Thinking about working remotely in Chicago? Smart move! This article dishes out everything you need to know about living and working in the Windy City. Chicago’s been working hard to create a remote-work-friendly vibe, and honestly, it’s paying off. It’s a huge city, so the opportunities and activities? Endless.
We’ll dive into the best places to hang your hat, the coolest things to see and do, and our fave cafes and coworking spots. Plus, we’ll tackle those burning questions about remote life in Chicago.
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Is Chicago a good place to work remotely?
Chicago? Totally awesome for remote work. Seriously, the opportunities are everywhere. And it’s not just the killer architecture. There’s so much to do. Digital nomads are all over Chicago for the food scene, art scene, awesome bars, and that gorgeous lakefront.
Best Areas to Stay in Chicago for Digital Nomads
Chicago’s big, with tons of neighborhoods. Here’s the lowdown on the best places to work remotely. Whether you’re into lively or laid-back, Chicago’s got you covered. We’ve got iconic spots, arty districts, and neighborhoods near the lake.
- River North:
- Vibe: Think contemporary.
- Why it’s great for nomads: Coffee shops galore and coworking spaces.
- Where to work:
- The WeWork River North: A stylish coworking space with a focus on community and collaboration.
- Intelligentsia Coffee: A cozy cafe with great coffee and plenty of workspace.
- Wicker Park/Bucktown:
- Vibe: Hipster haven.
- Why it’s great for nomads: Affordable and a strong sense of community.
- Where to work:
- The Hatchery: A community-focused coworking space.
- Stan’s Donuts: A classic Chicago spot with great donuts and decent Wi-Fi.
- Lincoln Park:
- Vibe: Relaxed and family-friendly.
- Why it’s great for nomads: Close to the lake and great for outdoor activities.
- Where to work:
- Novel Coworking: Upscale coworking with private offices and shared spaces.
- Philz Coffee: A chill spot to grab a coffee and get some work done.
- Logan Square:
- Vibe: Up-and-coming and trendy.
- Why it’s great for nomads: Affordable and good public transport.
- Where to work:
- Workbox: A coworking space with a focus on design and innovation.
- Gaslight Coffee Roasters: A local favorite with a great atmosphere.
Cost of Living in Chicago
Chicago’s…well, it’s not the cheapest. But lots of nomads think it’s worth it for what you get.
Here’s a rough idea of costs:
- Accommodation: A 1-bedroom in the city? Around $2,000-$2,500. Outside the city? $1,500-$2,000.
- Dining: Eating out will set you back about $20-$30 a meal.
- Drinks: Beer’s around $7-$9. Coffee? $5-$7.
- Transportation: Public transport is about $2.50 a ride.
Finding a Place in Chicago
Start with short-term. Airbnb, hotels—that kind of thing. While you hunt for something longer-term. Craigslist? Sure, but be careful out there.
Chicago Fun
- Hit up Millennium Park: The Bean! Crown Fountain! You know the drill.
- Museum hop: Art Institute, Field Museum…all the big hitters.
- Catch a show: Chicago’s theater scene? Amazing.
- Cheer on the teams: Cubs, Sox…who you got?
- Lakefront stroll: Gorgeous views, great for a walk or bike ride.
- Food, glorious food: Deep dish, hot dogs…Chicago eats are the best.
LGBTQ+ in Chicago?
Chicago is super LGBTQ+ friendly. Tons of bars, clubs, and a great community.
Taxes in Illinois?
If you’re a US citizen or resident, you’ll probably owe Illinois income tax if you’re working remotely here for a while.
Ready for a remote job in Chicago? Go for it!
