Find Best San Francisco to Chicago

The cold shock is extreme - from never needing heat to -20°F wind chills. You'll buy entire winter wardrobe and learn about layering. Heating bills shock. However, experiencing real seasons offers novelty after SF's eternal spring. Many adapt and appreciate variety; others suffer seasonal depression. It's character building versus comfort.

Chicago costs 40-50% less than SF with dramatically more space for money. Your SF studio budget gets luxury high-rise with amenities. Illinois taxes partially offset California savings. The value is exceptional - world-class city at reasonable prices. Financial stress reduces significantly.

Chicago tech exists but pales compared to SF - fewer opportunities, lower salaries, less innovation. However, cost of living adjusted compensation often equals out. The scene is growing but will never match SF. It suits those prioritizing city living over career maximization. Finance and trading offer alternatives.

Chicago offers world-class culture - museums, architecture, theater, food - rivaling SF in quality if not innovation. The scene is more traditional, less cutting-edge. You'll miss SF's tech-forward everything for Midwest substance. Both are cultural powerhouses differently expressed.

The 'L' covers more ground than SF's limited MUNI/BART but with less frequency. It's comprehensive but aging. Winter impacts reliability. However, Chicago's grid layout makes navigation easier. Most find it superior for city coverage despite maintenance issues. It's functional versus frustrating.