2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Northampton, MA vs Chicago, IL

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Chicago older or younger than people in Northampton?
- The Median Age in Chicago is 5.9 years younger than in Northampton.

Are housing costs cheaper in Chicago or Northampton?
- Chicago housing costs are 29.4% less expensive than Northampton housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Chicago or Northampton?
- The average commute for residents of Chicago is 13.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Northampton.

Things to do in Northampton?
Northampton, MA lies on the banks of the Connecticut River on beautiful Paradise Pond—known locally as “The Valley”—and provides access to hiking trails through Mount Tom State Reservation or kayaking down the river’s rapids in downtown Northampton State Park .

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.

 Northampton, MAChicago, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock2,742,119329,725,481
 Median Income$72,687  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$402,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.55  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Northampton    6 Reviews

I was born in Northampton in the 1960"s and have lived other places but always came back to live here. My two children were born here too. What draws be back to  More

   |    Reply

The greater Northampton, MA area is generally a pretty good place to live, if you're interested in Western MA or southern New England in general. MA is more affordable  More

   |    Reply

Northampton is a very progressive, diverse, liberal small city where you will find so much to do in just the downtown area alone. Music, shopping, restaurants, bars,  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Northampton

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


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.