Nashville vs Chicago - Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Nashville, United States and Chicago, United States? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Nashville has a monthly cost of $5,050, which is 5.2% higher than Chicago's $4,800.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Nashville offers 100 Mbps, while Chicago provides 100 Mbps - making Chicago's connection 0.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Nashville is currently 11°C 🌤️, while Chicago is experiencing 2°C 🌨️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Nashville has a safety score of 70.0 , while Chicago scores 65.0 .
Overall
Nashville wins
Quality of Life
Chicago wins
Nashville is 5% better
Chicago is 10% better
Cost
Nashville wins
Nashville is 14% better
Climate
Nashville wins
Nashville is 13% better
Infrastructure
Chicago wins
Chicago is 7% better
Social
Nashville is 5% better
Nashville is 5% better
Chicago is 5% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Nashville | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $5,050 | $4,800 | +5.2% |
| Daily Average | $168 | $160 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Nashville | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $1,800.00 per month | $2,200.00 per month | -18.2% |
Daily Life
| Item | Nashville | 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 | Nashville | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Transport Pass | $70.00 per month | $105.00 per month | -33.3% |
| Taxi Start | $3.00 per trip | $3.50 per trip | -14.3% |
Utilities
| Item | Nashville | Chicago | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internet (60 Mbps+) | $60.00 per month | $70.00 per month | -14.3% |
| Mobile Plan | $50.00 per month | $60.00 per month | -16.7% |
Final Verdict: Nashville vs Chicago
Nashville ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 3.0% higher than Chicago overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $5,050 vs $4,800
- Daily Expenses: $168 vs $160
- Chicago is 5.2% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Chicago leads with 0% faster connection
- Public Transport: Chicago has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Nashville Wins In:
- Safety (5% better)
- Cost of Living (14% better)
- Air Quality (13% better)
- Nightlife (5% better)
- Culture (5% better)
Chicago Wins In:
- Healthcare (10% better)
- Internet Speed (7% better)
- Food Scene (5% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Nashville if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Safety. However, Chicago might be preferable if Safety is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.