đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Brockton and Chicago
Head-to-Head Analysis
Brockton vs Chicago
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Brockton | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $79,990 | $74,474 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.7% | 4.2% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $500,000 | $365,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $319 | $261 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,488 | $1,507 |
| Housing Cost Index | 148.2 | 110.7 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 104.7 | 103.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $2.83 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 678.0 | 819.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 20.1% | 45.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 30 | 38 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
CHICAGO vs. BROCKTON: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
So, you're torn between the Windy City and the City of Champions. On paper, they’re two vastly different beasts. One is a global powerhouse of culture, finance, and deep-dish pizza. The other is a historic Massachusetts city that’s arguably more famous for a boxing champion than its real estate market.
But let’s cut through the noise. As a relocation expert, I’ve seen too many people move based on a vibe check alone, only to get hit with a financial sledgehammer six months in. Whether you’re a young gun looking to climb the corporate ladder or a family seeking a quieter life, the choice between Chicago and Brockton isn’t just about preference—it’s about survival.
Here’s the unvarnished, data-backed truth about where you should plant your roots.
THE VIBE CHECK: Big City Hustle vs. Historic Suburb
Let’s start with the soul of the city.
Chicago is a heavyweight champion of the Midwest. It’s a 24/7 metropolis where the skyline is king, the food scene is legendary, and the cultural calendar is packed. You’re not just living in a city; you’re living in an ecosystem. From the tech hubs of the Loop to the indie vibes of Wicker Park, Chicago offers a world-class urban experience. It’s for the ambitious, the culture-hungry, and anyone who wants endless options at their fingertips.
Brockton, on the other hand, is a proud, historic city in the Greater Boston area. It’s the "City of Champions" (thanks to Rocky Marciano and Marvelous Marvin Hagler), and that grit is part of its DNA. It’s a working-class hub that’s evolved into a diverse, suburban-style city with strong community ties. Think of it as a strategic base camp: it’s more affordable than Boston proper but still offers access to the powerhouse economy of Eastern Massachusetts. It’s for those who want a sense of community, a touch of history, and a life that’s a bit more grounded.
Who is each city for?
- Choose Chicago if: You crave the energy of a top-tier global city, love nightlife and architecture, and want a career in finance, tech, or the arts.
- Choose Brockton if: You want a quieter, more community-focused life but still need access to a major metro economy (Boston). It’s ideal for families who prioritize safety and a slower pace.
THE DOLLAR POWER: Where Does Your Salary Stretch?
This is the section that causes sticker shock. At first glance, Brockton’s median income is higher. But remember, income isn’t wealth—it’s what’s left after the bills are paid. Let’s break down the purchasing power.
First, the raw data on monthly expenses:
| Expense Category | Chicago (1BR Apartment) | Brockton (1BR Apartment) | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent | $1,507 | $1,488 | Brockton (by a hair) |
| Utilities (Approx.) | $150 - $200 | $200 - $250 | Chicago (less heating/cooling) |
| Groceries | $350 - $400 | $380 - $420 | Chicago (slightly) |
| Overall Cost of Living Index | 110.7 | 148.2 | Chicago (by a landslide) |
Analysis: The cost-of-living index is the smoking gun. 110.7 for Chicago means it’s about 10.7% above the national average. 148.2 for Brockton? That’s a staggering 48.2% above the national average. Why? Because Brockton is tethered to the hyper-expensive Boston metro area. Chicago, while not cheap, is far more affordable than its coastal peers.
Salary Wars: The $100,000 Test
Let’s say you earn a $100,000 salary. Where does that feel like more?
- In Chicago: Your take-home pay after taxes (approx. $74,000) gives you significant leverage. A $1,507 rent is about 24% of your pre-tax income, which is within the recommended 30% threshold. You can afford a nice apartment in a desirable neighborhood and still have money for fun.
- In Brockton: That same $100,000 salary feels tighter. The cost of living is nearly 50% higher. Groceries, taxes, and other goods are more expensive. Even with a slightly lower rent, your disposable income will be noticeably less. A $1,488 rent might seem similar, but when you factor in everything else, your dollar simply doesn’t go as far.
Verdict: Chicago wins the Dollar Power round. It offers a major metro experience at a price that’s far more digestible than a Boston-adjacent city like Brockton. The purchasing power in Chicago is significantly higher.
THE HOUSING MARKET: Buy vs. Rent
The American Dream often involves a white picket fence. Let’s see where it’s more attainable.
Buying a Home:
- Chicago: The median home price is $365,000. This buys you a condo, a townhouse, or a single-family home in many of the city’s neighborhoods (South Side, Northwest Side). The market is competitive but offers real value.
- Brockton: The median home price is $500,000. For that price, you’re likely getting a smaller, older single-family home. The housing index of 148.2 confirms you’re paying a premium for proximity to Boston.
Renting:
As the table showed, rent is a near-tie, but the context is everything. In Chicago, $1,507 gets you a modern apartment in a bustling district. In Brockton, $1,488 gets you a standard apartment in a quieter, more residential area.
Market Competition:
- Chicago: It’s a buyer’s market in many areas. With a large inventory of homes, you have negotiation power and more options to choose from.
- Brockton: The Boston metro area is perpetually a seller’s market. Homes sell fast, often above asking price. The competition is fierce, especially for starter homes.
Verdict: Chicago wins the Housing round. The median home price is $135,000 less than Brockton’s, and the entry point to ownership is far more accessible. For renters, while the price is similar, the value and location you get in Chicago are superior.
THE DEALBREAKERS: Quality of Life
This is where personal preferences weigh heavily.
Traffic & Commute:
- Chicago: A nightmare. The "L" (elevated train) is a lifesaver, but traffic on the Dan Ryan or the Kennedy is legendary. A 10-mile commute can easily take 45 minutes. Owning a car in the city is expensive and often unnecessary.
- Brockton: Commuting to Boston is the main challenge. It’s about 30 miles south, and while there are commuter rail options (the Providence/Stoughton Line), driving can be a slog on I-93 or Route 24. Traffic is lighter than Chicago but still significant.
Weather:
- Chicago: Brutal winters. The data says 21.0°F is the average winter low, but with wind chill, it can feel like -20°F. Summers are hot and humid. You need to love seasons (or at least tolerate them).
- Brockton: Milder winters than Chicago (average low 52.0°F—note: this seems like a yearly average, not winter low; MA winters are cold, but less extreme than Chicago). It’s also humid in summer but generally less windy. Weather is a win for Brockton if you hate the extreme cold.
Crime & Safety:
- Chicago: The violent crime rate is 819.0 incidents per 100,000 people. This is high. While crime is concentrated in specific neighborhoods, it’s a city-wide concern that affects daily life and housing choices.
- Brockton: The violent crime rate is 678.0 incidents per 100,000 people. While lower than Chicago’s, it’s still well above the national average (~380). Brockton has its own challenges, but it’s generally considered safer than Chicago’s most dangerous areas.
Verdict: This is a split decision. Brockton wins on Weather and relative Safety (lower crime rate). Chicago wins on Transportation (better public transit) but loses on extreme weather and higher crime.
THE VERDICT: Who Should Move Where?
After crunching the numbers and weighing the lifestyle factors, here’s the final call.
| Winner | City | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Families | BROCKTON | Winner! Lower crime rate, access to good schools in the suburbs, a community feel, and a slightly better climate. The higher cost of living is a trade-off for a safer, more stable environment for kids. |
| Singles/Young Pros | CHICAGO | Winner! The combination of a lower cost of living, massive job market, endless nightlife, and cultural options is unbeatable. You can build a career and a social life without being priced out. |
| Retirees | BROCKTON | Winner! Milder winters than Chicago, a quieter pace of life, and a strong sense of community make it a better fit. The proximity to Boston’s medical facilities is a major plus. |
FINAL PROS & CONS
CHICAGO
PROS:
- âś… World-Class City: Unmatched culture, food, and sports.
- âś… Affordable Major Metro: Lower cost of living than NYC, LA, or Boston.
- âś… Strong Job Market: Hub for finance, tech, healthcare, and logistics.
- âś… Superior Public Transit: You can live without a car.
- âś… Housing Value: More house for your money compared to other global cities.
CONS:
- ❌ Brutal Winters: The wind and cold are no joke.
- ❌ High Crime Rate: Safety varies drastically by neighborhood.
- ❌ Traffic: Can be soul-crushing during rush hour.
- ❌ City Taxes: High sales and property taxes.
BROCKTON
PROS:
- âś… Proximity to Boston: Access to a powerhouse economy without Boston prices.
- âś… Community Feel: Strong local identity and history.
- âś… Safer than Chicago: Lower violent crime rate.
- âś… Milder Weather: Less extreme winters than the Midwest.
- âś… Family-Friendly: Good schools and suburban amenities within the city.
CONS:
- ❌ High Cost of Living: Expensive for its size, tied to Boston’s economy.
- ❌ Limited Job Market: You’ll likely commute to Boston for high-paying roles.
- ❌ Fewer Cultural Amenities: No world-class museums or nightlife.
- ❌ Housing is Pricey: $500k median for a smaller home.
- ❌ Commuting Hassle: Traffic to Boston can be a daily grind.
The Bottom Line: If you’re chasing career growth, culture, and value, Chicago is your play. If you’re building a family or seeking a quieter life with access to a major metro, Brockton is the smarter, though pricier, choice. Choose wisely—your wallet and your happiness depend on it.