A major metropolis in the middle of America’s heartland, Chicago is where Midwestern charm meets sophisticated city life. Close to destinations all around North America, conveniently located in the middle of the U.S., Chicago is a competitive and accessible city, ideal for young professionals from around the world. Here are a few of our favorite reasons to live in Chicago.
1. It’s strategically located for travel.
Living in big coastal cities like New York City and Los Angeles can make travel to other U.S. destinations costly and time-consuming. If you’re based out of Chicago, no North American destination is that far away. Thanks to Chicago’s international airport, flights to around the world are also easy to score.
2. Professional opportunities.
Chicago is one of the world’s most important business centers with a highly diverse economy. From marketing professionals to entrepreneurs, art and design majors to journalism students, there are a number of incredible opportunities in Chicago for students and young professionals with a variety of backgrounds. This robust job market with a number of competitive industries makes it an ideal terrain for a career-boosting professional internship.
3. The art.
Chicago is a vibrant hub for art lovers, home to world-renowned museums such as the Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the National Museum of Mexican Art, and the Smart Museum of Art. These iconic institutions showcase some of the best art collections in the world, offering visitors a chance to explore classic masterpieces, contemporary works, and diverse cultural exhibits. Whether you're passionate about fine art, modern installations, or global artistic heritage, Chicago’s thriving art scene has something for everyone.
4. Good food.
Chicago has a number of iconic food traditions, like the delicious deep dish Chicago pizza, which make living in this city a foodie’s delight. Tasting a well-made Chicago pan pizza is life-altering while a classic Chicago hot dog, “dragged through the garden”, has a number of tasty toppings that will keep you coming back for more. Moreover, the world’s biggest outdoor food festival open to the public, Taste of Chicago, is also based in Chi-town.
5. The museums.
Apart from Chicago’s fabulous art museums, there are many other interesting places to expand your horizons in the city. The Chicago History Museum is a great place to learn about the city’s development and history, with many permanent and temporary exhibits. In Hyde Park, the Museum of Science and Industry is a wonderful place to spend a Saturday afternoon. Also notable are the Field Museum and the
DuSable Museum of African American History.
6. The ball games.
If you’re looking for a “take me out to the ball game” moment, Chicago is a great place to be, jam-packed with top-notch sports infrastructure. Watch a Cubs game at the historic Wrigley Field, the second-oldest baseball stadium in the United States. If you’re a football fan, catch the Bears play at Soldier Field. For basketball, you can see the Bulls play at United Center Arena.
7. The locals.
Chicago offers a unique blend of diverse communities and Midwestern hospitality, creating a welcoming and enriching living experience. Unlike other major cities, Chicago locals are known for their warmth and friendliness, making it easier to connect and build a sense of community. The city combines urban sophistication with a down-to-earth charm, offering the best of both worlds. Even during the long Chicago winters, the vibrant culture, strong community spirit, and exciting city life make it a fantastic place to call home.
8. It’s a large international city.
Chicago is a vibrant, multicultural city known for its ethnic diversity and rich cultural heritage. With large Black and Latino communities, as well as a dynamic mix of immigrants and travelers from around the world, the city offers a truly global atmosphere. From diverse neighborhoods to international cuisine and cultural festivals, Chicago’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, making it a welcoming and inclusive place for residents and visitors alike.
9. Outdoor fun.
Living in Chicago means having easy access to green spaces and outdoor recreation, with 552 parks spread throughout the city. Thanks to its prime location along Lake Michigan, residents can enjoy 15 miles of scenic beaches, numerous bike paths, and popular attractions like Navy Pier, perfect for an afternoon stroll. Whether you're looking for lakefront views, outdoor activities, or vibrant public spaces, Chicago offers endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors year-round.
10. There’s never a dull moment.
Chicago is a premier destination for world-class entertainment, offering an exciting mix of cinemas, theaters, live music venues, and dance clubs. No matter your interests, there’s always something to do and somewhere to go. The Chicago Loop is especially known for its vibrant nightlife, featuring iconic theaters, rooftop bars, and energetic clubs that make it one of the city's most dynamic areas. Whether you're into Broadway shows, live concerts, or late-night dancing, Chicago’s entertainment scene has something for everyone.
11. Its incredible history.
Chicago boasts a rich and fascinating history, evolving from Native American land into one of the most dynamic cities in the U.S. Over the past 200 years, it has witnessed transformative events such as the Great Chicago Fire, the World’s Fair, and the Prohibition era, famously tied to Al Capone. From its architectural rebirth to its role in shaping American culture, Chicago’s history is filled with stories of resilience, innovation, and growth. Whether you're exploring historic landmarks or visiting world-class museums, there’s always something to learn about Chicago’s incredible past.
12. The architecture.
Chicago has a reputation for its incredible skyscrapers and historic buildings. Structures like the Chicago Avenue Pumping Station, Marina City, the John Hancock building and the Buckingham Fountain make this city special.
Although we no longer offer internships in Chicago, we think you’ll love interning in New York! As a global hub for business, finance, media, and the arts, New York provides unparalleled professional opportunities. Plus, with a quick 2.5-hour flight to Chicago, you can easily spend weekends exploring the Windy City’s iconic landmarks, deep-dish pizza, and vibrant culture. Experience the best of both cities while gaining valuable international work experience in one of the world’s most exciting destinations!
