Lamenting the Worst Aspects of Living in Chicago

When evaluating the ills of any city, it's often challenging to pinpoint a single element that stands out among the myriad of shortcomings. However, for me, the overwhelming negative aspect of living in Chicago is undoubtedly the people. The residents of this city, as I've experienced, possess a set of troubling traits that I find irksome. Chicagoans are noted for their arrogance, crudeness, rudeness, and overall demeanor that borders on aggression. These characteristics, along with a lack of integrity, are deeply ingrained, making this city a less-than-ideal place to call home.

Class Struggles and Education

While the working class can sometimes be seen as superior in their behavior and integrity, the breadth of the problem extends to all social classes. The educational systems, despite the oft-repeated claims of excellence from the locals, do not live up to the hype. The only university that holds any real merit is the University of Chicago, which distinguishes itself as a beacon of academic integrity in the cityscape. However, many other institutions, while priding themselves on high tuition fees, offer little in terms of educational value. They are, in essence, not worthy of comparison with prestigious institutions like Harvard.

Corruption and Exploitation

The rampant corruption in Chicago is another major issue. Infamous for its pervasive presence, this corruption permeates various levels of governance, from small village police to state governments. This level of corruption can be seen in the relentless imposition of taxes, such as property taxes, sales taxes, and many others. The citizens of this city have become accustomed to this reality, but as an outsider, it becomes increasingly difficult to appreciate. It's a testament to the systemic failures that allow such corruption to thrive.

Crude Environment and Everyday Life

Living in Chicago is a daily battle with the environment as well as the people. Days spent navigating the bustling city can be a nightmare. Traffic is so chaotic that it mirrors the aggressive behavior of its inhabitants. Every attempt to travel through the city can feel like a “Daytona 500 race,” with vehicles careening around corners at breakneck speeds. The rudeness displayed on the streets extends beyond mere driving to include interpersonal interactions, making it a place where one must remain guarded and alert. I've witnessed incidents where, while lying injured in a public area, no passerby offers assistance, reinforcing the notion that assistance is not readily available or expected.

A Deterrence Against Residency

Beyond the environment and the people, the cost of living is another significant deterrent. Cities like Chicago, despite their perceived value in terms of infrastructure and opportunities, come with a high price tag. Whether it's navigating the city's roads or dealing with its people, the quality of life is often overshadowed by the financial burden upon residents. The city's allure of being one of the 'best places to live' begins to diminish when one considers the realities of daily life.

In conclusion, while Chicago may hold moments of charm and excitement, the negatives far outweigh the positives for most residents. From the aggressive behavior of citizens to the exploitative nature of its institutions, living in Chicago is a continued challenge. If you're considering moves to this city, it's advisable to consider whether the short-term thrill of visiting can compensate for the long-term struggles of making it your home. For the sake of your well-being, it might be best to explore other options or limit your time there to the bare minimum.