Chicago and Seattle are two major cities in the United States with distinct characteristics. Chicago, located in the Midwest, is known for its deep-dish pizza, skyscrapers, and rich history, while Seattle, located in the Pacific Northwest, is known for its coffee culture, tech industry, and scenic views of the Puget Sound.
Despite their differences, these cities share some similarities. Both are home to major sports teams, such as the Chicago Bears and Seattle Seahawks in football, and the Chicago Cubs and Seattle Mariners in baseball.
Additionally, both cities have a diverse population and offer a variety of cultural experiences, from museums and galleries to live music and theater performances. Whether you are a foodie, a sports fan, or an art enthusiast, there is something for everyone in Chicago and Seattle.
Overview of Chicago vs Seattle
Chicago and Seattle are two of the most famous cities in the United States. While both cities have their own unique charm, they also have many differences.
Chicago, also known as the “Windy City,” is located in the Midwest and is the third-largest city in the United States. It is known for its beautiful architecture, deep-dish pizza, and the Chicago Cubs baseball team. Seattle, on the other hand, is located in the Pacific Northwest and is known for its coffee culture, seafood, and the Space Needle.
When it comes to cost of living, Seattle is one of the most expensive cities in America, with a cost of living index of 172.3. In comparison, Chicago’s cost of living index is 106.5, which means it is 6.5 percent more expensive than an average town as a whole.
In terms of entertainment, both cities offer a variety of options. Seattle is home to Lumen Field, where the Seattle Seahawks football team plays. Chicago, on the other hand, is home to the Chicago Bears football team, and both cities have a lively music and nightlife scene.
When it comes to sports, both cities have passionate fans and successful teams. In a recent game between the Chicago Bears and the Seattle Seahawks, the Bears won with a final score of 27-11 on August 18, 2022, according to ESPN.
Overall, both Chicago and Seattle have their own unique qualities that make them great places to live or visit. Whether you prefer deep-dish pizza or seafood, both cities offer something for everyone.
Demographics
Chicago and Seattle have different demographic profiles. According to BestPlaces.net, Chicago is more densely populated than Seattle. Chicago has a population of 2.7 million people, while Seattle has a population of 744,955 people. The median age in Chicago is 37.8 years, which is 1.6 years younger than Seattle’s median age of 39.4 years.
In terms of race and ethnicity, Seattle has a higher percentage of white residents than Chicago. According to Versus.com, 67.1% of Seattle’s population is white, while only 32.7% of Chicago’s population is white. Chicago has a higher percentage of African American residents than Seattle, with 30.1% of the population being African American, compared to Seattle’s 7.1%.
When it comes to education, Seattle has a higher percentage of residents with a bachelor’s degree or higher. According to HomeCityLiving.com, 61.3% of Seattle residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher, while only 35.9% of Chicago residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher.
In terms of income, Seattle has a higher median household income than Chicago. According to NerdWallet.com, the median household income in Seattle is $93,481, while in Chicago it is $71,796. However, Chicago has a lower cost of living than Seattle, which means that the money goes further in Chicago.
Overall, Chicago and Seattle have different demographic profiles, with Chicago being more diverse in terms of race and ethnicity, and Seattle having a higher percentage of residents with a bachelor’s degree or higher and a higher median household income.
Education
When it comes to education, both Seattle and Chicago have their strengths and weaknesses. According to BestPlaces.net, Seattle has a higher percentage of residents with a bachelor’s degree or higher compared to Chicago. However, Chicago has more universities and colleges, including some of the top-ranked schools in the country.
Seattle is home to the University of Washington, which is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the nation. The city also has a strong K-12 education system, with a high school graduation rate of 89%. In addition, Seattle has a variety of private schools, including some of the best independent schools in the country.
Chicago, on the other hand, has a larger number of universities and colleges, including the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, and the University of Illinois at Chicago. The city also has a well-established K-12 education system, with a high school graduation rate of 78%. However, the city has struggled with funding and resources for its public schools in recent years.
Overall, both Seattle and Chicago offer a variety of educational opportunities for residents. While Seattle may have a higher percentage of residents with a bachelor’s degree or higher, Chicago has a larger number of universities and colleges, including some of the top-ranked schools in the country.
Housing Costs
When it comes to housing costs, there are some significant differences between Chicago and Seattle. According to NerdWallet, the median 2-bedroom apartment rent in Seattle is $2,970, which is 8% higher than in Chicago at $2,754. However, the median home price in Seattle is much higher than in Chicago, with a 3BR, 2BA home costing $921,344 in Seattle compared to $556,350 in Chicago.
If you’re looking to buy a home, you might find that Chicago is the more affordable option. According to BestPlaces.net, Chicago housing costs are 65.8% less expensive than Seattle housing costs. This is likely due to the fact that Seattle is a more expensive city overall, with a higher cost of living.
However, it’s worth noting that the age of homes in each city also varies. According to BestPlaces.net, the median age of a home in Seattle is 37.3% younger than in Chicago. This could impact the overall cost of housing, as newer homes tend to be more expensive.
Overall, if you’re looking to rent an apartment, you might find that Seattle is slightly more expensive than Chicago. However, if you’re looking to buy a home, Chicago is likely the more affordable option.
Cost of Living
When it comes to comparing the cost of living in Chicago and Seattle, there are a few factors to consider. According to NerdWallet’s cost of living calculator, to maintain your standard of living in Seattle, you’ll need a household income of $63,115, while in Chicago, the required income drops to $49,313.
The cost of living index is a measure of the average cost of basic necessities such as housing, food, and healthcare. In Chicago, the cost of living index is 106.5, which means it’s 6.5% more expensive than an average town as a whole. Seattle, on the other hand, is one of the most expensive cities in America, with a cost of living index of 172.3.
Housing costs are a significant factor in the cost of living comparison between the two cities. According to NerdWallet’s cost of living calculator, the median home price in Seattle is $921,344, while in Chicago, it is $556,350. For renters, the median 2-bedroom apartment rent in Seattle is $2,970, while in Chicago, it is $2,754.
Overall, while Seattle may have a higher cost of living index, Chicago is still a relatively expensive city to live in. However, it’s worth noting that salaries in Chicago are typically lower than those in Seattle, which can make a significant difference in terms of overall affordability.
Transportation
Chicago and Seattle both have a variety of transportation options for visitors and residents alike.
In Chicago, the public transportation system is known as the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and includes buses and trains. The CTA also offers a Ventra Card, which allows for easy payment and transfers between buses and trains. Taxis, ride-sharing services, and bike-sharing programs are also available in the city.
Seattle has a similar public transportation system known as King County Metro, which includes buses and trains. The ORCA Card is a popular option for payment and transfers. Taxis, ride-sharing services, and bike-sharing programs are also available in the city.
Commuting times in both cities can vary depending on the time of day and location. According to BestPlaces.net, the average commute time in Chicago is 7.2% longer than in Seattle. However, it’s important to note that commuting times can be significantly impacted by traffic and other factors.
Overall, both Chicago and Seattle offer a range of transportation options for visitors and residents. It’s important to research and plan ahead to determine the best mode of transportation for your needs and budget.
Food
Both Chicago and Seattle offer a diverse range of food options. Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches. Some popular places to try these dishes include Lou Malnati’s, Portillo’s, and Al’s Beef. In addition to these classics, Chicago also has a thriving food scene with a variety of international cuisines, such as Mexican, Chinese, and Indian.
Seattle is known for its seafood, particularly salmon and Dungeness crab. Some popular seafood restaurants in Seattle include Pike Place Chowder, The Crab Pot, and Ivar’s. Seattle also has a large coffee culture, with the original Starbucks located in Pike Place Market. Additionally, Seattle has a variety of international cuisines, such as Thai, Japanese, and Vietnamese.
Overall, both cities have a lot to offer in terms of food. Whether you’re in the mood for classic American dishes or international cuisine, you’ll be able to find something to satisfy your cravings.
Income
When it comes to income, there are some differences between Chicago and Seattle. According to BestPlaces.net, the household income in Seattle is higher than in Chicago, with a difference of 34%. However, the cost of living in Seattle is also higher, which can offset the higher income.
The cost of living calculator on NerdWallet shows that the cost of living in Seattle is 26% higher than in Chicago. This means that in order to maintain the same standard of living, you would need to earn a salary of $73,004 in Seattle compared to $63,115 in Chicago.
The same calculator also shows that housing costs in Seattle are 42% higher than in Chicago, with the median 2-bedroom apartment rent being $2,970 in Seattle compared to $2,754 in Chicago. This can impact disposable income, which is the amount of money left over after paying for necessary expenses.
It’s also important to consider the unemployment rates in each city. According to BestPlaces.net, the unemployment rate in Seattle is 4.8%, while in Chicago it’s 9.0%. This can impact job opportunities and earning potential.
Overall, while the household income in Seattle is higher than in Chicago, the higher cost of living and housing costs can offset this difference. It’s important to consider all factors, including disposable income and job opportunities, when comparing the two cities.
Entertainment
Both Chicago and Seattle have a lot to offer in terms of entertainment. Here are some of the top things to do in each city:
Chicago
- Museums: Chicago is home to some of the best museums in the country, including the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum, and the Museum of Science and Industry.
- Theater: The city has a thriving theater scene, with multiple Broadway shows and other productions playing at venues like the Chicago Theatre and the Cadillac Palace Theatre.
- Music: Chicago is known for its blues and jazz music, and there are plenty of venues to catch live performances, such as the Chicago Blues Festival and the Jazz Showcase.
- Sports: Chicago is home to several professional sports teams, including the Cubs, White Sox, Bears, and Bulls.
Seattle
- Parks: Seattle has many beautiful parks, including Discovery Park, Gas Works Park, and Kerry Park, which offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
- Music: Seattle is famous for its grunge music scene, which produced bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam. You can catch live music at venues like the Crocodile and the Showbox.
- Museums: Seattle has some great museums, such as the Museum of Pop Culture and the Seattle Art Museum, which showcase the city’s history and culture.
- Food and drink: Seattle is known for its coffee, craft beer, and seafood, and there are plenty of great restaurants and bars to try, such as Pike Place Market and the Space Needle.
Whether you’re interested in art, music, sports, or food, both Chicago and Seattle have something to offer.
Sports
Chicago Bears vs Seattle Seahawks
In Week 16 of the NFL, the Chicago Bears will take on the Seattle Seahawks. The Bears will be looking to Nick Foles to lead them to victory, while the Seahawks will be relying on their strong defense to shut down the Bears’ offense.
The spread for this game is currently in favor of the Seahawks, but the Bears have been known to surprise people in the past. It should be an exciting game to watch, and fans of both teams will be eagerly anticipating the outcome.
Kahleah Copper vs Jewell Loyd
In a recent WNBA game, the Chicago Sky’s Kahleah Copper faced off against the Seattle Storm’s Jewell Loyd. Copper had an impressive game, racking up several assists and blocks, while Loyd put up a strong performance with some key points for the Storm.
Both players are known for their athleticism and skill on the court, and it was a close match throughout. In the end, the Seattle Storm were able to come out on top, but Copper’s performance was certainly a highlight for the Sky.
Overall, both the Bears and the Sky have some talented players to watch out for, and fans of both teams will be eagerly anticipating their next games.
Comparison with San Francisco
San Francisco and Seattle are two of the most iconic cities in the United States, but how do they compare? Here are some key differences between the two cities:
- Population: San Francisco has a larger population than Seattle, with around 0.8 million inhabitants compared to Seattle’s 0.62 million.
- Cost of living: San Francisco is known for its high cost of living, with housing and transportation being particularly expensive. On the other hand, Seattle has a more affordable cost of living, with cheaper housing and public transport costs.
- Climate: San Francisco has a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and dry summers. In contrast, Seattle has a temperate oceanic climate, with cool, rainy winters and mild, dry summers.
- Culture: San Francisco is known for its diverse culture, with a vibrant arts scene, numerous festivals and events, and a thriving LGBTQ+ community. Seattle, on the other hand, is known for its laid-back, outdoorsy culture, with a strong coffee culture and a love of craft beer.
Overall, both San Francisco and Seattle are great cities to live in, each with their own unique charm and character.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city is bigger, Seattle or Chicago?
Chicago is bigger than Seattle in terms of population and land area. According to the United States Census Bureau, Chicago has a population of approximately 2.7 million people, while Seattle has a population of about 745,000 people. In terms of land area, Chicago covers about 234 square miles, while Seattle covers about 142 square miles.
Is Seattle warmer than Chicago?
Seattle has milder temperatures than Chicago throughout the year. The average high temperature in Seattle during the summer is around 75 degrees Fahrenheit, while in Chicago, it’s around 84 degrees Fahrenheit. During the winter, Seattle’s average high temperature is around 47 degrees Fahrenheit, while in Chicago, it’s around 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
What is the sales tax in Chicago compared to Seattle?
The sales tax rate in Chicago is higher than in Seattle. In Chicago, the sales tax rate is 10.25%, while in Seattle, it’s 10.1%. However, the exact sales tax rate can vary depending on the specific location within the city.
Which city has more sunny days, Chicago or Seattle?
Chicago has more sunny days than Seattle. On average, Chicago has around 189 sunny days per year, while Seattle has around 152 sunny days per year. However, Seattle has a more mild and consistent climate overall, with less extreme temperatures and fewer weather-related disruptions.
Is Seattle or San Francisco a better place to live?
Both Seattle and San Francisco are popular places to live, but which one is better depends on personal preferences. Seattle has a more laid-back and outdoorsy vibe, while San Francisco is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Seattle is also generally more affordable than San Francisco, but both cities have a high cost of living.
Which city has a higher crime rate, Seattle or Chicago?
Chicago has a higher crime rate than Seattle, particularly when it comes to violent crime. According to the latest data from the FBI, Chicago’s violent crime rate is around 1,000 incidents per 100,000 people, while Seattle’s is around 600 incidents per 100,000 people. However, it’s worth noting that crime rates can vary widely between different neighborhoods and areas within each city.
