Chicago Business Daily

If you have lived in both Chicago and Minneapolis, which has more insect problems and weather problems?

We''ve heard that the mosquitos are the "state bird of Minnesota". Does that mean that they are really bad near Minneapolis? Are there lots of bees or wasps around Minneapolis in the summer? How unbearable really are the long, cold winters compared to Chicago winters? Is Minneapolis a lot sunnier in the winter than in Chicago?

Public Comments

1. I never lived in Minneapolis, but I have been there a few times, both in summer and winter. The summers are very similar except for the mosquitoes and you sure have that right - saddle 'em up and ride 'em we used to say - but really the summers are the same as Chicago, hot and muggy but also shorter. Chicago winters are more bearable. We only occasionally get 15' snowdrifts. In MN it's normal. They are also used to dealing with things - they have the snow plows, etc. You have to plug a stick into your oil in order to start your car in the morning! I can't help liking Chicago more, but Minnesota is becoming very popular lately.
2. Minneapolis is prettier with more lakes but the Winters are even more brutal than Chicago. Summers are similar. The city sprays for mosquito's but outside the city it's terrible. Too much fresh water and the bugs love it.
3. Chicago would be better. Minnesota winters are BRUTAL