According to Time Out’s annual City Life Index, Chicago is once again the top city in the world. It’s hard to believe it as Chicagoans dig out from under 20” of snow, but over 15,000 respondents from around the world think so. Two years in a row, the Windy City has grabbed the top rank away from all major metropolitan areas from around the globe. The Index looked at 6 variables to reach its ranking.
1. Dining Options
Chicago is blessed with so many food options and ranked in this category only behind Tel Aviv. Ask any Chicagoan and they will agree with you because on average the Windy City dwellers dine out once a week and don’t mind waiting for a table for an hour.
2. Culture, Culture, Culture
The wealth of museums, concert halls and theaters make Chicago the mecca for cultural diversity. On average, Chicagoans go to a cultural venue once a month.
3. Warm and Friendly Residents
As the heart of the Midwest, Chicago is populated with the warmest and most friendly residents. Holding the door for you comes naturally for every Chicagoan as does thanking for anything you do for them.
4. Chicago is Inexpensive
As the third largest city in the US, and one of the biggest cities in the world, Chicago remains very affordable. Ranked only behind Philadelphia, it is still possible to own your own home, dine out or enjoy the cultural activities in Chicago without having to take a second mortgage on your home. Eat your heart out London—or Paris!
5. Chicagoans are Happy
While no Bhutan, Chicago ranks as one of the happiest people in the survey. More than 90% of respondents were happy to be living in this Metropolis—harsh winters notwithstanding.
6. Quality of Life
Chicagoans are content to be living here. They cite good public transportation and easily accessible amenities as some of the reasons. The “L” train does a great job taking away people’s frustration with driving. The city’s infrastructure makes for an easy place to get around. Try that in Los Angeles.