2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Merced, CA vs Chicago, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Chicago older or younger than people in Merced?
- The Median Age in Chicago is 5.5 years older than in Merced.

Are housing costs cheaper in Chicago or Merced?
- Chicago housing costs are 23.8% less expensive than Merced housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Chicago or Merced?
- The average commute for residents of Chicago is 11.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Merced.

Things to do in Merced?
Merced, California is a mid-sized city located in Central Valley known for its proximity to Yosemite National Park or Lake Yosemite making it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation.

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.

 Merced, CAChicago, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock2,742,119329,725,481
 Median Income$52,305  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$373,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.56  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Merced    44 Reviews

Merced is totally slept on - you want a little bit of everything CA has to offer, at a fraction of the price of other CA cities? Merced is the place to go. The town  More

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Over 5 years ago

Good place to live. More affordable than most of california. The city is growing and there is alot of business and growth here. Moved from the Bay area years ago and  More

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Great place to live. Lots of progress and changes coming to the city. Great place to raise a family. UC Merced is expanding and businesses are investing. Downtown is  More

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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

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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

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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

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