London vs Chicago - Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between London, Canada and Chicago, United States? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
London has a monthly cost of $3,650, which is 24.0% lower than Chicago's $4,800.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, London offers 100 Mbps, while Chicago provides 100 Mbps - making Chicago's connection 0.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in London is currently 5°C 🌤️, while Chicago is experiencing 6°C 🌧️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
London has a safety score of 75.0 , while Chicago scores 65.0 .
Overall
Quality of Life
London wins
London is 10% better
Chicago is 5% better
Cost
London wins
London is 8% better
Climate
London wins
London is 8% better
Infrastructure
Chicago wins
Chicago is 7% better
Social
Chicago wins
Chicago is 15% better
Chicago is 5% better
Chicago is 15% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | London | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $3,650 | $4,800 | -24.0% |
| Daily Average | $122 | $160 | per day |
Housing
| Item | London | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $950.00 per month | $2,200.00 per month | -56.8% |
Daily Life
| Item | London | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $4.50 per cup | $5.00 per cup | -10.0% |
| Beer | $6.00 per pint | $7.00 per pint | -14.3% |
| Meal (Inexpensive) | $15.00 per meal | $15.00 per meal | 0.0% |
Transportation
| Item | London | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Transport Pass | $100.00 per month | $105.00 per month | -4.8% |
| Taxi Start | $3.50 per trip | $3.50 per trip | 0.0% |
Utilities
| Item | London | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internet (60 Mbps+) | $70.00 per month | $70.00 per month | 0.0% |
| Mobile Plan | $50.00 per month | $60.00 per month | -16.7% |
Final Verdict: London vs Chicago
Chicago ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 2.0% higher than London overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $3,650 vs $4,800
- Daily Expenses: $122 vs $160
- London is 24.0% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Chicago leads with 0% faster connection
- Public Transport: Chicago has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
London Wins In:
- Safety (10% better)
- Cost of Living (8% better)
- Air Quality (8% better)
Chicago Wins In:
- Healthcare (5% better)
- Internet Speed (7% better)
- Nightlife (15% better)
- Culture (5% better)
- Food Scene (15% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Chicago if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Healthcare. However, London might be preferable if Healthcare is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.