Category / Metric	Roswell	Chicago
Financial Overview
Median Income	$50,294	$74,474
Unemployment Rate	4.2%	4.2%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$217,000	$365,000
Price per SqFt	$140	$261
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$935	$1,507
Housing Cost Index	107.5	110.7
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	91.6	103.3
Gas Price (Gallon)	$3.40	$3.40
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	778.3	819.0
Bachelor's Degree+	19.6%	45.7%
Air Quality (AQI)	35	38

Chicago vs. Roswell: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown

So, you're trying to decide between the Windy City and the Alien Capital of the World. This isn't just a choice between two zip codes; it's a choice between two entirely different worlds. One is a global metropolis pulsating with energy, deep-dish pizza, and four distinct seasons (including a brutal winter). The other is a quiet, sun-drenched Georgia town known for its quirky museums, slower pace, and a whole lot of charm.

Choosing is tough, but that’s why we’re here. We’re going to break this down with hard data, real talk, and a clear-eyed look at what life actually feels like in each place. Forget the brochure version—this is the unfiltered guide to help you decide where to plant your roots.

Let's dive in.

The Vibe Check: Big City Buzz vs. Small Town Soul

This is the fundamental fork in the road.

Chicago is a world-class city that just happens to be in the Midwest. It’s the kind of place where you can get a Michelin-star meal, catch a Broadway-caliber show, and then walk along a stunning lakefront—all in one day. The energy is relentless. It’s a city for hustlers, culture vultures, foodies, and anyone who thrives on anonymity and endless options. The population is massive, 2.66 million, and the pace is fast. You're not just living here; you're navigating a complex, beautiful, and sometimes overwhelming urban ecosystem. It’s for the person who wants every possible career path, social scene, and cultural experience at their fingertips, but is willing to trade yard space and a quiet night for it.

Roswell, on the other hand, is the epitome of Southern charm. With a population of just 47,823, it’s more like a large town than a city. The vibe is laid-back, community-oriented, and family-friendly. Life revolves around the historic town square, local festivals, and beautiful parks like the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. It’s the kind of place where you know your neighbors, the coffee shop barista remembers your order, and the biggest traffic jam is caused by a slow-moving tractor. This is for the person who values a slower pace, a strong sense of community, and the peace that comes with open spaces and less hustle. It’s ideal for families seeking a safe environment and retirees looking for a gentle, sunny haven.

Who is each city for?

Chicago is for the ambitious professional, the artist, the food lover, and the urban explorer who wants the world at their doorstep.
Roswell is for the family-oriented, the nature lover, the budget-conscious, and anyone seeking a tight-knit community and a less stressful daily rhythm.

The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Go Furthest?

Let's talk brass tacks. Where you live dictates your lifestyle, but your paycheck is the engine that drives it. This is about purchasing power—how much house, food, and life you can actually buy with your salary.

Cost of Living & Salary Wars

We’ll start with the hard numbers. Here’s a snapshot of key monthly expenses (based on national averages and local indices).

Expense Category	Chicago, IL	Roswell, GA	Winner (Bang for Buck)
Rent (1BR Apt)	$1,507	$935	Roswell (38% cheaper)
Utilities (Monthly)	~$180	~$165	Roswell (Slightly Cheaper)
Groceries	~10% above nat'l avg	~3% above nat'l avg	Roswell
Median Home Price	$365,000	$217,000	Roswell (40% cheaper)
Housing Index	110.7	107.5	Roswell (Slightly Better)

The Income Gap & The Tax Twist:
The median income in Chicago is $74,474. In Roswell, it's $50,294. At first glance, Chicago looks richer. But let’s apply the "sticker shock" test.

Here's the game-changer: Taxes. Illinois has a steep state income tax of 4.95%. Georgia, however, has a graduated tax system that tops out at 5.75%, but crucially, Georgia does not tax Social Security benefits. More importantly, Roswell’s significantly lower cost of living means your dollar stretches much, much further.

Let’s run a scenario: If you earn the median salary in each city, your take-home pay in Chicago is roughly $56,000 after taxes. In Roswell, it’s closer to $39,000. But look at housing:

In Chicago, a median home of $365,000 would be a 6.5x multiple of your take-home pay.
In Roswell, a median home of $217,000 is a 5.6x multiple of your take-home pay.

The real kicker? If you earn a Chicago-level salary (say, $100k) but live in Roswell, your purchasing power skyrockets. You'd have the same big-city income in a town where housing costs are 40% lower. That’s not just a discount; that’s a lifestyle upgrade. You could afford a much larger home, a new car, and still have a hefty amount left for savings and travel.

Insight: While Chicago offers higher raw earning potential for top-tier careers, Roswell offers superior purchasing power for the average household. The lower cost of living, combined with a favorable tax structure for retirees, makes your money work significantly harder in Georgia.

The Housing Market: Buy, Rent, or Fight?

Chicago: The Competitive Grind

Chicago’s housing market is a tale of two cities. You can find a sleek high-rise condo in the Gold Coast or a classic 3-flat in a neighborhood like Logan Square. The median home price of $365,000 is deceptive; in desirable areas, you’ll easily find listings in the $500k–$1M+ range. Rent is high ($1,507 for a 1BR), and competition is fierce. It’s a seller’s market in the city center and trendy neighborhoods. You’ll need a pre-approval letter and a willingness to move fast. The upside? You’re buying into a stable, historically appreciating asset class in a major global city. The downside? You get less space for your money and face higher property taxes.

Roswell: The Accessible Dream

With a median home price of $217,000, Roswell is in a different league entirely. It’s a buyer’s market compared to major metros. You get more square footage, a yard, and often upgraded amenities for the price of a Chicago studio. Rent is exceptionally reasonable ($935), making it easy for newcomers to test the waters. The market is less frenetic, allowing for more thoughtful decision-making. For young families or first-time buyers, Roswell represents a tangible path to homeownership that feels out of reach in places like Chicago. The trade-off? Appreciation rates may be slower, and the resale market is smaller.

The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

This is where personal preference reigns supreme.

Traffic & Commute

Chicago: Commuting is an art form. The 'L' train system is extensive, but driving is a nightmare. The average commute is 35-45 minutes, and traffic on the Dan Ryan or Kennedy Expressways can be soul-crushing. Parking is expensive and scarce. You must be prepared for public transit or high parking costs.
Roswell: Commuting is a breeze. Most trips are under 20 minutes. The biggest issue is occasional congestion on GA-400, but it’s nothing like Chicago. You can drive anywhere easily, and parking is almost always free. This is a massive quality-of-life win for those who hate traffic.

Weather: The Four Seasons vs. The Southern Sun

Chicago: Be ready for real winters. The data point of 21.0°F is just an average; January lows can plummet to 0°F or below with heavy snow and biting winds. Summers are hot and humid, but beautiful. You get four distinct seasons, but winter is a serious commitment (think heavy coats, snow boots, and shoveling).
Roswell: The data shows an average of 55.0°F, but that’s misleading. Summers are long, hot, and very humid (often 90°F+ with high humidity). Winters are mild, rarely dipping below freezing. You’ll experience little to no snow. If you hate cold and love the sun, Roswell is paradise. If you hate humidity and love cozy winters, Chicago is your spot.

Crime & Safety: An Honest Look

This is a sensitive topic, and the data tells a story.

Metric	Chicago	Roswell	Verdict
Violent Crime (per 100k)	819.0	778.3	Roswell (Statistically Safer)

Important Context: Chicago’s crime rate is highly neighborhood-dependent. Areas like the Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, and the Loop are relatively safe, while other neighborhoods struggle with violence. Roswell, as a smaller, suburban town, has a more consistently low crime rate across the board. Statistically, Roswell is safer. However, Chicago’s crime is concentrated, and many residents in safe neighborhoods feel perfectly secure. This is a critical "dealbreaker" factor for families, especially with children.

The Final Verdict: Who Should Pack Their Bags?

After crunching the numbers and living vicariously in both places, here’s the clear-eyed conclusion.

Winner for Families: Roswell

Why? The combination of lower crime rates, affordable housing with yards, excellent public schools (a hallmark of the area), and a slower, community-focused pace is ideal for raising children. The access to nature, parks, and family-friendly activities is a huge plus. You get more house, more safety, and less stress for your money.

Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: Chicago

Why? Career opportunities are unparalleled. The social scene is vibrant and endless. You can network in the Loop, explore world-class museums, and find a niche in any subculture. The energy is infectious. While you’ll pay more and deal with more stress, the trade-off is access to experiences and opportunities that a town like Roswell simply can’t match. It’s the place to build your career and your identity.

Winner for Retirees: Roswell

Why? The financial math is undeniable. Georgia does not tax Social Security benefits, and the overall cost of living is much lower. The weather is gentle, the pace is relaxed, and the community is welcoming. You can enjoy beautiful parks, a charming downtown, and a low-stress environment. Chicago’s harsh winters and high taxes are a significant burden on a fixed income. For a comfortable, sunny retirement, Roswell is the clear choice.

At a Glance: Pros & Cons

Chicago, IL

Pros:

World-Class Culture: Unbeatable museums, theater, food, and architecture.
Career Hub: Vast job market across multiple industries.
Public Transit: Extensive system reduces the need for a car.
Lakefront Beauty: Stunning views and parks along Lake Michigan.
Global City Feel: You are at the center of the action.

Cons:

High Cost of Living: Especially for housing and parking.
Brutal Winters: Long, cold, and snowy.
Traffic & Commutes: Can be long and frustrating.
Higher Taxes: State income tax and steep property taxes.
Neighborhood Variability: Safety and vibe change drastically block by block.

Roswell, GA