Chicago

[Yuja]

Looking for advice on Chicago which is a potential move for us next year! We've been in expat locations before such as Singapore and Dubai, but nowhere like this. DC will be 12 and 10 but if we go they will join the British International School so would not join the US system for education. We never planned to move with them at this age and I think the eldest will be a little resistant at first but it might be that we need to go.

Anyone got advice on cost of living, what it's like there for teens and tweens, general life in this part of the USA? Need for cars? Schools fees would be paid for.

Thank you !

Im sure someone more knowledgeable will be along. (I was interested in Frank Lloyd Wright)
My memory of Chicago is fantastic. I loved my time there,
There are loads of activities, great beaches, nice people,
Some people say its better than NY
also Canada just the other side if the lake !!! (Toronto)
Traffic heavy but theres always the EL

Thanks @Mix56 I have to admit I'm quite excited about the prospect, great to hear you enjoyed it. but a bit nervous about moving my DC at this age

I have visited the British School in Chicago. It has great facilities and the staff I met were lovely. I don’t know Chicago well enough to give any other advice, except that it gets very cold and O’Hare airport is not very nice.

My sister taught in the school and had great things to say about it. I visited a few times,it’s an amazing city,some prefer it to New York. Very harsh winters though so be prepared!

I moved to Chicago from uk about 4 years ago and ve found it good value for money (property wise) compared to other big US cities, relatively well located (ny only abt 2 hrs flight) and a big enough city to offer you all what you would need.

on the flip side, the infrastructure is a bit outdated but if you dont ve to commute to downtown, its not a big deal.

if you ve any specific questions, feel free to ask

Following! we’re looking at doing the same. Our DC is 11.

It's definitely a great city.

Would your move be permanent or temporary? I ask because of your school preference. If you think you'll be in Chicago long term, you might like to look at local school options. There are highly selective city high schools that rank among the best in the country.

There's lots to do for families and kids - arts, sports, etc. You can certainly get around without a car, but a car would be highly desirable and practical all the same.

If you're entertaining the prospect, what sort of salary and relocation package has your employer offered? Will your family have health insurance? Does the employer offer enough annual vacation to enable you to make a meaningful trip back home annually? Where exactly is the workplace, and have you researched neighbourhoods?