Chicago
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Local Media
Overview of local news sources, radio stations, and TV networks for staying informed about Chicago.
Sections
1. Newspapers in Chicago
Chicago has a rich history of print journalism, and its newspapers remain a vital source of news and information.
Major Newspapers
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Chicago Tribune
- Overview: One of the most prominent newspapers in the Midwest, the Chicago Tribune covers local, national, and international news, as well as sports, business, and culture.
- Cost:
- Digital-only subscription: Starts at $1 for the first 6 months, then $15/month.
- Print + digital subscription: Around $20โ$30/month, depending on delivery frequency.
- Subscription Process: Visit their website (www.chicagotribune.com) to subscribe. You can choose between digital-only or print delivery options.
- Unique Considerations: The Tribune is known for its investigative journalism and in-depth reporting on Chicago politics and urban issues.
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Chicago Sun-Times
- Overview: A tabloid-style newspaper with a focus on local news, sports (especially Chicago teams), and entertainment.
- Cost:
- Digital-only subscription: $2.49/week or $9.99/month.
- Print subscription: Varies by delivery frequency and location.
- Subscription Process: Visit their website (www.suntimes.com) to sign up for digital or print subscriptions.
- Unique Considerations: The Sun-Times has a more accessible, community-focused tone and is popular for its sports coverage.
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Crainโs Chicago Business
- Overview: A business-focused publication covering Chicagoโs economy, industries, and corporate news.
- Cost: Digital subscriptions start at $120/year, with print options available at higher rates.
- Subscription Process: Visit www.chicagobusiness.com to subscribe.
- Unique Considerations: Ideal for professionals and entrepreneurs looking to stay informed about Chicagoโs business environment.
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Chicago Reader
- Overview: A free alternative weekly newspaper focusing on arts, culture, and local events.
- Cost: Free (print and online).
- Unique Considerations: Great for discovering local events, restaurants, and cultural happenings.
Tips for Visitors and New Residents
- Short-term visitors can pick up free copies of the Chicago Reader or buy single issues of the Tribune or Sun-Times at newsstands or convenience stores.
- New residents may benefit from digital subscriptions to stay updated on local news and events.
2. Radio Stations in Chicago
Chicagoโs radio scene is diverse, offering everything from news and talk shows to music and cultural programming.
Popular Radio Stations
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WBEZ 91.5 FM
- Overview: Chicagoโs NPR (National Public Radio) affiliate, offering news, talk shows, and cultural programming.
- Cost: Free to listen; donations encouraged for membership.
- Unique Considerations: Great for in-depth news and storytelling, including the popular podcast This American Life.
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WXRT 93.1 FM
- Overview: A rock station known for its eclectic playlists and focus on alternative and classic rock.
- Cost: Free to listen.
- Unique Considerations: A favorite among music lovers.
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WGCI 107.5 FM
- Overview: A hip-hop and R&B station catering to Chicagoโs urban audience.
- Cost: Free to listen.
- Unique Considerations: Popular for its music and community-focused programming.
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WGN 720 AM
- Overview: A talk radio station covering news, sports, and entertainment.
- Cost: Free to listen.
- Unique Considerations: Known for its coverage of Chicago sports teams.
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Vocalo 91.1 FM
- Overview: A community-driven station focusing on music, culture, and storytelling.
- Cost: Free to listen.
- Unique Considerations: Offers a unique perspective on Chicagoโs diverse communities.
Tips for Visitors and New Residents
- Visitors can tune in to WBEZ for local news or WXRT for music while exploring the city.
- New residents may enjoy Vocalo for a deeper connection to Chicagoโs cultural scene.
3. Local TV Channels
Chicagoโs local TV stations provide a mix of news, weather, sports, and entertainment.
Major TV Channels
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WGN-TV (Channel 9)
- Overview: A local independent station offering news, weather, and syndicated programming.
- Cost: Free with an antenna; included in most cable packages.
- Unique Considerations: Known for its comprehensive local news coverage.
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ABC 7 Chicago (WLS-TV)
- Overview: The local ABC affiliate, offering news, weather, and national programming.
- Cost: Free with an antenna; included in most cable packages.
- Unique Considerations: One of the most-watched news stations in Chicago.
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NBC 5 Chicago (WMAQ-TV)
- Overview: The local NBC affiliate, providing news, weather, and entertainment.
- Cost: Free with an antenna; included in most cable packages.
- Unique Considerations: Known for its investigative reporting.
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CBS 2 Chicago (WBBM-TV)
- Overview: The local CBS affiliate, offering news, sports, and entertainment.
- Cost: Free with an antenna; included in most cable packages.
- Unique Considerations: Strong focus on breaking news and weather.
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Telemundo Chicago (WSNS-TV)
- Overview: A Spanish-language station offering news and entertainment for Chicagoโs Hispanic community.
- Cost: Free with an antenna; included in most cable packages.
- Unique Considerations: Ideal for Spanish-speaking residents and visitors.
Tips for Visitors and New Residents
- Visitors can watch local news for weather updates and event coverage.
- New residents may consider investing in a digital antenna (around $20โ$50) to access free local channels.
4. Online Media Platforms
Chicagoโs online media scene is thriving, with websites and apps offering news, events, and cultural insights.
Popular Online Platforms
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Block Club Chicago
- Overview: A nonprofit news site covering Chicagoโs neighborhoods.
- Cost: $59/year or $6/month.
- Unique Considerations: Focuses on hyper-local news and community stories.
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Eater Chicago
- Overview: A food-focused site covering Chicagoโs restaurant scene.
- Cost: Free.
- Unique Considerations: Great for discovering new dining spots.
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Choose Chicago
- Overview: The cityโs official tourism site, offering event listings and travel tips.
- Cost: Free.
- Unique Considerations: Perfect for visitors planning their itinerary.
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Chicagoist (Revived by WNYC Studios)
- Overview: Covers Chicago news, culture, and events.
- Cost: Free.
- Unique Considerations: Offers a mix of serious and lighthearted content.
Tips for Visitors and New Residents
- Visitors can use Choose Chicago and Eater Chicago to plan activities and meals.
- New residents may benefit from Block Club Chicago for neighborhood-specific news.
5. Costs and Subscription Processes
- Newspapers: Digital subscriptions range from $6โ$15/month. Print subscriptions are higher due to delivery costs.
- Radio: Free to listen; some stations encourage donations.
- TV: Free with an antenna; cable packages start at around $50/month.
- Online Media: Many platforms are free, but some (like Block Club Chicago) require subscriptions.
6. Unique Considerations
- Language Options: Spanish-language media (e.g., Telemundo Chicago) is widely available for Hispanic residents and visitors.
- Community Focus: Many outlets, like Block Club Chicago and Vocalo, emphasize local stories and diverse perspectives.
- Weather Updates: Chicagoโs weather can be unpredictable, so local TV and radio stations are excellent resources for real-time updates.
By leveraging Chicagoโs diverse media options, visitors and new residents can stay informed, entertained, and connected to the cityโs vibrant culture.