The narrative of Chicago is often dominated by reports of crime and homelessness, potentially causing apprehension about visiting or living in the city. However, some residents argue that the city's appeal extends beyond such concerns. It's noted that the decrease in Chicago's population over recent years is often due to high taxes rather than crime or typical urban challenges.
Caroline Tanner, writing for The Points Guy, shares personal insights into why Chicago is a desirable destination. She mentions, "Chicago always represented 'the big city' to me," highlighting a sentiment from her childhood in St. Louis. She fulfilled her aspiration to reside on Michigan Avenue, a dream she had vowed to achieve in 1998.
Chicago's accessibility is underscored by its robust public transport systems. Tanner emphasizes that "even with that many people, you don't need a car to get around." Two main systems service the area: the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and Metra, connecting downtown to the suburbs.