Being born and raised in the City of Chicago was in many ways a privilege which I have never taken for granted. Living in one of the most popular cities in the world surely has benefits, opportunities and amenities that often at times a small town or suburb lacks.
After seeing a good deal of my friends who recently graduated from college, make the move from their suburban or small town homes to the cities for job opportunities or a change in lifestyle, it really became clear that living in a large city is something I recommend to young and hungry recent graduates.
Most jobs tend to develop in large cities because that is where the large corporations, infrastructures, agencies and manufacturers began. New business also thrive in large cities due to the amount of customers or clients they can acquire.
A larger salary may be a requirement if you’re looking to move to a larger city since the cost of living for things such as an apartment and taxes are much higher. So be prepared for that price tag and how much you are willing to give up for the possible rewards and outcomes.
Living in a large city also means you are exposed to every type of walk of life. Cities are filled with different communities with their own unique cultures and lifestyles. To be able to travel to China Town to Boys Town to Gold Coast areas by hopping on the bus, train or car is incredible!
One of the best aspects though is that living in the city exposes you to a surplus of international cuisine where you can pretend you are eating your way around the world within the span of a day. Shopping is the same way too!
By passing homeless people on the streets, watching millionaire socialites celebrate a night out, being friends with single-mom working two jobs, living next door to the middle class family with three kids, etc. you are enriching your way of thinking and becoming more tolerant and worldly.
Your views may soon begin to change once opening yourself up to the drastically different values, lifestyles, mindsets, beliefs, etc that are living, working and breathing around you. Such a wonderful benefit of city living and to become a better person as a whole.
The amount of museums, festivals, concerts, monuments, site-seeing activities, local farmer markets, gardens, beaches, art fairs and sporting events within the walls of the city will keep you occupied for years and years. Take advantage of every mode of transportation the city has to offer in order to get to those places and other free city services that may interest you.
If you are financially able and ready to make the move to a large city then I definitely recommend it. Especially for young people right out of college, living in a large city can be eye-opening and hopefully spur your success. If you already live in a fairly large city then make sure you appreciate all that it has to offer and expose yourself to some areas or opportunities you may be avoiding.