📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Fairmont and Chicago
Head-to-Head Analysis
Fairmont vs Chicago
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Fairmont | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $60,791 | $74,474 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.4% | 4.2% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $187,500 | $365,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $108 | $261 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $696 | $1,507 |
| Housing Cost Index | 100.0 | 110.7 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 85.3 | 103.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 315.4 | 819.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 31.1% | 45.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 24 | 38 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Chicago vs. Fairmont: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
So, you're standing at a crossroads. On one side, you have the Windy City—a sprawling, iconic metropolis of 2.6 million souls. On the other, you have Fairmont—a quiet, riverside town of 18,000 in the heart of the Midwest. This isn't just a choice between two zip codes; it's a choice between two entirely different lifestyles. Are you craving the relentless energy of a city that never truly sleeps, or are you seeking the peace of a place where you can actually hear the birds? Let's break it down, head-to-head, with no sugar-coating.
The Vibe Check: Big City Buzz vs. Small-Town Soul
Chicago is the heavyweight champion of the Midwest. It’s a city of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality. You can grab a world-class deep-dish pizza in River North, explore the vibrant street art in Pilsen, or catch a blues show in a smoky club in Lincoln Park. The culture is rich, diverse, and unapologetically ambitious. The pace is fast; the energy is palpable. It’s for the go-getters, the culture vultures, and anyone who thrives on the buzz of a big city. If you want anonymity and endless options, Chicago is your playground.
Fairmont, on the other hand, is the quintessential American small town. Located in southern Minnesota, it’s the kind of place where neighbors know each other’s names and the local café is the social hub of the day. Life moves at a slower, more deliberate pace. The vibe is family-oriented, community-focused, and deeply rooted in the heartland's values. It’s for those who prioritize quiet, safety, and a strong sense of belonging over constant stimulation. If you’re looking to put down roots and escape the urban rat race, Fairmont offers a serene sanctuary.
Who is it for?
- Chicago: The young professional, the artist, the foodie, the ambitious career-chaser who wants everything at their doorstep.
- Fairmont: The young family seeking space and safety, the remote worker craving a peaceful home base, or the retiree looking for a tight-knit community.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Go Further?
This is where the rubber meets the road. A $100,000 salary doesn't mean the same thing everywhere. Let's talk purchasing power.
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power
While Chicago's median income is higher ($74,474 vs. $60,791), the cost of living is significantly steeper. The key is the purchasing power—what your paycheck actually buys. In Fairmont, your dollar stretches much further. You can own a home for nearly half the price of Chicago's median. This is the "bang for your buck" factor that makes small towns financially attractive. There's no state income tax in Illinois, but the high property and sales taxes can be a bit of a gut punch. In Minnesota, you'll face state income tax, but the lower housing costs can offset it.
Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Chicago (IL) | Fairmont (MN) | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR) | $1,507 | $696 | Fairmont |
| Median Home Price | $365,000 | $187,500 | Fairmont |
| Housing Index | 110.7 (10% above nat'l avg) | 100.0 (Nat'l avg) | Fairmont |
| Groceries | ~10-15% higher than nat'l avg | At or slightly below nat'l avg | Fairmont |
| Utilities | Comparable to nat'l avg | Comparable to nat'l avg | Tie |
The Verdict: For pure cost savings and financial breathing room, Fairmont wins hands down. The difference in housing costs alone is staggering. In Chicago, you're paying a premium for location and amenities. In Fairmont, you're paying for space and affordability.
The Housing Market: Buy, Rent, or Get Out of the Way?
Buying a Home:
- Chicago: The market is competitive. A median home price of $365,000 gets you into the market, but in desirable neighborhoods, you'll be fighting bidding wars. It's a Seller's Market in prime areas, with low inventory driving up prices. You're buying into a vibrant, but expensive, ecosystem.
- Fairmont: The market is far more accessible. A median price of $187,500 is a dream for first-time buyers. Inventory is generally better, and competition is lower. You can get a lot more house and land for your money. It's a more balanced market, leaning slightly toward buyer-friendly.
Renting:
- Chicago: Rent is a major expense, eating up a large portion of your income. The $1,507 for a 1-bedroom is just an average; it can skyrocket in trendy areas. Renting is often a necessity unless you have significant savings.
- Fairmont: Rent is incredibly affordable at $696 for a 1-bedroom. This makes it an excellent option for those saving for a down payment or who prefer the flexibility of renting.
The Verdict: For aspiring homeowners, Fairmont is the clear winner. The barrier to entry is dramatically lower, and you get more square footage for your investment. Chicago is for those who see home ownership as a long-term investment in a dynamic city, not just a place to live.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life Metrics
This is where personal preference truly dictates the outcome.
Traffic & Commute:
- Chicago: A beast. The "L" train is a lifesaver, but driving is often a nightmare of congestion. Commute times can easily be 45-60+ minutes for a relatively short distance. Public transit is excellent, but it’s crowded and not always reliable.
- Fairmont: Almost non-existent. You can get across town in 5-10 minutes. The biggest stress is waiting for a train to pass. If you drive, you'll almost always find parking. Commute times are negligible.
Weather:
- Chicago: Brutal winters. The average temp in the data is 21.0°F, but that doesn't capture the wind chill, which can make it feel like -15°F. Summers are hot and humid. You need a robust wardrobe and a high tolerance for seasonal affective disorder.
- Fairmont: Also has harsh winters, but slightly milder on average (45.0°F). Summers are generally pleasant and less humid than Chicago. The weather is typical of the Upper Midwest—four distinct seasons, with a long, cold winter.
Crime & Safety:
- Chicago: This is a major factor. The violent crime rate is 819.0 per 100k. While this is highly concentrated in specific neighborhoods, it’s a city-wide concern. You must be vigilant about where you live and travel.
- Fairmont: The violent crime rate is 315.4 per 100k, significantly lower than Chicago and closer to the national average. It’s a place where people feel safe letting their kids play outside and leaving their doors unlocked (though caution is always advised).
The Verdict: For safety and ease of commute, Fairmont wins. For weather, it's a toss-up (both are tough), but Chicago's wind and humidity add an extra layer of challenge.
The Final Verdict: Which City Should You Choose?
After weighing the data and the vibes, here’s your cheat sheet.
Winner for Families: Fairmont
Why? The combination of affordable housing ($187,500 median home), top-tier safety, and a community-focused environment is unbeatable for raising kids. You get space, a backyard, and the peace of mind that comes with a lower crime rate. The slower pace is ideal for family life.
Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: Chicago
Why? The career opportunities, cultural scene, and nightlife are unmatched. You can climb the corporate ladder, date a diverse pool of people, and never run out of new restaurants to try. The higher cost is the price of admission to an exciting, dynamic chapter of life.
Winner for Retirees: Fairmont
Why? A stable, quiet community with a lower cost of living is a retiree's dream. Your savings and retirement income will go much further. The strong sense of community combats isolation, and the slower pace is perfect for enjoying your golden years.
Pros & Cons: At a Glance
Chicago Pros & Cons
PROS:
- Endless Entertainment: World-class museums, theaters, sports, and restaurants.
- Career Opportunities: A massive, diverse job market.
- Public Transit: The "L" and buses can get you almost anywhere (though not without delays).
- Diversity & Culture: A true melting pot of people, food, and traditions.
CONS:
- High Cost of Living: Especially housing and taxes.
- Traffic & Commute: A major daily stressor.
- High Crime Rate: Requires careful neighborhood research and street smarts.
- Extreme Weather: Harsh, windy winters and humid summers.
Fairmont Pros & Cons
PROS:
- Extremely Affordable: Low housing costs and rent stretch your income.
- Safe & Family-Friendly: Low crime rate and a strong community feel.
- Short Commutes: Stress-free travel within town.
- Peace & Quiet: Escape from the noise and chaos of big cities.
CONS:
- Limited Job Market: Fewer career opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Fewer Amenities: Limited shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
- Isolation: Can feel remote, with larger cities hours away.
- Slower Pace: Can be boring for those who crave constant stimulation.
The Bottom Line
This isn't a choice between a good and a bad city—it's a choice between two different versions of the American dream.
Choose Chicago if you value excitement, opportunity, and the energy of a world-class city, and you're willing to pay a premium (in both dollars and stress) for it.
Choose Fairmont if you value affordability, safety, and a tight-knit community, and you're willing to trade big-city amenities for a quieter, more sustainable lifestyle.
Your decision boils down to one question: What do you want your daily life to feel like? The answer to that will point you to the right city.