

While the public transportation in both cities is among the best in the country, nothing beats New York's MTA system. Plus, New York only averages about 25 inches of snowfall per year, whereas Chicago averages 35. Chicago is positioned on Lake Michigan, which doesn't do as much to warm the air and features a continental climate that is more frigid in the winter. New York has a "modified maritime" climate that is warmed and moisturized by the Atlantic Ocean. But Chicago tends to be slightly colder in the winter, while the summers are just as hot.

They both offer substantial seasonal changes with cold winters and dry summers. Neither city is particularly well known for its great weather, but New York tends to feature slightly favorable conditions. The average sales price of a home in New York is $745,000, while in Chicago, it's only around $315,000. The average cost of groceries and transportation is also more expensive in New York than in Chicago. In addition, in Chicago utility prices are actually 10% lower than the standard, whereas in New York, they are 25% higher. According to PayScale, the cost of living in New York is 129%, whereas it's only about 23% higher than average in Chicago. The cost of living in New York City is 85% more expensive than in the Windy City. New York is by far more expensive than Chicago. Here is an in-depth look at New York vs Chicago.

While the energy in New York City is unparalleled, Chicago also features a unique culture that is more laid back and less expensive. They each have a very different vibe and tend to attract a different demographic. Although they are very different cities, both have a lot to offer residents in terms of culture and employment opportunities. New York and Chicago are two of the largest cities in the United States and often face comparison.
