The Windy City

Chicago is the most populous city in Illinois and the third-most populous in the United States. Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, it’s an international hub for finance, commerce, industry, technology, telecommunications, and transportation.

Key Facts

• Nicknames: The Windy City, Chi-Town, City of Big Shoulders
• Founded: Incorporated as a city in 1837
• Population: ~2.7 million (city), ~9.4 million (metro area)
• Area: 228 square miles (590 km²)
• Time Zone: Central Time Zone (UTC−6)

Geography & Climate

Chicago is located on a flat glacial plain on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan. The city’s weather is defined by its four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, while summers are hot and humid. Lake Michigan has a significant moderating effect, especially in the summer when cool lake breezes provide relief from the heat.

Economy & Industry

Chicago’s economy is one of the most diverse in the United States. It’s home to several Fortune 500 companies and has a long history as a transportation and freight hub. Key industries include:

• Finance: Home to major financial exchanges like the Chicago Stock Exchange and the Chicago Board Options Exchange.
• Manufacturing: A historic and still-prominent industry, with a focus on food, fabricated metal, and transportation equipment.
• Technology & Innovation: A rapidly growing tech scene, with a significant number of startups and a strong ecosystem for entrepreneurs.

Keys & Access in the City

The dense urban environment of Chicago presents a unique landscape for key and access control. With a mix of historic brownstones, modern high-rises, and industrial spaces, the types of keys used vary widely. Many apartment buildings, especially in the downtown Loop area and the surrounding neighborhoods, have moved from traditional metal keys to modern, electronically managed systems.

• Common Key Types: Beyond standard residential and commercial keys, Chicago sees a high use of high-security “do not duplicate” keys (such as Schlage and Medeco brands) in many commercial and multi-unit residential buildings. Additionally, a growing number of buildings use key fobs or smart-lock systems that require specialized programming.
• Security & Duplication: For basic keys, hardware stores and local locksmiths can provide quick duplication services for a few dollars. However, for “do not duplicate” keys, you will need to go to an authorized locksmith who can verify ownership, and the cost can be significantly higher. For car key fobs, the cost of duplication can range from $150 to over $500, depending on the car’s make and model and whether you get the key programmed by a locksmith or a dealership.

Culture & Landmarks

Chicago’s cultural scene is rich and diverse, known for its contributions to comedy, blues, and jazz music. Notable landmarks and attractions include:

• Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) in Millennium Park
• The Art Institute of Chicago
• The Willis Tower Skydeck
• Navy Pier
• The historic Chicago Theater

Transportation

Chicago is a major transportation hub for both people and freight. The city is served by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), which operates the second-largest public transportation system in the country. The iconic “L” elevated train system provides rapid transit throughout the city, including direct lines to both O’Hare and Midway airports.