Chicago Ranks Highest in Resident Satisfaction
I can admit that my dear home Chicago isn’t perfect, but I still love it nonetheless. And I’m not alone. I’ve talked to former Chicagoans who have moved elsewhere but still miss the Windy City, and many tourists comment on the obvious love affair our residents have with their hometown. Sure, we may complain about the late buses, the outrageous taxes, and the insanity that is Lake Shore Drive, but deep down, we are quite fond of Sweet Home Chicago.
According to a survey of over 8,000 people in 14 cities worldwide, Chicagoans were the most satisfied with their city overall. The Windy City was at the top of the list in resident satisfaction, followed by Sydney, New York, Berlin, Los Angeles, and Paris.
That’s not to say we are fully enamored with our Midwestern metropolis. Urban occupants worldwide have a love/hate relationship with their homes. That conflict is found here as well; many of those surveyed had something to gripe about (traffic, parking, crime), but they immediately paired it with something they loved (diversity, culture, public transit, festivals).
With its location on the Great Lakes, socially diverse neighborhoods (and food!), and remarkable architecture, I do think that Chicago is one of the greatest places to live. But of course, I’m biased. What do you think?
(For the full Tribune article, click here.)
Photo credit: (c/o Wikipedia) J.Crocker, (c/o Flickr) moaksey, aynne
4 Comments
I too am originally from Chicago, have lived all over the world during the last 25 years and can tell you that no other place (other than Paris) beats the Windy City.
I agree, the pride in this city is very infectious and you can feel it amoungst others.
As much as I love to travel and visit other cities, it would take quite a bit to make me leave my Windy City permanently. I’ve even gotten some playful ribbing from friends about my Chicago loyalty.
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