📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Layton and Chicago
Head-to-Head Analysis
Layton vs Chicago
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Layton | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $99,866 | $74,474 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.6% | 4.2% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $519,950 | $365,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $211 | $261 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,283 | $1,507 |
| Housing Cost Index | 107.0 | 110.7 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 93.0 | 103.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 233.0 | 819.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | — | 45.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 86 | 38 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Chicago vs. Layton: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
Let's cut to the chase. You're trying to choose between two American cities that could not be more different. Chicago is the Windy City—a sprawling, iconic metropolis on the shores of Lake Michigan, known for deep-dish pizza, brutal winters, and world-class culture. Layton, Utah, is a rapidly growing suburb nestled against the Wasatch Mountains, offering a quiet, family-focused lifestyle with a surprising economic punch.
Choosing between them isn't just about geography; it's about choosing a way of life. Are you a hustle-and-bustle urbanite or a mountain-view suburbanite? Let's break it down, data-point by data-point, to help you decide where to plant your roots.
The Vibe Check: Culture & Lifestyle
Chicago is a city of neighborhoods and relentless energy. It’s a global hub for finance, architecture, and the arts. The vibe is fast-paced, diverse, and unapologetically urban. You'll find world-class museums, a legendary food scene, and a public transit system that, while aging, gets you almost anywhere. It's for the person who craves excitement, anonymity, and the feeling of being at the center of the action. The city's character is forged by its Great Lakes location, its industrial history, and its resilient, Midwestern spirit.
Layton is the embodiment of modern suburban life, with a distinct Utah flavor. The culture is heavily influenced by the outdoor lifestyle and the predominant religious community, which translates into a strong emphasis on family, community events, and safety. The pace is slower, the streets are wider, and the mountains are a constant, breathtaking backdrop. It’s for the person who prioritizes a quiet home life, easy access to hiking and skiing, and a tight-knit community feel. The vibe is clean, orderly, and family-first.
Verdict: This is a pure lifestyle choice. Chicago wins for urbanites seeking culture and constant stimulation. Layton wins for those seeking a peaceful, family-oriented suburban existence with unparalleled outdoor access.
The Dollar Power: Cost of Living & Salary
At first glance, the numbers can be deceiving. Let's get granular with the cost of living.
Cost of Living Breakdown
| Category | Chicago | Layton | Winner (Bang for Buck) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $365,000 | $519,950 | Chicago |
| Rent (1-BR) | $1,507 | $1,283 | Layton |
| Housing Index | 110.7 | 107.0 | Layton (Slightly) |
| Median Income | $74,474 | $99,866 | Layton |
The Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
The headline here is the massive income gap. A household in Layton earns, on average, $25,392 more per year than a household in Chicago. That’s a game-changer.
Let's run a scenario. If you earn $100,000 in Layton, your purchasing power is significantly higher than in Chicago. In Layton, that income is slightly above the median, giving you solid buying power. In Chicago, $100,000 is well above the median income ($74,474) and would afford you a very comfortable lifestyle, but you'll feel the pinch more in taxes and housing if you're aiming for a trendy neighborhood.
The Tax Factor:
Utah has a flat state income tax of 4.65%. Illinois has a graduated state income tax, with a top rate of 4.95%. While the rates are close, Chicago also imposes a hefty 10.25% sales tax on most goods and services—the highest in the nation. Layton's sales tax is a more standard 6.1% (combined state and local). This means your day-to-day spending in Chicago takes a bigger hit.
Verdict: Layton is the clear winner on pure financial metrics. The higher median income, combined with lower sales tax and more affordable rent, provides a much stronger financial foundation for most families. Chicago offers more housing affordability if you're buying, but the overall financial burden is heavier.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
Chicago:
The housing market is a tale of two cities. You can find a classic, historic condo in a vibrant neighborhood for $365,000, or you can spend $1.5M+ on a luxury high-rise with lake views. The market is highly segmented. For buyers, it's a BUYER'S MARKET in many areas, with inventory available and room to negotiate. For renters, competition is fierce in popular neighborhoods, but the average rent of $1,507 is relatively reasonable for a major metro. However, property taxes in Cook County are notoriously high, which can be a dealbreaker for homeowners.
Layton:
The housing market is hot. With a median home price of $519,950, you're paying a premium for the Utah lifestyle, lower crime, and newer construction. The market is firmly a SELLER'S MARKET. Homes sell quickly, often over asking price, and inventory is tight. Renting is more affordable than buying ($1,283 for a 1-BR), but the rental market is also competitive due to high demand. The housing index (107.0) is slightly lower than Chicago's, suggesting a marginally better balance between income and housing costs, but the sticker shock on purchase prices is real.
Verdict: Chicago wins for buyers seeking more housing options and negotiating power. Layton wins for renters looking for slightly lower monthly costs, but both cities present challenges for finding an affordable home in a desirable area.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute
Chicago's traffic is legendary for a reason. The commute can be grueling, but the city's extensive public transit system (the "L" and buses) is a major asset for those who want to avoid driving. Average commute time is around 35 minutes.
Layton is a car-dependent city. While traffic is minimal compared to Chicago, you will drive everywhere. The commute to Salt Lake City is straightforward via I-15, typically taking 30-45 minutes. There's no viable public transit alternative.
Weather
This is a massive differentiator.
- Chicago: Winters are brutal. The data point of 21.0°F is the average January low, but with Lake Michigan winds, the wind chill can plunge to -30°F. Summers are hot and humid, often hitting 90°F. You get all four seasons, but the winters are a true test of endurance.
- Layton: Winters are cold but manageable, with an average low of 36.0°F. Snowfall is significant, but the dry climate makes it less oppressive than Chicago's damp cold. Summers are dry and hot (90°F+), but the low humidity makes it far more comfortable. The mountain backdrop provides stunning scenery year-round.
Crime & Safety
The data is stark and must be addressed honestly.
- Chicago: Violent crime rate is 819.0 per 100,000. This is a serious concern. Crime is not uniform; it's heavily concentrated in specific neighborhoods. Many areas (like Lincoln Park, Lake View, the Loop) are very safe, but you must be highly aware of your surroundings and do your research.
- Layton: Violent crime rate is 233.0 per 100,000. This is significantly lower than the national average and drastically lower than Chicago. The city consistently ranks as one of the safest places to live in Utah.
Verdict: Layton is the overwhelming winner for safety and weather (if you prefer dry, milder winters). Chicago offers a true four-season experience and a transit system, but at the cost of harsh winters and higher crime perception.
The Final Verdict: Who Wins Where?
After crunching the numbers and living the lifestyles, here’s the final breakdown.
Winner for Families: Layton
Why: The combination of high median income ($99,866), low violent crime (233.0/100k), excellent schools, and a community built around family values is hard to beat. The outdoor activities are a built-in bonus for kids. While the home price is high, the financial foundation is stronger.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Chicago
Why: The energy, the dating scene, the networking opportunities, and the cultural depth are unparalleled. You can find a more affordable starter apartment ($1,507) and immerse yourself in a world of possibilities. The higher crime rate is a calculated risk for many in this demographic seeking an urban adventure.
Winner for Retirees: Layton
Why: Safety is the top priority for retirees, and Layton’s crime rate is a fraction of Chicago’s. The cost of living, while high for Utah, is manageable with a fixed income, especially with no state income tax on Social Security benefits (Utah partially exempts them). The dry climate is easier on the body than Chicago's humid summers and brutal winters. Chicago's cultural amenities are tempting, but the safety and climate of Layton are more conducive to a relaxed retirement.
Pros & Cons: At a Glance
Chicago: The Urban Powerhouse
PROS:
- World-Class Culture: Unmatched museums, theater, architecture, and food scene.
- Public Transit: One of the best systems in the U.S. (a major plus for urban living).
- Economic Hub: Vast job opportunities across diverse industries.
- Housing Variety: From historic walk-ups to luxury high-rises.
- Four Seasons: True seasonal change (if you like that).
CONS:
- High Crime: Statistically one of the most dangerous large cities in the U.S.
- Brutal Winters: Long, cold, windy, and snowy.
- High Taxes: Especially the 10.25% sales tax.
- Traffic & Commutes: Can be soul-crushing without transit.
- Cost of Living: While rent is okay, overall expenses add up.
Layton: The Suburban Sanctuary
PROS:
- Extremely Safe: One of the safest cities in the nation.
- Higher Income: Median household income is $25k+ higher than Chicago.
- Outdoor Paradise: Unbeatable access to mountains, hiking, and skiing.
- Family-Friendly: Community focus, good schools, clean environment.
- Manageable Weather: No extreme humidity; snow is dry and manageable.
CONS:
- Car-Dependent: You must drive everywhere; no real public transit.
- High Housing Costs: Median home price is $519,950—a steep entry point.
- Limited Diversity: Less cultural and ethnic diversity than a major metro.
- Slower Pace: Can feel quiet or isolated if you crave constant activity.
- Limited Job Market: Heavily reliant on Salt Lake City for many professional careers.
The Bottom Line: This isn't about which city is objectively better. It's about which city is better for you. Ask yourself: Do you value cultural immersion and urban energy over safety and financial stability? Your answer to that question will point you to your winner.
Choose Chicago if: Your career demands a major metro, you thrive on diversity and culture, and you can handle the winters and the risks.
Choose Layton if: Your priority is a safe, clean, family-oriented community with a strong financial runway and a backyard that opens directly to the mountains.
Choose wisely. Both paths have their rewards.