đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Beaverton and Chicago
Head-to-Head Analysis
Beaverton vs Chicago
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Beaverton | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $92,650 | $74,474 |
| Unemployment Rate | 5.2% | 4.2% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $581,050 | $365,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $275 | $261 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,545 | $1,507 |
| Housing Cost Index | 124.6 | 110.7 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 104.6 | 103.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 178.0 | 819.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 50.7% | 45.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 55 | 38 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Chicago vs. Beaverton: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
So, you're caught in a classic American city-versus-suburb showdown. On one side, you've got Chicago—the Windy City, a gritty, world-class metropolis with deep-dish pizza, iconic architecture, and a rhythm all its own. On the other, Beaverton, Oregon—the quintessential Pacific Northwest suburb, nestled in the shadow of Portland, known for its tech scene, lush greenery, and a vibe that screams "active, outdoorsy, and family-friendly."
This isn't just about picking a zip code; it's about picking a lifestyle. Are you craving the electric buzz of a global city, or the serene, balanced life of a well-planned suburb? Let's break it down, head-to-head, with no holds barred. We'll dig into the data, weigh the costs, and I'll give you the straight talk you need to decide.
The Vibe Check: Urban Jungle vs. Suburban Sanctuary
Chicago is a beast of a city. With a population of 2.6 million, it’s a dense, diverse, and unapologetically urban beast. The vibe here is fast-paced, culturally rich, and endlessly stimulating. You can hop from a world-class museum to a Michelin-starred restaurant to a gritty blues club—all in one day. It’s a city for people who feed off energy, who want endless options for dining, nightlife, and entertainment. Think of it as the big league: if you’re ambitious, love the hustle, and want a city that feels like it’s always moving, Chicago is your arena.
Beaverton, with a population of just 96,946, is the polar opposite. It’s a master-planned suburb that prioritizes livability over spectacle. The vibe is laid-back, active, and community-focused. Think farmers' markets, sprawling parks, bike trails, and a tech-forward workforce (it’s home to Nike’s world headquarters). It’s a haven for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and professionals who want a high quality of life without the chaos of a major downtown core. If Chicago is a roaring concert, Beaverton is a peaceful hike in the woods followed by a craft beer at a local brewery.
Who’s it for?
- Chicago is for the urbanist, the culture vulture, the young professional climbing the corporate ladder, and anyone who believes convenience trumps quiet.
- Beaverton is for the family-settler, the outdoorsy type, the tech worker who wants a short commute, and anyone who values safety and space over a 24/7 city buzz.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Really Go?
Let’s talk money. On the surface, the numbers look surprisingly similar, but the devil is in the details. We’re comparing cost of living, taxes, and that crucial metric: purchasing power.
Cost of Living Breakdown
| Category | Chicago, IL | Beaverton, OR | The Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $365,000 | $581,050 | Beaverton is 59% more expensive. This is the biggest differentiator. |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,507 | $1,545 | Almost identical. The rental market is tight in both, but you're paying a premium for Beaverton's desirability. |
| Housing Index | 110.7 | 124.6 | A higher index means more expensive. Beaverton’s housing market is significantly pricier. |
| Utilities | ~$150/month | ~$140/month | Negligible difference. Both have seasonal heating/cooling costs. |
| Groceries | ~10% above nat'l avg | ~10% above nat'l avg | Consistently pricey in both urban and Pacific NW locales. |
Salary Wars: The $100k Test
Let’s say you earn $100,000 a year. Where does it feel like more?
In Chicago: You’re earning $74,474 (median income). Your $100k puts you comfortably above the median. With a median home price of $365,000, you’re looking at a mortgage that’s more attainable. However, Illinois has a flat state income tax of 4.95%. After federal and state taxes, your take-home is roughly $74,000. Rent is $1,507, leaving you with a sizable chunk of change for entertainment, transit, and savings. Your purchasing power for housing is significantly stronger here.
In Beaverton: You’re earning $92,650 (median income). Your $100k is still solid, but you’re competing with a higher median. The median home price is a staggering $581,050. That’s $216,050 more than Chicago. Oregon has no state sales tax (huge for daily life) but a progressive income tax that tops out at 9.9%. On a $100k salary, your take-home is roughly $76,000—slightly better than Chicago due to the lack of sales tax. But rent is $1,545, and that massive home price tag looms large. Your money goes further on daily goods, but the housing hurdle is monumental.
Insight: Chicago offers better purchasing power for housing. Beaverton offers better purchasing power for daily goods and services (thanks to 0% sales tax). If owning a home is your goal, Chicago is the financial winner. If you plan to rent long-term and value no sales tax, Beaverton is competitive.
VERDICT on Dollar Power:
Winner: Chicago. For the average earner, the gap between income and home prices is far more manageable in Chicago, giving you more financial breathing room.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent & The Competition
Chicago: The market is a tale of two cities. In desirable neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Lakeview, or the Gold Coast, you’re in a seller’s market with fierce competition and prices well above the median. However, vast swaths of the South and West Sides offer incredible value, though with their own socioeconomic challenges. The city’s housing stock is a mix of historic brownstones, classic brick walk-ups, and modern high-rises. Renting is a popular and viable long-term option, with more inventory than a pure suburb.
Beaverton: This is a red-hot seller’s market, period. The Portland metro area has a chronic housing shortage. With a median home price of $581,050, you’re paying a premium for the school districts, safety, and proximity to Nike and Intel. Competition is fierce; bidding wars are common, and cash offers often beat out financed ones. The housing stock is primarily single-family homes, with some townhomes and condos. Renting is just as competitive, with low vacancy rates.
The Bottom Line:
- Buying: Chicago is the more accessible entry point for homeownership. Beaverton requires a higher income and a willingness to navigate a hyper-competitive market.
- Renting: Similar costs, but Beaverton’s market is tighter. Chicago offers more variety and flexibility in neighborhoods.
VERDICT on Housing:
Winner: Chicago. While prices are rising everywhere, Chicago’s median home price is $216,000 less than Beaverton’s, making the dream of ownership far more attainable for the median earner.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
This is where personal preference reigns supreme. Let’s lay out the gritty details.
Traffic & Commute
- Chicago: Commuting is an art form. The “L” train system is extensive and reliable, making car-free living a real option. However, rush hour on the expressways (the Dan Ryan, the Kennedy) is legendary for gridlock. The average commute is 35 minutes. Parking in the city is a nightmare and expensive.
- Beaverton: This is a car-dependent suburb. While there’s a decent bus system and the MAX light rail connects to Portland, you’ll likely need a car for daily errands. Traffic on Highway 26 and around the Nike campus can be brutal during rush hour. The average commute is shorter, around 25 minutes, but it’s almost always by car.
Weather: The Great Divider
- Chicago: Brutally cold winters. The data says 21.0°F for a January average, but that’s just the start. The Windy City lives up to its name with biting lake-effect winds, heavy snowfall, and gray skies that can last for months. Summers are hot and humid (90°F+ is common). It’s a true four-season climate, but winter is a serious commitment.
- Beaverton: The classic Pacific Northwest. The data shows a milder 37.0°F winter average, but don’t be fooled. The real story is the rain. Beaverton is green and lush for a reason—it drizzles or rains for about 150 days a year. Summers are glorious—dry, sunny, and rarely above 85°F. Winters are gray and damp, not brutally cold. For sun-lovers, the lack of vitamin D from October to May can be a dealbreaker.
Crime & Safety
- Chicago: This is the elephant in the room. The violent crime rate is 819.0 per 100,000 people. It’s a statistical reality that varies wildly by neighborhood. Areas like the Loop, Lincoln Park, and the North Side are generally very safe. However, violence is concentrated in specific neighborhoods on the South and West Sides. You must do your neighborhood research.
- Beaverton: A different world. The violent crime rate is 178.0 per 100,000—less than a quarter of Chicago’s. It’s consistently ranked as one of the safest cities of its size in the U.S. You can leave your bike unlocked in the driveway (though not recommended) and feel safe walking at night. This is a massive factor for families.
Weather & Safety Verdict:
VERDICT on Weather:
Winner: Beaverton. For those who hate snow and extreme cold, Beaverton’s mild winters win. But if you crave sunshine in the summer and can handle cold, Chicago’s summers are unbeatable.VERDICT on Safety:
Winner: Beaverton. No contest. The data is clear: Beaverton is dramatically safer.
The Final Verdict: Which City Should You Choose?
After crunching the numbers and living in the data, here’s the final breakdown.
Winner for Families: Beaverton
Why: It’s a slam dunk. Top-tier school districts, exceptionally low violent crime (178/100k), abundant parks and outdoor activities, and a strong sense of community. The higher home price is the trade-off for a safer, more stable environment for raising kids. The Pacific Northwest lifestyle—focus on health, nature, and balance—is ideal for family life.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Chicago
Why: The cultural and professional opportunities are unmatched. You can build a career in finance, law, tech, or the arts, and your social life will never be boring. The cost of entry (rent) is manageable, and you can live without a car. The energy, diversity, and sheer number of people your age create a dynamic environment for networking and fun. Beaverton can feel isolating for a young single person used to city life.
Winner for Retirees: It Depends (But Leans Beaverton)
- Choose Chicago if: You want walkability, world-class healthcare (Northwestern, Rush, UChicago are top-tier), cultural activities (museums, theater), and don’t mind the cold. The city’s public transit is a lifeline for those who no longer drive.
- Choose Beaverton if: Your priority is safety, mild weather (no snow shoveling!), and access to stunning outdoor recreation (hiking, golf, coastal trips). The lack of state sales tax is a bonus for fixed incomes. However, you’ll need a car.
At a Glance: Pros & Cons
Chicago: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Unbeatable Culture: World-class museums, theater, music, and food scene.
- Strong Job Market: Diverse industries from finance to tech to manufacturing.
- Public Transit: One of the best in the U.S., making car-free living feasible.
- Relative Affordability: Median home price is $365,000—more attainable than many major metros.
- Vibrant Social Scene: Endless options for nightlife, events, and meeting people.
Cons:
- High Crime Rate: 819.0/100k violent crime rate requires careful neighborhood selection.
- Brutal Winters: Long, cold, snowy, and gray winters can be draining.
- High Taxes: Combined state and city income taxes, plus high property taxes.
- Traffic & Parking: A daily frustration for drivers.
Beaverton: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Extremely Safe: Violent crime rate of 178.0/100k is incredibly low.
- Outdoor Access: Proximity to mountains, forests, and the Pacific Coast.
- Great Schools: Consistently high-performing public school districts.
- Mild Climate: No harsh winters or extreme summer heat.
- No Sales Tax: 0% state sales tax saves money on everyday purchases.
Cons:
- Expensive Housing: Median home price of $581,050 is a huge barrier.
- Car-Dependent: Public transit is limited; you’ll need a vehicle.
- "Seattle Freeze" Vibe: Socially, it can be harder to break into established groups.
- Lack of Urban Buzz: Can feel sleepy or boring if you crave big-city energy.
- Rains a Lot: Gray, drizzly weather for a big chunk of the year.
The Bottom Line
There is no "better" city—only the city that's better for you.
Choose Chicago if you value urban energy, cultural depth, and a more affordable path to homeownership, and you're willing to trade brutal winters and higher crime stats for a world-class city experience.
Choose Beaverton if you prioritize safety, schools, and outdoor living above all else, and you're willing to pay a premium for housing and deal with a car-centric, rain-prone lifestyle.
Your move.