đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Essex Junction and Chicago
Head-to-Head Analysis
Essex Junction vs Chicago
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Essex Junction | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $94,423 | $74,474 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.6% | 4.2% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $472,500 | $365,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $304 | $261 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,250 | $1,507 |
| Housing Cost Index | 101.7 | 110.7 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 96.3 | 103.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 173.3 | 819.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 50.3% | 45.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 36 | 38 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Chicago vs. Essex Junction: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
You’re standing at a crossroads. On one side, there’s the Windy City—a massive, iconic metropolis with deep-dish pizza, world-class museums, and a skyline that pierces the clouds. On the other, Essex Junction—a quiet, suburban village in Vermont, nestled among rolling green hills and maple trees, where the pace slows and the air feels cleaner.
This isn't just a choice between two cities; it's a choice between two lifestyles. Are you chasing the electric pulse of urban life, or the serene rhythm of small-town America? Let's cut through the noise and break down the data, the dollars, and the daily realities to help you decide where to plant your roots.
The Vibe Check: Fast-Paced Metro vs. Laid-Back Village
Chicago is a heavyweight contender in the global city arena. It’s a 24/7 hustle, a place where ambition is a currency and the city itself feels like a living, breathing organism. The vibe is diverse, gritty, and unapologetically bold. You’ll find world-class architecture, a legendary food scene (from Michelin stars to hot dog stands), and a cultural calendar packed with festivals, concerts, and theater. It’s for the career-driven professional, the foodie, the arts lover, and anyone who thrives on the energy of millions of neighbors. If you crave anonymity in the crowd and endless options, Chicago calls your name.
Essex Junction is the definition of a quintessential Vermont village. It’s part of the larger Burlington metro area, but it maintains its own distinct, tight-knit community feel. The vibe here is peaceful, neighborly, and deeply connected to the outdoors. Life revolves around the seasons: hiking and lake activities in the summer, foliage tours in the fall, skiing in the winter, and maple sugaring in the spring. It’s for those seeking a slower pace, a stronger sense of community, and a life where nature is always just out your back door. If you want to know your neighbors by name and prioritize work-life balance, Essex Junction is your sanctuary.
Who is each city for?
- Chicago: The urbanist, the career climber, the culture vulture.
- Essex Junction: The nature lover, the family-oriented, the peace seeker.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Stretch Further?
Let’s get real about money. Earning a six-figure salary feels very different in these two places. We’ll use a hypothetical $100,000 income to illustrate "purchasing power."
The Data Breakdown:
| Category | Chicago, IL | Essex Junction, VT | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $74,474 | $94,423 | Essex Junction |
| Median Home Price | $365,000 | $472,500 | Chicago |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,507 | $1,250 | Essex Junction |
| Housing Index | 110.7 | 101.7 | Essex Junction |
| State Income Tax | 4.95% (Flat) | 3.35% - 8.75% (Progressive) | Chicago* |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
At first glance, Essex Junction’s higher median income ($94,423 vs. $74,474) suggests a wealthier populace. And it is. But here’s the catch: the cost of living, especially for housing, is where the rubber meets the road.
- Renters: Essex Junction is the clear winner. Your $1,250 rent for a 1BR goes further than Chicago’s $1,507. That’s a monthly savings of $257, or over $3,000 a year.
- Buyers: This is where it gets tricky. Chicago’s median home price is $365,000, while Essex Junction’s is a staggering $472,500. That’s a $107,500 premium for a Vermont village. The Housing Index confirms this—Essex Junction is closer to the national average (101.7), while Chicago is more expensive (110.7). For a buyer, Chicago offers more bang for your buck in the real estate market.
The Tax Twist: This is a huge deal. Illinois has a flat state income tax of 4.95%. Vermont, however, has a progressive tax system. If you earn $100,000, you’re paying 3.35% on the first chunk, but it climbs to 6.6%, 7.6%, and finally 8.75% on higher brackets. You’ll likely pay more in state income taxes in Vermont than in Illinois on that same salary.
Verdict on Purchasing Power: If you’re a renter, Essex Junction offers better value. If you’re a buyer, Chicago is more affordable. However, the higher median income in Essex Junction helps offset the higher home prices for residents there.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent & Market Competition
Chicago's Market:
- Buy vs. Rent: The market is a mixed bag. With a median home price of $365,000, it’s more accessible than many major coastal cities, but it’s still a significant investment. The rental market is robust and competitive, especially in desirable neighborhoods like Lincoln Park or the West Loop.
- Availability: It’s a massive market with constant turnover. You’ll find everything from historic brownstones to modern high-rises. Competition exists, but the sheer volume of listings means you have options. It’s generally a balanced market, leaning slightly toward buyers in some areas and sellers in others.
Essex Junction's Market:
- Buy vs. Rent: The home prices are steep ($472,500) for a small village, reflecting the high demand for Vermont’s quality of life and the limited supply of homes. Renting is a more financially viable entry point, but rental inventory is extremely low. You’re competing with a small pool of properties.
- Availability: This is a seller’s market. Inventory is chronically low. Homes sell fast, often above asking price, especially those with land or mountain views. If you’re buying here, you need to be prepared, patient, and ready to act quickly.
The Bottom Line: Chicago gives you more options and a more accessible entry point for buyers. Essex Junction is a tough, competitive market for buyers, but a more affordable rental option—if you can find one.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
This is where personal preference truly dictates the winner.
Traffic & Commute
- Chicago: Infamous. The "L" (elevated train) is a lifesaver, but driving can be a nightmare. Commute times can easily hit 45-60 minutes for a 10-mile trip. Parking is expensive and scarce.
- Essex Junction: A dream. The average commute is under 20 minutes. Traffic jams are rare. You’re likely driving to work, school, or the grocery store with minimal hassle.
- Winner: Essex Junction, by a landslide.
Weather
- Chicago: Brutal. Winters are long, dark, and cold (21°F average in January). The wind is real, and the "Windy City" nickname is earned. Summers can be hot and humid. You need a high tolerance for seasonal extremes.
- Essex Junction: Four distinct seasons, but slightly milder winters (45°F average in January). It gets cold and snowy, but the average temperature is higher than Chicago's. Fall is spectacular, and summers are pleasant.
- Winner: Essex Junction for a more moderate climate, though both are challenging winters.
Crime & Safety
- Chicago: The stats are sobering. The violent crime rate is 819.0 per 100,000 people. This is a city-wide average; safety varies dramatically by neighborhood. Some areas are perfectly safe, while others have significant challenges. You must be aware and choose your location carefully.
- Essex Junction: Extremely safe. The violent crime rate is 173.3 per 100,000—less than a quarter of Chicago’s. It’s a community where people feel comfortable leaving doors unlocked.
- Winner: Essex Junction, unequivocally.
The Verdict: Who Wins Each Category?
After breaking down the data and the lifestyle, here are the definitive winners for different life stages.
| Category | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Winner for Families | Essex Junction | Safety, community, and outdoor access are top priorities for families. The lower crime rate (173.3/100k vs. 819.0/100k), excellent schools, and nature-centric lifestyle create a nurturing environment. The higher median income ($94,423) also helps. |
| Winner for Singles/Young Pros | Chicago | The career opportunities, social scene, and cultural offerings are unmatched. The energy, anonymity, and endless things to do are perfect for building a network and enjoying your 20s and 30s. |
| Winner for Retirees | Essex Junction | Peace, safety, and a slower pace are ideal for retirement. The mild(er) weather and beautiful scenery are a bonus. Lower daily stress (no traffic!) contributes to a higher quality of life. |
Final Pros & Cons Breakdown
Chicago: The Urban Powerhouse
PROS:
- Endless Career & Cultural Opportunities: A global hub for finance, tech, arts, and more.
- World-Class Food & Nightlife: From deep-dish to Michelin stars, you’ll never run out of things to eat and do.
- Excellent Public Transit: The "L" can get you across the city without a car.
- Diverse Neighborhoods: Find your perfect fit, from the historic North Side to the trendy West Loop.
- More Affordable Housing (vs. other major metros): Better value than NYC or SF.
CONS:
- High Crime Rate: Requires vigilance and careful neighborhood selection.
- Brutal Winters & Wind: Can be mentally and physically taxing.
- Traffic & Commutes: A daily source of frustration for many.
- Cost of Living: While better than coastal cities, it’s still high, especially for taxes and dining out.
- Sticker Shock: The initial move, parking fees, and city taxes add up.
Essex Junction: The Serene Sanctuary
PROS:
- Extremely Safe: One of the lowest violent crime rates you’ll find.
- Incredible Natural Beauty: Access to lakes, mountains, and hiking trails is unparalleled.
- Strong Sense of Community: Know your neighbors, shop local, and feel connected.
- Minimal Traffic & Stress: A peaceful, easy-going daily routine.
- Good Public Schools: The Essex Westford School District is highly rated.
CONS:
- Limited Job Market: Fewer corporate headquarters and tech giants. Remote work is common.
- High Home Prices: The median is $472,500 for a village, which is steep.
- Remote Location: Far from major airports and other urban centers. Travel can be inconvenient.
- Seasonal Isolation: Winters can be long and isolating, with fewer social events.
- High State Taxes: The progressive income tax can take a significant bite out of high earners.
The Final Word
The choice isn't about which city is "better"—it's about which city is better for you.
Choose Chicago if you prioritize opportunity, energy, and culture over peace and quiet. If you want to be in the center of the action, where every weekend brings a new adventure, and you don’t mind the hustle (and the hustle’s costs), the Windy City will deliver.
Choose Essex Junction if you prioritize safety, nature, and community over urban excitement. If your ideal day ends with a sunset over Lake Champlain, not a night out in a crowded bar, and you value a slower, more intentional pace of life, then this Vermont village is your perfect home.
Look inward. Ask yourself: do you want to conquer a city, or do you want to settle into a community? Your answer will point you to your winner.