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A Girl's Guide to Moving to Chicago
Moving to Chicago? That's so exciting! You will love it here! You can use this checklist to help you plan your move to the big city.
Put together a monthly budget
rent
utitlies
food
living expenese
car (if you bring one to the city)
additional bills or debt
Explore a few of Chicago's most popular neighborhoods (at least three)
South Loop/Printers Row
River North/Gold Coast/Streeterville
Old Town
Lincoln Park
Lake
Wicker Park
Logan Square
West Loop
Make a list of pros and cons about each neighborhoods explored and what neighborhood amenities are a must.
grocery store
close to public transportation
restaurants, bars, and coffee shops nearby
nightlife
theatre and movie theaters
neighborhood vibe
close to downtown
quiet or more lively
Narrow your choice down to two neighborhoods and plan a day in each one.
have coffee in a coffee shop
walk around the streets
eat brunch, lunch, or dinner
building ameneties
Make a list of what you would like to your apartment to include
high rise
three-flat
mid-rise
dishwasher
in-unit laundry
doorman
Find a realtor to help with your apartment search
give your neighborhood and apartment "wish list" and neighborhoods you like to your realtor
Find your apartment
ask what is required to move in to the apartment
Figure out your work commute options
bus
train
bike
drive or take an Uber or Lyft
Once you move in, further explore your neighborhood and also start exploring the city. Remember to have fun! You are now living in one of the best cities in the world!
For more about moving to Chicago, read my guide https://girlsguidechicago.com/girls-guide-moving-chicago/
This creates a private checklist in your account.