Why Chicago Cheap Ass?

I don’t want this blog to be the typical “frugalista” blog.

I used to follow blogs that showed you how to get stuff for free, but it was at the expense of the business offering the free product. I need you to know something – I LOVE Chicago. There are so many amazing businesses here worthy of endless accolades, and ultimately, your business. I refuse to post anything that would negatively impact them.

Being 24 in a big city often means budgeting money and making tough decisions about what’s reasonable and what’s completely out of the realm of possibility. At the end of the month, I need to pay my rent. I need to eat and I don’t want it to be ramen. But I want to go out with friends and experience this beautiful city to its fullest. And I certainly don’t want to be racking up credit card debt.

Thus, Chicago Cheap Ass was born out of a desire to bridge this gap between entry-level salary and big city living. I will share with you (ethical!) tips and tricks to explore this city on a budget. I’ll give you cost-effective transportation strategies, entertainment options, tell you which restaurants give you the best bang for your buck, and more.