San Diego and Chicago are two of the most popular cities in the United States. Both cities have a lot to offer residents and visitors alike, but they also have some key differences. One of the most common questions people ask is, “Which city is bigger?”
Is San Diego Bigger than Chicago?
Yes, when it comes to land area, San Diego is bigger than Chicago. San Diego has a land area of 325.88 square miles, while Chicago has a land area of 227.73 square miles. That makes San Diego 1.4 times the size of Chicago.
In terms of population, Chicago is larger than San Diego. As of 2021, Chicago had a population of 2,746,388, while San Diego had a population of 1,381,611. This means that San Diego has a population density of 4,255.96 people per square mile, while Chicago has a population density of 12,059.84 people per square mile.
Table Comparing Land Area, Population, and Density
| City | Land Area (sq mi) | Population | Population Density (people per sq mi) |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego | 325.88 | 1,381,611 | 4,255.96 |
| Chicago | 227.73 | 2,746,388 | 12,059.84 |
Tourist Attractions
Both San Diego and Chicago have a lot to offer tourists. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in San Diego include the San Diego Zoo, the USS Midway Museum, and SeaWorld San Diego. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Chicago include the Willis Tower, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Airports
Both San Diego and Chicago have multiple airports. San Diego has two major airports: San Diego International Airport (SAN) and Lindbergh Field (SAN). Chicago has three major airports: O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Midway International Airport (MDW), and Chicago Executive Airport (PWK).
Economy
The economies of San Diego and Chicago are both strong. San Diego’s economy is driven by tourism, military, and technology. Chicago’s economy is driven by finance, manufacturing, and transportation.
Available Jobs
Both San Diego and Chicago have a lot of available jobs. San Diego’s job market is particularly strong in the healthcare, technology, and tourism sectors. Chicago’s job market is particularly strong in the finance, manufacturing, and transportation sectors.
Quality of Life
Both San Diego and Chicago have a high quality of life. San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches, mild climate, and relaxed lifestyle. Chicago is known for its vibrant culture, diverse population, and world-class museums and restaurants.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in San Diego is higher than the cost of living in Chicago. The median home price in San Diego is $700,000, while the median home price in Chicago is $250,000. The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in San Diego is $2,000, while the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Chicago is $1,200.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to live in San Diego or Chicago is a personal one. Both cities have a lot to offer, and the best city for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
