Plymouth vs Chicago

Category / Metric	Plymouth	Chicago
Financial Overview
Median Income	$130,793	$74,474
Unemployment Rate	4%	4.2%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$495,000	$365,000
Price per SqFt	$203	$261
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$1,201	$1,507
Housing Cost Index	110.3	110.7
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	104.8	103.3
Gas Price (Gallon)	$2.67	$3.40
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	280.3	819.0
Bachelor's Degree+	—	45.7%
Air Quality (AQI)	30	38

Chicago vs. Plymouth: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown

So, you’re standing at a crossroads. One path leads to the Windy City—a sprawling, electric metropolis where skyscrapers scrape the clouds and the deep-dish pizza is practically a religion. The other path leads to Plymouth, Minnesota—a charming, affluent suburb that feels like a Hallmark movie set, complete with pristine parks and a tight-knit community vibe.

Choosing between them isn’t just about picking a place to live; it’s about picking a lifestyle. Are you craving the pulse of the city, or the peace of the suburbs? Do you want to rub shoulders with millions, or know your neighbors by name? Let’s cut through the noise and break down this showdown, data point by data point, to help you make the right call.

The Vibe Check: Metro vs. Metro-Adjacent

First, let’s talk about the soul of these places.

Chicago is the heavyweight champion of the Midwest. With a population of 2.66 million in the city proper (and over 9 million in the metro area), it’s a cultural, economic, and artistic powerhouse. This is a city that never sleeps—literally. You can catch a world-class Broadway show, dive into legendary blues clubs, explore top-tier museums, and eat at Michelin-starred restaurants, all within a few miles. The energy is palpable, the diversity is immense, and the options are endless. It’s a city for go-getters, creators, and anyone who thrives on being in the center of the action.

Plymouth, on the other hand, is the quintessential upscale suburb. With a population of 77,638, it’s a fraction of Chicago’s size. Think manicured lawns, excellent public schools, and family-friendly events like the Plymouth Summer Festival. It’s about 20 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, offering access to big-city amenities without the daily grind of urban living. The pace is slower, the community is tighter, and the vibe is decidedly more laid-back. It’s a place for those who prioritize safety, space, and a strong sense of community, but still want the option of a night out in a major city.

Who is it for?

• Chicago is for the urban adventurer, the young professional, the culture vulture, and anyone who believes "boredom" is a four-letter word.
• Plymouth is for families seeking top-tier schools, professionals who want a quiet home base, and those who value suburban serenity with a touch of luxury.

The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Stretch Further?

Let’s get real about the numbers. A $100,000 salary feels very different in these two cities. This is where the “sticker shock” often hits.

Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
Plymouth boasts a significantly higher median income—$130,793 compared to Chicago’s $74,474. This is a major advantage. However, you have to factor in the cost of living. While Minnesota has a progressive income tax (ranging from 5.35% to 9.85%), Illinois has a flat 4.95% state income tax. The real kicker? Both cities are in high-tax states for property and sales tax. Neither is a tax haven like Texas or Florida.

But let’s break down the day-to-day costs.

Cost of Living Breakdown

Category	Chicago	Plymouth	Winner for Budget
Median Home Price	$365,000	$495,000	Chicago
Rent (1BR)	$1,507	$1,201	Plymouth
Housing Index	110.7	110.3	Tie (Both above national avg)
Utilities	$150-$200	$120-$180	Plymouth (Slightly)
Groceries	5-10% above nat'l avg	3-7% above nat'l avg	Plymouth (Slightly)

Analysis:
This is a fascinating split. Plymouth is cheaper to rent, which is a huge plus for singles or young professionals not ready to buy. However, Chicago is cheaper to buy. A median home in Chicago is $130,000 less than in Plymouth. This is the classic city vs. suburb trade-off: you pay a premium for space and schools in the suburbs, while the city offers more affordable entry points into homeownership (though you often get less square footage and a condo/townhouse).

For a $100,000 salary, your money goes further in Plymouth for monthly rent, but you’d need a much larger down payment to buy a home there. In Chicago, your rent will eat a bigger chunk of your paycheck, but the path to owning a home is more accessible.

Verdict: It’s a draw, depending on your life stage.

• Renters: Plymouth wins. You get more salary and lower rent.
• Buyers: Chicago wins. The entry price is significantly lower.

The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent & Competition

Chicago: The market is competitive but offers variety. You can find a $250,000 condo in a vibrant neighborhood or a $500,000 single-family home in a quieter area. The inventory is larger, giving buyers more leverage. However, property taxes in Cook County are notoriously high, which can be a long-term financial drain.

Plymouth: This is a classic seller’s market. With high incomes and excellent schools, demand outstrips supply. The median home price of $495,000 is the floor, not the ceiling. You’re competing with other high-earning families for every good listing. It’s a tough market for first-time buyers, but a great one for existing homeowners looking to build equity.

The Commute Factor:
If you work in downtown Minneapolis, living in Plymouth is a dream—a 20-minute drive. If you work in downtown Chicago, living in the city proper saves you from a brutal commute. But if you live in a Chicago suburb (like Naperville or Oak Park), your commute could be 45+ minutes on a good day, and an hour-plus during rush hour. This is a critical consideration that often gets overlooked in the initial excitement.

The Dealbreakers: Weather, Safety, and Quality of Life

This is where personal preference trumps data.

Weather:
Both cities are cold. We’re talking serious winter. Chicago’s average low in January is around 21°F, while Plymouth hits 16°F. Both get significant snow. The difference? Chicago’s "wind chill" is a real beast, and the humidity in the summer can be oppressive. Plymouth, being slightly further north, has a bit more extreme winter cold but less brutal summer humidity. If you hate snow, neither is for you. If you can handle winter, both offer gorgeous summers and beautiful falls.

Crime & Safety:
Let’s be honest—the data doesn’t lie. This is the most significant differentiator.

• Chicago Violent Crime: 819.0 per 100,000 residents.
• Plymouth Violent Crime: 280.3 per 100,000 residents.

Plymouth is statistically far safer. This is the hallmark of an affluent suburb. Chicago’s crime rate is complex; it’s highly neighborhood-dependent. There are incredibly safe, family-friendly neighborhoods (like Lincoln Park, Lakeview) and areas with significant challenges. You cannot paint the whole city with the same brush, but the city-wide average is daunting. For families prioritizing safety above all else, Plymouth is the clear winner.

Lifestyle & Amenities:

• Chicago: Unbeatable. World-class dining, nightlife, sports (Bears, Bulls, Cubs, White Sox, Blackhawks), museums (The Art Institute, Field Museum), and festivals. The lakefront is a public treasure. You have everything at your doorstep.
• Plymouth: Excellent local parks (French Regional Park), good dining, and strong community events. But for major league sports, top-tier concerts, or exotic cuisine, you’re driving into Minneapolis. It’s close, but it’s not there.

The Final Verdict: Who Wins?

After weighing the data, the lifestyle, and the costs, here’s the final breakdown.

Winner for Families: Plymouth

Why: The trifecta of top-rated schools, low crime, and community-focused living is hard to beat. The higher median income ($130,793) means more disposable income for family activities. While the home price is steeper, you’re buying into a safe, stable environment with great outdoor spaces. The commute to Minneapolis is manageable, offering parents access to city jobs without the urban stress. For raising kids, Plymouth offers a safer, more controlled environment.

Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Chicago

Why: The lower median home price ($365,000) and the sheer volume of professional opportunities in a major metro area are game-changers. The vibrant social scene, endless networking events, and cultural amenities provide the perfect playground for building a career and a social life. Yes, the rent is higher, and the crime rate is a concern, but for young professionals in their 20s and 30s, the energy and opportunities of Chicago are unmatched. You can build your resume and your social circle simultaneously.

Winner for Retirees: Plymouth

Why: This is a tough call, but Plymouth edges it out for retirees seeking peace and safety. The lower crime rate is a significant comfort factor. While Chicago offers cultural activities, the harsh winters and navigating a large city can be challenging for older adults. Plymouth provides a quieter, more manageable pace with easy access to healthcare and amenities. The higher median income also suggests a community with more financial stability, which often translates to better municipal services.

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At a Glance: Pros & Cons

Chicago Pros:

• Unmatched Culture & Entertainment: World-class museums, theaters, sports, and dining.
• Professional Opportunities: A massive, diverse economy for nearly every industry.
• Lower Home Purchase Price: More accessible entry to the housing market.
• Public Transportation: The ‘L’ and bus system are extensive (and a lifesaver in traffic).
• Lakefront Access: 26 miles of public parks and beaches along Lake Michigan.

Chicago Cons:

• High Crime Rate: Requires careful neighborhood research and situational awareness.
• Brutal Winters: Heavy snow, wind chill, and gray skies for months.
• Traffic & Commutes: Can be notoriously bad, especially on expressways.
• High Taxes: Property and sales taxes are among the highest in the nation.
• Cost of Living: While home prices are lower, everyday expenses add up.

Plymouth Pros:

• Excellent Safety: Low violent crime rate is a major draw for families.
• Top-Tier Schools: Consistently high-ranking public school districts.
• High Median Income: Indicates a prosperous, stable community.
• Community Vibe: Family-friendly events, parks, and a strong sense of neighborhood.
• Manageable Commute: Easy access to Minneapolis jobs without the big-city chaos.

Plymouth Cons:

• Expensive Housing: High median home price makes buying a challenge.
• Limited "Big City" Feel: You’ll be driving to Minneapolis for major events.
• Colder Winters: Slightly more extreme winter temperatures than Chicago.
• Less Diversity: More homogeneous than a major metro area.
• Fewer Professional Networks: Smaller local job market compared to Chicago.

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The Bottom Line:

• Choose Chicago if you’re chasing career growth, crave cultural stimulation, and are willing to trade safety and space for opportunity and excitement. It’s a city that rewards ambition.
• Choose Plymouth if you prioritize safety, schools, and a strong community for your family, and you want the benefits of a high salary without the daily grind of a major city. It’s a city that rewards stability.

There’s no wrong answer here—just the right fit for your chapter of life. Now, go grab a deep-dish pizza or a hotdish, and think hard about what you truly want from home.