Bellevue vs Chicago

Category / Metric	Bellevue	Chicago
Financial Overview
Median Income	$87,343	$74,474
Unemployment Rate	3%	4.2%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$288,711	$365,000
Price per SqFt	$152	$261
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$878	$1,507
Housing Cost Index	87.3	110.7
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	95.2	103.3
Gas Price (Gallon)	$3.40	$3.40
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	312.5	819.0
Bachelor's Degree+	33.4%	45.7%
Air Quality (AQI)	25	38

Alright, let's cut through the noise. You're trying to decide between two cities that are polar opposites in almost every way. On one side, you have the Windy City—a gritty, iconic, world-class metropolis with deep roots. On the other, Bellevue—a sleek, tech-fueled, family-friendly suburb that feels more like a carefully curated community.

Choosing between them isn't just about geography; it's about choosing a lifestyle. So, grab your coffee, and let's break this down like we're planning your next big move.

The Vibe Check: Grit vs. Gleam

Chicago is the heavyweight champion of the Midwest. It’s a city that feels lived-in. You don't just visit Chicago; you experience it. It’s the smell of deep-dish pizza in the air, the roar of Wrigley Field, the architectural boat tours, and a world-class arts and culture scene that rivals any city on the planet. The energy is palpable, the neighborhoods are distinct, and the food scene is legendary. This is for the person who craves urban energy, diversity, and the feeling of being in a true global city. It’s for the culture vulture, the foodie, and the person who wants everything at their doorstep.

Bellevue, on the other hand, is the picture of modern, Pacific Northwest serenity. Nestled between Seattle and Redmond, it’s the heart of the Eastside tech corridor (Microsoft's backyard). The vibe is clean, efficient, and outdoorsy. Think pristine parks, stunning views of Lake Washington and the Cascade Mountains, and a downtown that feels more like a high-end corporate campus than a gritty urban center. It’s for the professional who values work-life balance, safety, and access to some of the best hiking, skiing, and kayaking in the country. This is for the tech worker, the young family prioritizing top-tier schools, and the person who wants a calm, orderly environment.

Verdict: If you want a city with soul, history, and non-stop action, Chicago wins. If you want a polished, safe, and nature-adjacent community with a tech-centric economy, Bellevue takes the crown.

The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Feel Bigger?

This is where the rubber meets the road. Let's talk real purchasing power.

First, the raw data. We're going to compare the essentials. Remember, these are medians, so your exact experience will vary.

Category	Chicago	Bellevue	The Takeaway
Median Home Price	$365,000	$288,711	Bellevue is 21% cheaper to buy a home.
Median Rent (1BR)	$1,507	$878	Bellevue is 42% cheaper to rent.
Housing Index	110.7	87.3	Chicago's housing market is 27% more expensive than the national average. Bellevue is actually 13% cheaper than the national average.
Median Income	$74,474	$87,343	Bellevue residents earn 17% more on average.

Now, let's get to the "Purchasing Power" showdown.

Scenario: You Earn $100,000.

In Bellevue, your $100k goes further, but not as much as you'd think. Washington has no state income tax, which is a massive win. However, the cost of living (outside of housing) is high. Groceries, utilities, and services are more expensive than the national average. Your $100k in Bellevue feels solid, but you'll pay a premium for that pristine environment and access to tech hubs.

In Chicago, Illinois has a state income tax of 4.95%. On a $100k salary, that's about $4,950 gone off the top. However, Chicago's housing costs, while high, are more reasonable than Bellevue's relative to income. The bigger hit is the overall cost of goods and services, which can be high in a major metro. Your $100k in Chicago feels more like $90k after taxes, but your housing dollar stretches a bit further if you're buying.

The Tax Talk: Bellevue’s 0% state income tax is a huge financial advantage, especially for high earners. Chicago’s state income tax is a permanent drain, but it funds the city's extensive public services and infrastructure (like the CTA).

Verdict: For pure salary-to-cost ratio, Bellevue often wins, especially for tech professionals. The no-income-tax benefit is massive. However, Chicago offers a more affordable entry point into homeownership for a major city.

The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent

Chicago: The market is competitive, but it’s a buyer’s market in many neighborhoods. You get a lot of bang for your buck—think historic brownstones, classic Chicago bungalows, and high-rise condos with lake views. The inventory is vast, giving you options from the trendy West Loop to the quieter North Shore suburbs. Renting is a popular option due to mobility, but buying is a realistic goal for many.

Bellevue: This is a seller’s market, hands down. The inventory is tight, and competition is fierce, driven by a constant influx of well-paid tech workers. You’re buying into a community with exceptional schools, manicured streets, and high resale value. The median home price is lower, but you'll likely face bidding wars. It’s a long-term investment in a stable, high-growth area.

Verdict: If you want more options and potentially less competition when buying, Chicago has the edge. If you’re looking for a stable, high-appreciation asset in a community-focused environment, Bellevue is your target, but be prepared for a fight.

The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

Traffic & Commute

Chicago: A beast. The "L" (elevated train) is a lifeline and a fantastic public transit system, but driving is a nightmare. The Dan Ryan and Kennedy Expressways are legendary for traffic. If you live and work in the city, you can avoid a car. Suburban commuters face long drives.
Bellevue: Traffic is congested, especially on I-405 and I-90, but it's a different scale than Chicago. Most people drive. Public transit exists (buses, light rail to Seattle) but is less comprehensive than Chicago's system. The commute can be long if you work in Seattle but live in Bellevue.

Winner: Chicago for public transit; Bellevue for shorter average commute times if you work locally.

Weather

Chicago: Brutal winters. The data shows an average low of 21°F, but with wind chill, it can feel like -10°F or colder. Summers are hot and humid (90°F+). It's a city of four distinct, intense seasons. You need a serious winter wardrobe.
Bellevue: Milder, but gray. Winters are cool (average low 32°F), rarely freezing hard. Summers are dry and pleasant, rarely hitting 90°F. The big trade-off is the "Big Gray"—overcast skies and rain for a significant portion of the year (Oct-May). It's a damp chill, not a dry cold.

Winner: Bellevue for milder temperatures; Chicago for more sunshine and distinct seasons (if you can handle the cold).

Crime & Safety

Chicago: Crime is a complex topic. The violent crime rate is 819.0 per 100k, which is high. However, this is heavily concentrated in specific South and West Side neighborhoods. Many neighborhoods on the North Side and in the suburbs are incredibly safe. It’s a city of stark contrasts.
Bellevue: Violent crime is 312.5 per 100k, significantly lower than Chicago. It’s consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in America. You can walk around at night with a high degree of comfort. It’s a major selling point for families.

Winner: Bellevue, by a landslide. It’s not even close on the safety metrics.

The Final Verdict

This isn't about one city being "better" than the other. It's about which city is the right fit for you.

Winner for Families: Bellevue

The data is clear. Bellevue wins for families. The combination of top-tier public schools, exceptionally low violent crime (312.5 vs. 819.0), abundant parks, and a community-oriented environment makes it a no-brainer. The median home price is lower, and the suburbs offer safe, walkable neighborhoods. The weather, while gray, is less extreme for kids.

Winner for Singles/Young Pros: Chicago

For a single person or young professional in their 20s and 30s, Chicago is the undisputed champion. The nightlife, dating scene, cultural institutions, restaurant diversity, and sheer energy are unmatched. You can live in a vibrant neighborhood without a car, and the cost of entry (rent) is more manageable than in Bellevue. The social opportunities are endless.

Winner for Retirees: Bellevue (with a caveat)

This is a tough call. Bellevue wins for retirees seeking a safe, calm, beautiful environment with excellent healthcare (Swedish Medical Center is top-notch). No state income tax on retirement income is a huge plus. However, for retirees who crave culture, walkability, and a more vibrant social scene, Chicago (specifically neighborhoods like Lincoln Park or the Gold Coast) might be more fulfilling. The brutal winters, however, are a major drawback for older adults. For most, Bellevue's safety and serenity will win out.

Final Pros & Cons

Chicago: The Urban Powerhouse

Pros:

World-class culture, food, and sports.
Extensive public transit (CTA).
More affordable home prices for a major metro.
Vibrant, diverse neighborhoods with unique character.
Four distinct seasons with beautiful summers.

Cons:

High violent crime rate (concentrated but real).
Brutal, windy winters (21°F average).
High state income tax (4.95%).
Traffic congestion is legendary.
Can feel overwhelming and gritty.

Bellevue: The Polished Escape