I live in Chicago. I am moving from the suburbs to downtown next weekend. The higher cost of rent offsets the savings in travel costs. It's not inconceivable

I live in Chicago. I am moving from the suburbs to downtown next weekend. The higher cost of rent offsets the savings in travel costs. It's not inconceivable that many people have their offices in a crowded area like downtown Chicago - so they'd be facing the same issue. But I'm doing it to save time and energy. Although, again, suburban areas tend to have cleaner air and bigger houses - much better for health than a studio apartment near a high traffic road. I'd say if you can telecommute, to live in the suburbs is a no-brainer. If you have to travel, car-pooling and public transport are better options than driving yourself to work everyday.