From the Midwest to the South, moving to Nashville from Chicago will require an adjustment in culture, weather, and daily lifestyle. Yet, however different these two great cities may appear, they both offer the perks of big-city life and a great community. So, whether you decide to stay in Chicago or migrate South, you really can’t lose with this decision. Nevertheless, to aid your exploration, we outlined some of the key differences between these two places so that you know what to expect should you land in Nashville.
If you plan to move to Nashville from Chicago for a change of scenery and new growth opportunities, give AptAmigo a call to find the perfect place in this buzzing city. There’s no need to spend your precious time apartment hunting when you can let apartment experts do the hard work for you. Our team will help you relocate with zero stress.
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Lifestyle
On the shores of Lake Michigan, the beautiful skyline of Chicago rises into the clouds. This bustling city earned a reputation for its architectural styles, iconic skyscrapers, stellar food scene, long history, diversity, and brutal winters. Nashville, known neither for its architecture nor its winters, attracts creatives, who flock to this Southern haven for work opportunities, nature, and a food scene to match.
Quiet suburbs surround both Chicago and Nashville, and locals and tourists alike can easily escape into nature when needed. Plus, both cities contain plenty to do, so the change in urban lifestyle won’t feel drastic. When you want to let loose, you can find an amazing meal accompanied by live music at almost any Nashville establishment. And, don’t forget karaoke! Practically all nights in Nashville end in karaoke, so polish up those singing skills.
The biggest difference transplants to Nashville experience is the Southern temperatures, which, after surviving a few Chicago winters, will be a welcome change.
As Nashville grows, so does the diversity of career opportunities. With tech companies popping up right and left, the work opportunities outside of the music industry continue to expand rapidly. That said, many rising stars still migrate to Nashville to make it big.
Housing Situation
High-rise and mid-rise luxury apartments fill Chicago’s downtown neighborhoods. Most of them come with floor-to-ceiling windows, stellar views, and, on occasion, historic brick facades. Residents can live where they please because Chicago’s superior public transportation system provides a quick and easy commute.
On the other hand, Nashville melds city living with a small-town feel in the best way possible. You can make yourself at home in a luxury high-rise condominium, or just as easily find a 1920’s Tudor. However, finding a neighborhood that suits your weekday commute could pose different challenges than in Chicago. Nashville is fairly spread out and requires traveling by car, so if you work in the downtown area, a home in Downtown, Midtown, or Germantown will serve you best.
Temperature
Chicago winters can be brutal — cold and snowy, with temperatures dipping as low as -27°F. Longtime residents will tell you to prepare ahead of time in order to survive the dreaded season. Long, thick parkas and indoor activities will bide your time until warmer weather returns, and when it does, it’s worth the wait. Lakefront activities, outdoor concerts, festivals, and plenty of other activities fill up Chicago’s summer days.
In comparison, Nashville’s mild weather stays fairly pleasant year-round. While Nashville does see a decent amount of annual rainfall, showers usually fall hard and quick, and fortunately, don’t stick around for long. All of this rainfall results in beautiful springs, green summers, and stunning, must-visit waterfalls. However, the Southern humidity will feel brutal during 100-degree summers, so make sure you prepare for them both physically and mentally. Water sports, breathable clothing, and good AC are crucial.
Traffic
Owning a car in Chicago is optional and often unnecessary, but in Nashville, cars are the primary mode of transportation. Chicago locals benefit from convenient access to an efficient and widely used public transit system thanks to the Chicago Transit Authority, or CTA. This easy alternative to owning a vehicle, along with sparse (and expensive) parking options, makes owning a vehicle in Chicago non-essential for most residents.
However, in Nashville, the public transportation infrastructure never quite caught up with the growing population. Most popular neighborhoods sit about 15 minutes apart, so driving is generally the preferred way to get around. If the thought of owning a car doesn’t appeal to you, rideshares present an accessible and affordable option in Nashville, and public transportation does exist.
Job Market
In the bustling city of Chicago, the locals’ work ethic reflects its busy character. From Fortune 500 headquarters to tech startups, many businesses call Chicago home. While Nashville’s grind might feel slower in comparison, the entrepreneurial spirit still thrives in this growing city.
Musicians and rising stars have always flocked to Nashville in search of their “big break,” but many other career paths and opportunities await in Music City. As Nashville grows, large companies continue to open offices here, creating jobs in various industries. Start-ups and tech jobs have become increasingly common; however, the creative scene always flourishes in this artsy city with its tight-knit community of photographers, stylists, vintage dealers, sound techs, and so much more.
Advice for Moving to Nashville from Chicago
Even though each city possesses its own vibe and unique flair, a caring community, buzzing activities, and plenty of delicious food fill both Nashville and Chicago. Whether you work as a musician, software developer, or just want to figure out your next stage in life, Nashville will welcome you with open arms.
Before you make the big move, prepare yourself by reading our article on everything you need to know before moving to Nashville and check out a few of our favorite luxury apartment options. Calculate the cost of living as you determine your budget. Or, check out our full library of Nashville content.
Start Your Move to Nashville
If you plan on moving to Nashville from Chicago, start looking for your dream apartment with the help of AptAmigo. We will provide you with a personal assistant dedicated to your apartment hunt. Tell us your lifestyle and preferences, and we’ll put together a list of apartments that you’re guaranteed to love. Choose your favorites, and we’ll schedule a whole day of tours for you. If you have special requirements like a pet-friendly apartment or a unit with skyline views, we can help with that, too. Now, you’re probably wondering how much it costs. That’s the best part— it’s 100% free! Find out more about using apartment locators.
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* The original version of this article was first published on September 16, 2020.
Taylor Small is a New York transplant now residing in Nashville, TN, with a background in social media, public relations, and marketing. She freelances and runs her own interior plant design business, Oasis Design. On the weekends she can be found riding around in her 1971 Ford searching for the best antique mall or hiking with her dog, Oliver.
