<p>Another factor to consider in comparing Duke to Chicago is that Duke is in the south. Depending on your perspective, that can be good or bad. I am neutral myself. </p>
<p>Some people, myself included, find clear differences in culture and sociology between northern cities and regions like Chicago and southern cities/regions. Some folks are far more comfortable in one culture or the other. Some find it invigorating to move from one environment to another, while others are lost in the same shift. It is just something to consider.</p>
<p>(and yes, while Duke attracts kids from all over, and its location is cosmopolitan, it is still the south.)</p>