đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Georgetown and Chicago
Head-to-Head Analysis
Georgetown vs Chicago
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Georgetown | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $95,160 | $74,474 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.2% | 4.2% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $425,000 | $365,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $205 | $261 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,220 | $1,507 |
| Housing Cost Index | 126.4 | 110.7 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 91.9 | 103.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $2.35 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 446.5 | 819.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 43.1% | 45.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 35 | 38 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Chicago vs. Georgetown: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
You’re standing at a massive crossroads. On one side, you have Chicago—the Windy City, a concrete jungle of towering skyscrapers, deep-dish pizza, and a relentless, buzzing energy. On the other, you have Georgetown—the charming, historic gem of Texas, where the pace slows, the sun shines, and life feels a bit more... relaxed.
But which one is actually right for you?
Let me be straight with you: these two cities aren't even in the same league. Chicago is a major global metropolis; Georgetown is a booming suburban hub. But that’s exactly why this comparison matters. You’re likely weighing a vibrant urban core against a high-quality suburban lifestyle.
Let’s cut through the noise and see how they stack up.
The Vibe Check: Fast-Paced Metro vs. Laid-Back Texas Town
Chicago is a beast of a city. It’s the third-largest in the U.S., with a population of 2.66 million packed into a dense urban footprint. The vibe here is electric, sometimes chaotic, and deeply cultural. You have world-class museums, a food scene that will blow your mind, and summers that feel like a city-wide festival. It’s for the person who craves energy, diversity, and the feeling of being at the center of the action. If you need access to everything—from Fortune 500 headquarters to underground jazz clubs—this is your playground.
Georgetown, on the other hand, is the definition of a Texas suburb with a small-town heart. With a population of just 96,317, it feels intimate and manageable. The vibe is historic charm meets modern growth. Think red-brick storefronts on the Square, easy access to nature, and a community that’s growing fast but hasn’t lost its local feel. It’s for the person who wants a strong sense of community, a slower pace, and a life that revolves more around family, backyard barbecues, and weekend trips to Austin (which is just 30 minutes away).
Who it’s for:
- Chicago: Urban professionals, culture vultures, foodies, and anyone who thrives on anonymity and endless options.
- Georgetown: Young families, remote workers, and professionals who want a quieter home base with big-city amenities (Austin) within easy reach.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Feel Like More?
Let’s talk money. You might earn a higher salary in Chicago, but your dollars stretch further in Georgetown. This is the Purchasing Power battle.
First, the obvious: Texas has no state income tax, while Illinois has a flat 4.95% income tax. If you earn $100,000 in Chicago, you’re taking home roughly $95,050 before federal taxes. In Georgetown, you take home the full $100,000. That’s an automatic $4,950 advantage for Georgetown right off the bat.
Now, let’s break down the monthly costs.
Cost of Living Comparison Table
| Category | Chicago, IL | Georgetown, TX | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $74,474 | $95,160 | Georgetown |
| Median Home Price | $365,000 | $425,000 | Chicago |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,507 | $1,220 | Georgetown |
| Housing Index | 110.7 | 126.4 | Chicago |
| Violent Crime/100k | 819.0 | 446.5 | Georgetown |
| Weather (Avg. Temp) | 21.0°F (Winter) | 66.0°F (Avg.) | Georgetown |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
The data tells a fascinating story. Georgetown residents have a 27.8% higher median income than Chicagoans. Yet, Chicago’s median home price is actually $60,000 cheaper. Wait, doesn’t that sound backwards?
Here’s the catch: Georgetown’s Housing Index is significantly higher (126.4 vs. 110.7). This means, relative to the national average, housing in Georgetown is more expensive. While the raw home price is higher in Georgetown, the type of home you get for that price is likely larger and newer (Texas suburbs are built on space). In Chicago, $365,000 might get you a condo or a fixer-upper in a decent neighborhood, but it won’t be a spacious single-family home with a big yard.
For renters, Georgetown is the clear winner with rent that’s $287 cheaper per month—that’s over $3,400 saved annually.
The Verdict on Dollar Power: If you’re renting or have a modest income, Georgetown offers better immediate affordability. If you’re a high-earner looking to buy a larger family home, Georgetown’s higher income and tax-free status might still stretch further than you think. Chicago wins on raw home price, but you sacrifice space and likely face higher property taxes.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
Chicago: A Buyer’s Market with Caveats
The Chicago housing market is surprisingly accessible for a major city. With a median home price of $365,000, it’s more affordable than coastal metros. It’s currently a buyer’s market, meaning you have more negotiating power. However, competition is fierce for desirable properties in neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Lakeview, or the West Loop. Property taxes in Cook County are notoriously high, which can be a significant ongoing cost. Availability is decent, but you’re often choosing between a condo, a townhome, or a smaller single-family home.
Georgetown: A Competitive Seller’s Market
Georgetown is experiencing explosive growth, fueled by Austin’s tech boom. The median home price is $425,000, and the market is competitive. Inventory moves fast, and you might face bidding wars, especially for homes in the top-rated school districts. While you get more square footage for your money compared to Austin proper, the demand has driven prices up. Renting is a more viable short-term option here, but long-term, buying is the goal for most.
Housing Winner: For buyers seeking affordability and more options, Chicago has the edge. For buyers wanting space and newer construction, Georgetown is better, but be prepared for a tougher, more competitive search.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
This is where the cities diverge most dramatically.
Traffic & Commute:
- Chicago: Public transportation is legendary. The 'L' train and bus system can get you almost anywhere, making car ownership optional (and often a headache due to parking costs). Commute times can be long, but you can read a book on the train. Rush hour traffic is brutal, but you have alternatives.
- Georgetown: You will need a car. Period. There is no robust public transit system. Commutes are almost exclusively by car. While traffic is lighter than in Austin, it’s growing. The average commute is manageable, but you’re at the mercy of I-35 congestion if you work in Austin.
Weather:
- Chicago: Brutal winters are the stuff of legend. We’re talking 21°F average winter temps, heavy snow, and biting winds. Summers are glorious but can be humid. If you hate winter, Chicago is a dealbreaker.
- Georgetown: Sunshine and mild winters are the norm. The average temperature is 66°F. Summers are hot and humid (often 90°F+), but you get used to it. You’ll trade a brutal winter for a sweltering summer. No snow days, but you might get the occasional ice storm.
Crime & Safety:
- Chicago: The reputation is often exaggerated, but the data doesn’t lie. The violent crime rate is 819.0 per 100k—more than double Georgetown’s. Safety varies drastically by neighborhood. Some areas are incredibly safe and family-friendly, while others face serious challenges. You must do your neighborhood research.
- Georgetown: With a violent crime rate of 446.5 per 100k, Georgetown is significantly safer than Chicago, though not immune to crime. It’s a generally safe, family-oriented community where people feel comfortable letting their kids play outside.
Quality of Life Winner: For urbanites who thrive on walkability, public transit, and cultural amenities, Chicago wins. For families prioritizing safety, a car-centric lifestyle, and predictable weather, Georgetown is the clear choice.
The Final Verdict: Where Should You Move?
After weighing the data, the culture, and the practicalities, here’s my expert take.
🏆 Winner for Families: Georgetown
Why: The combination of significantly lower crime rates, top-tier public schools (a major draw for the area), and more space for your money makes Georgetown a haven for raising kids. The community feel, safety, and access to outdoor activities are huge pluses. While the housing market is competitive, the long-term value for a family is undeniable.
🏆 Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Chicago
Why: If you’re in your 20s or 30s and building your career, Chicago’s ecosystem is unmatched. The higher density of jobs (especially in finance, tech, and professional services), world-class nightlife and dining, and the walkable, public-transit-friendly neighborhoods offer a lifestyle that Georgetown simply can’t replicate. You’ll pay more in taxes, but the networking opportunities and sheer urban energy are worth it.
🏆 Winner for Retirees: Georgetown
Why: This one’s a slam dunk. No state income tax means your retirement savings go further. The mild weather eliminates the physical strain of harsh winters. The lower cost of living (especially for homeowners) and safer environment create a peaceful, stress-free retirement. You’re close enough to Austin for medical care and entertainment but don’t have to deal with the city’s chaos.
Final Pros & Cons Breakdown
Chicago Pros & Cons
âś… PROS
- World-Class Urban Amenities: Museums, theaters, sports, dining—top-tier.
- Walkability & Public Transit: A car is a choice, not a necessity.
- Cultural Diversity: One of the most diverse cities in America.
- Job Market: Massive and varied, especially for corporate careers.
- Affordable for a Major Metro: Lower home prices than NYC, SF, or LA.
❌ CONS
- Brutal Winters: The cold is real and lasts for months.
- High Crime (Neighborhood-Dependent): Requires careful research.
- High Taxes: State income tax and high property taxes.
- Traffic & Parking: Can be a nightmare if you drive.
- Cost of Living: High, especially for dining out and entertainment.
Georgetown Pros & Cons
âś… PROS
- No State Income Tax: Your paycheck goes further.
- Great Weather: Mild winters, plenty of sunshine.
- Safe & Family-Friendly: Low crime rates and strong community feel.
- Access to Austin: Big-city perks are a short drive away.
- Space & Value: More house and land for your money.
❌ CONS
- Car-Dependent: Public transit is virtually non-existent.
- Competitive Housing Market: High demand drives up prices and competition.
- Summer Heat: Can be oppressive and humid.
- Limited In-City Culture: Relies on Austin for major events and niche scenes.
- Property Taxes: Can be high, even without state income tax.
The Bottom Line: There’s no wrong choice—just the wrong choice for you. If your heart beats faster for the energy of a world-class city, Chicago is calling your name. If you dream of a quieter, safer life in the Texas sun with more financial breathing room, Georgetown is your spot. Choose wisely.