[epbrown]

I recommend getting the Sunday editions of the Chicago Tribune and Sun-Times, give them a full read-through. Check the ads for clothes, furniture, food, read the real estate and metro sections. These will give you some idea of the cost of living here, what's going on in the city, and a sense of the culture.

I moved here from Kentucky nearly 20 years ago. Chicago is, imo, the best of the US large cities: cost of living isn't insane like LA, and it's not just-plain-insane New York. I personally can't see living in the 'burbs (just as well have stayed in Lexington), but friends say they're nice, especially if you've got kids. Taxes are lower, houses are cheaper.

I like the city, but most of it isn't car-friendly (I spent the morning in a back-alley wrenching on the 944, for instance - the garage space I rent to park in doesn't permit working on the cars there). I love my cars, but from 1987-2000 I did just fine walking, using CTA trains and yelling "Taxi!" to get around. Lots less trouble, lots cheaper.

Like Jay, I'm here if you want more info, and you might also try the regional board.

Emanuel