2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Portage, MI vs Chicago, IL

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Chicago older or younger than people in Portage?
- The Median Age in Chicago is 1.9 years younger than in Portage.

Are housing costs cheaper in Chicago or Portage?
- Chicago housing costs are 12.7% more expensive than Portage housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Chicago or Portage?
- The average commute for residents of Chicago is 15.2 minutes longer than it is for residents of Portage.

Things to do in Portage?
Portage, MI is a peaceful community located in Kalamazoo County near Lake Michigan. Home to numerous parks and recreational areas including Celery Flats Historical Area and Portage Creek Bicentennial Park, Portage provides its residents with plenty of outdoor resources perfect for activities like disc golfing at Milham Park Golf Course or fishing on Pigeon River Country State Game Area. In addition, there are many restaurants, unique shops and other amenities that make living here so enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for rural serenity or just want easy access to nearby cities — Portage has something for everyone!

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.

 Portage, MIChicago, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock2,742,119329,725,481
 Median Income$68,755  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock35.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$252,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.43  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Portage    3 Reviews

I'm just writing because I think that the people who are in my opinion bashing Kalamazoo, really don't know anything about it. I have vacationed in much larger cities,  More

   |    Reply

Before I moved to Portage in 2007, I didn't have any real breathing problems. I had a minor case of hay fever. I moved here and I am stuck inside most of the summer  More

   |    Reply

Over 20 years ago

Portage is a nice palce to live and raise a family. I don't think it would be a good place for a single  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Portage

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.