its extensive and iconic subway system, with 24/7 service across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. The MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) operates over 450 stations, offering easy access to nearly every corner of the city. Whether you're commuting, exploring neighborhoods, or heading to class, the subway is the most efficient way to get around. Additionally, the city's buses cover areas not served by the subway, making public transportation comprehensive. Taxis and ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available, but they come with the risk of traffic congestion, especially during rush hour.

Chicago Public Transportation

Walk Score: 77
Bike Score: 72
Transit Score: 65

Chicago, on the other hand, has the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority), which operates the "L" train system (short for "elevated") with both elevated tracks and underground tunnels. The L is known for its distinct color-coded lines, providing easy navigation to major areas of the city. While the L is not as expansive as New York's subway system, it’s still an efficient way to travel between neighborhoods.

Buses also serve Chicago’s vast urban area, and unlike New York, Chicago's transit system is generally known for being more affordable and offering faster routes through less congested roads.

Comparing New York Vs Chicago Public Transport:

New York Vs Chicago Public Transport

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Mode of Transport	NYC	Chicago	Comparison
Subway / L Train	The MTA subway is 24/7 and covers all five boroughs	The L operates less frequently (stopping at midnight) and covers fewer areas but is efficient	New York has a more extensive subway system, while Chicago's L is more manageable in terms of crowds but with limited coverage
Bus	24/7 coverage with numerous routes. Can be slower due to traffic	CTA buses run through many areas not covered by the L but can be slow due to traffic	Both cities have reliable bus networks, but New York has a larger bus fleet with wider coverage, while Chicago buses serve more specific routes
Taxi & Ride-Sharing	Widely available with high frequency, especially in Manhattan	Easily available, though not as dense as New York	New York offers more taxis, while Chicago's ride-sharing options are less frequent but still convenient
Car (Personal Vehicle)	Parking is costly, and traffic is always an issue in Manhattan	Traffic exists but is less overwhelming than in New York; parking is somewhat more affordable	Chicago is more car-friendly in terms of affordability and traffic flow, while New York struggles with congestion and expensive parking

Safety And Crime Rate: New York vs Chicago

When comparing the safety of New York City and Chicago, many people focus on the crime rates in both cities. Although both cities are major urban centers with their own challenges, New York has experienced a significant drop in crime over the past few years, making it one of the safest large cities in the United States.

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New York City Crime Statistics

US News Crime Index: 8.1

New York has undergone significant changes over the past few decades, with a noticeable drop in crime rates, especially in Manhattan. However, like any large city, some neighborhoods still face higher crime rates. According to the NYPD’s official data, New York’s crime rate has seen a steady drop since 2021. NYC Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch mentions a nearly 3% drop in crimes in 2024 compared to the previous year. Year after year, the city has seen a 15.5% decrease in violent crimes alone. Students can find some of the safest neighborhoods in New York to stay near their university.

Chicago Crime Statistics

US News Crime Index: 7.6

Chicago’s crime rate, particularly in certain areas, remains higher than that of New York. However, the city is still considered safe in many neighborhoods, especially around university campuses. As per the latest report from the Chicago Police Department, violent crimes in the city have dropped by 18% in 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. When choosing the city, it's important to research and avoid Chicago’s dangerous neighborhoods to ensure safety during your time there.

Cheapest Neighborhoods in New York vs Chicago for Students

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When choosing a place to live as a student or someone on a budget, finding affordable areas can make a huge difference. Both Chicago and New York City have neighborhoods that offer affordable rent and living expenses.

Top 3 cheapest neighborhoods in Chicago for students

1. Albany Park

2. Jefferson Park

3. Logan Square

Top 3 cheapest suburbs in NYC

1. Inwood (Manhattan)

2. Sunset Park (Brooklyn)

3. Jackson Heights (Queens)

Conclusion: Best City for Students – New York vs Chicago

So, New York vs Chicago for students—which city should you pick? It all depends on your priorities!

If you’re looking for a fast-paced lifestyle, big-city energy, and top universities, New York might be calling your name. Just be prepared for the cost of living in New York to be higher.
If you want to enjoy city life with more space, affordable rent, and a slightly slower pace, Chicago could be the perfect place to study. You’ll save on living costs while still getting a great education and cultural experience!

Living in Chicago vs New York as a student will ultimately depend on your budget, lifestyle preferences, and academic goals. So, what’s it gonna be? The Big Apple or The Windy City? Either way, your study adventure is about to get a whole lot more exciting!