2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Chicago, IL vs New Brunswick, NJ

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in New Brunswick older or younger than people in Chicago?
- The Median Age in New Brunswick is 11.4 years younger than in Chicago.

Are housing costs cheaper in New Brunswick or Chicago?
- New Brunswick housing costs are 23.0% more expensive than Chicago housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, New Brunswick or Chicago?
- The average commute for residents of New Brunswick is 8.5 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Chicago.

Things to do in Chicago?
Chicago, Illinois is an American icon. Located along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, it's a vibrant city with an energy like no other. It's renowned for its world-class museums and galleries, rich history and stunning architecture. With hundreds of parks and beaches to explore, amazing restaurants to sample, and a bustling nightlife scene - Chicago has something for everyone! It's the home of diverse cultures and international events, making it one of the most unique cities in the US.

Things to do in New Brunswick?
New Brunswick, New Jersey is an exciting city situated in the central part of the state. With its rich history, cultural offerings and abundance of recreational activities, New Brunswick has something for everyone to enjoy. The city boasts a number of popular attractions like the Zimmerli Art Museum and Rutgers Gardens as well as many delicious restaurants and lively entertainment venues. In addition to its vibrant culture, New Brunswick also offers a wide variety of educational opportunities ranging from small private colleges to major universities such as Rutgers University. Whether you’re looking for a place to live or visit, New Brunswick has something for everyone!

 Chicago, ILNew Brunswick, NJUnited States
 Population  Unlock55,671329,725,481
 Median Income$65,781  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock23.738.4
 Avg. Home Price$284,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time34.63  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Chicago    270 Reviews

I've lived in Chicago city and later moved to suburbs when family size increased. Absolutely love this city. This is the cleanest and most beautiful among the major  More

   |    Reply

Chicago is probably the best value in a major city that you can find and my personal favorite city. It will become increasingly important as climate change makes the  More

   |    Reply

I've live on north side and south side, UIC medical center. Don't move here go to the north side. No good amenities, if you get bored with one there is no other choices.  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Chicago

Reviews for New Brunswick    4 Reviews

As an undergrad at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, I have lived here for 4 years -- 2 inside the University dormitories on College Ave Campus and 2 in a rented house  More

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

Between the entitled drivers, Jersey manners, and new student drivers, nevermind insane bus drivers and trucks speeding on narrow streets, driving around here will  More

   |    Reply

It is sad to see the city that I was born in 1959 and lived until 1972 decline so. Not only is it overpriced, perhaps because of the university or it being a suburb for  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of New Brunswick


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.