đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Roswell and Chicago
Head-to-Head Analysis
Roswell vs Chicago
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Roswell | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $119,657 | $74,474 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.5% | 4.2% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $648,000 | $365,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $233 | $261 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,643 | $1,507 |
| Housing Cost Index | 110.9 | 110.7 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 99.8 | 103.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 400.7 | 819.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | — | 45.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 27 | 38 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Head-to-Head: Chicago vs. Roswell – Where Should You Plant Your Roots?
Alright, let’s cut through the noise. You’re staring down the barrel of a major life decision: the legendary, gritty, world-class metropolis of Chicago versus the sun-soaked, affluent, and surprisingly quiet Roswell, Georgia. This isn’t just about a zip code; it’s a fundamental lifestyle choice. Are you chasing the electric pulse of the city that never sleeps (but has a killer deep-dish pizza game), or are you looking for a slice of suburban serenity with a tech-driven economy and a high median income?
Buckle up. We’re diving deep into the data, the vibes, and the real-world trade-offs to help you decide. Spoiler alert: this is a battle of Urban Jungle vs. Suburban Sanctuary, and the winner depends entirely on what you value most.
The Vibe Check: Fast-Paced Metro vs. Laid-Back Lakeside Living
Chicago is a beast. It’s the third-largest city in the U.S., a global hub for finance, architecture, and culture. The vibe is intense, sophisticated, and relentlessly energetic. You’re trading backyard space for world-class museums, Michelin-starred dining, and a skyline that will literally take your breath away. It’s a city for people who want to feel the hum of the world around them. Think: late-night jazz clubs, strolls along the Lakefront Trail, and the thrill of the Cubs or Bears in a packed stadium. It’s a city for hustlers, creatives, and urban adventurers.
Roswell, Georgia is a different beast entirely. Located just north of Atlanta, it’s a quintessential "nice place to raise a family" town. The vibe is polished, green, and community-focused. It’s about well-manicured lawns, top-rated public schools, and a slower pace of life. You’re trading the symphony for local farmers' markets and the L-train for a quiet commute on highway 400. It’s a city for people who want a serene home base with easy access to Atlanta’s amenities (and airport) without the chaos. Think: weekends spent hiking the Chattahoochee River, family-friendly festivals, and a strong sense of local pride.
Who is it for?
- Chicago is for the young professional, the foodie, the theater buff, and the urbanite who thrives on diversity and constant stimulation.
- Roswell is for the established professional, the growing family, and the retiree seeking a safe, comfortable, and active community with a Southern charm.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Actually Go?
Let’s talk turkey. Cost of living is often the ultimate dealbreaker. On the surface, the numbers might surprise you.
Cost of Living Breakdown
| Category | Chicago | Roswell | The Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $74,474 | $119,657 | Roswell has a 61% higher median income. That’s not a small gap. |
| Median Home Price | $365,000 | $648,000 | Roswell homes cost 77% more than Chicago’s. Major sticker shock here. |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,507 | $1,643 | Roswell is slightly pricier, but the gap is minimal compared to home prices. |
| Housing Index | 110.7 | 110.9 | Essentially a tie. Both are slightly above the national average (100). |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power
This is where it gets interesting. If you earn $100,000 in Roswell, you’re making well above the median income. Your purchasing power feels strong. However, that income has to stretch to cover a $648,000 mortgage, which is a hefty burden. In Chicago, a $100,000 salary is also above the median, and while housing is cheaper, you’re paying for it in other ways: higher taxes (Illinois has a flat 4.95% state income tax, while Georgia has a progressive system from 1% to 5.75%), and the general expense of city life (parking, entertainment, etc.).
The Verdict on Money: Roswell gives you a higher salary potential, but Chicago offers more bang for your buck in terms of housing value. If you can secure a high-paying job in Roswell, you’ll feel wealthier. If you’re on a tighter budget, Chicago’s lower entry point for homeownership is a huge advantage.
The Housing Market: To Buy or To Rent?
Chicago:
The market is competitive but diverse. You can find a classic two-bedroom condo in a vibrant neighborhood like Logan Square for $350k, or a luxury high-rise in the Loop for millions. The Housing Index of 110.7 means it’s a seller’s market, but the sheer volume of listings offers options. Renting is a fantastic way to experience the city’s neighborhoods without commitment. The biggest hurdle? Property taxes in Cook County are notoriously high, which can add thousands to your annual costs.
Roswell:
Welcome to a seller’s market of epic proportions. With a Housing Index of 110.9 and a median home price of $648,000, competition is fierce. You’re not just buying a house; you’re buying into a top-tier school district and a coveted lifestyle. Expect bidding wars, limited inventory, and a process that moves fast. While renting is an option, it’s less common—most people move here to put down roots and buy. The property taxes are generally lower than Chicago’s, but the mortgage payments are significantly steeper.
The Deal: If you’re looking to buy your first home on a budget, Chicago’s lower median price is a massive advantage. If you’re ready for a family home in a premium school district and have the income to match, Roswell is your target—just be prepared for a competitive and expensive hunt.
The Dealbreakers: Commute, Climate, and Crime
This is where the cities diverge most sharply.
Traffic & Commute:
- Chicago: Public transit is king. The CTA (trains and buses) is extensive, and a monthly pass is $75. However, driving is a nightmare. The Kennedy and Dan Ryan Expressways are legendary for gridlock. Commute times can be brutal, but you can live car-free.
- Roswell: You need a car. Period. There is no meaningful public transit. The commute to Atlanta can be a grind (30-60 minutes each way on Highway 400), but within Roswell, driving is easy. The trade-off? No parking costs or city traffic stress.
Weather:
- Chicago: Winters are brutal. We’re talking an average low of 21°F in January, with heavy snow, biting winds off the lake, and gray skies for months. Summers are glorious but humid. The weather is a true four-season experience, with extremes.
- Roswell: A dream for those who hate the cold. Average winter low is a mild 52°F. Summers are hot and humid (often in the 90s°F), but it’s a trade most southern transplants accept. You get color, blooming flowers, and outdoor living for about 9 months of the year.
Crime & Safety:
Let’s be brutally honest. Crime is a complex issue, and statistics don’t tell the whole story, but they give us a baseline.
- Chicago: The violent crime rate is 819.0 per 100k. This is a reality of major urban centers. Crime is highly concentrated; many neighborhoods are perfectly safe, while others struggle. It requires street smarts and research.
- Roswell: The violent crime rate is 400.7 per 100k. That’s roughly half of Chicago’s rate, reflecting its status as a safer, suburban community. It’s consistently ranked as one of the safer cities in Georgia.
The Verdict on Dealbreakers:
- For the car-free commuter: Chicago wins.
- For the sunshine seeker: Roswell wins.
- For the safety-conscious: Roswell has the statistical edge.
The Final Verdict: Which City is Right for You?
After crunching the numbers and feeling the vibes, here’s the breakdown:
🏆 Winner for Families: Roswell
This isn’t even a contest. The combination of top-tier public schools, lower violent crime rates, affordable (relative to income) family-sized homes, and a community-centric, safe environment makes Roswell the clear choice for raising kids. The higher median income of $119,657 directly supports a higher quality of life for a family.
🏆 Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Chicago
If you’re young, career-focused, and crave social and cultural stimulation, Chicago is unmatched. The lower cost of entry for housing, the world-class nightlife, the dating scene, and the sheer variety of experiences are unbeatable. You can build a vibrant life here without needing a car or a $650k mortgage.
🏆 Winner for Retirees: Roswell
For retirees, Roswell offers a compelling package: mild winters, safe streets, a peaceful pace, and a strong community. While Chicago has incredible cultural amenities, the harsh winters and high-density living can be challenging. Roswell’s lower violent crime rate (400.7/100k vs. 819/100k) and manageable cost of living for those on fixed incomes (especially if they sell a home elsewhere) make it a winner for a comfortable retirement.
City-Specific Pros & Cons
Chicago Pros & Cons
- Pros:
- World-class culture, food, and nightlife.
- Extensive public transit (car-optional living).
- Diverse neighborhoods with unique characters.
- Lower median home price ($365,000).
- Major global economic hub.
- Cons:
- Harsh, long winters (21°F average low).
- High violent crime rate (819.0/100k).
- High taxes (city and state).
- Brutal traffic if you drive.
- High cost of parking and entertainment.
Roswell Pros & Cons
- Pros:
- High median income ($119,657).
- Excellent public schools.
- Safe, family-friendly community.
- Mild winters and year-round outdoor activity.
- Proximity to Atlanta’s airport and amenities.
- Cons:
- Very high median home price ($648,000).
- You must own a car; no public transit.
- Less cultural diversity and nightlife.
- Competitive, expensive housing market.
- Hot, humid summers.
The Bottom Line:
Choose Chicago if you value urban energy, cultural depth, and a more affordable entry into homeownership, and you’re willing to trade brutal winters for walkable neighborhoods.
Choose Roswell if you prioritize safety, top schools, a higher income, and a mild climate, and you have the budget for a premium suburban home.
Now, go with your gut—and your budget.