Curious on which office people think is better overall and why:
MN:
- Head of PMA (Private Market Advisory)
- Several coverage groups
- LCOL in MN
CHI:
- One PMA coverage group
- I've heard they also had "advisory", unsure on what the distinction is though
- RX (not really interested in that)
What's your guys take? Interested to hear insight
| +89 | [2026 - October] Unbiased Prestige Rankings | 55 | 1h |
| +87 | Who is the final boss in Houston Energy? (GS, JEFF or EVR) | 19 | 20h |
| +78 | You should probably leave IB | 26 | 1d |
| +45 | Why Do We Turn Comments? | 10 | 1d |
| +43 | Tomorrow Will Be Better | 5 | 4d |
| +41 | Moelis PCA vs Lower tier BB Coverage | 30 | 1d |
| +25 | Banking (Un)fortunately Still Needs You: My Case for Bankers in the AI Era | 3 | 1d |
| +24 | How much should you ask questions / seek feedback as an intern? | 9 | 6h |
| +24 | UBS IB #24 in US M&A in 2026 | 10 | 3h |
| +23 | Lateraling as Analyst | 21 | 3h |
Career Resources
Get instant access to lessons taught by experienced private equity pros and bulge bracket investment bankers including financial statement modeling, DCF, M&A, LBO, Comps and Excel Modeling.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a comparison between Lazard's Minneapolis and Chicago offices:
Minneapolis: - The Minneapolis office is noted for housing the head of Private Market Advisory (PMA). - It includes several coverage groups, which could indicate a diverse range of sectors or industries the office deals with. - The cost of living (LCOL) in Minneapolis is generally lower than in Chicago, which can be a significant factor when considering overall compensation and lifestyle.
Chicago: - The Chicago office has one PMA coverage group, which might suggest a more specialized focus in this area. - There is mention of an "advisory" presence in Chicago, but without further details, it's unclear what the distinction entails. Advisory services could range from strategic advice to specific financial transactions. - The office has a Restructuring (RX) practice, which you've indicated is not of interest to you.
When deciding which office might be better, consider your career goals, the industry sectors you're interested in, and the lifestyle you're looking for. Chicago, being a larger financial hub, may offer broader networking opportunities and a more vibrant city life, while Minneapolis could provide a more affordable living situation and potentially a different work-life balance.
Remember, the best choice depends on your personal preferences and professional aspirations. It's always a good idea to reach out to current or former employees of both offices to get a more nuanced understanding of each location's strengths and culture.
Sources: Lazard vs Moelis Chicago Offices, Piper Jaffray NYC vs Chicago vs Minneapolis vs SF, Lazard vs. MS? (NYC), Lazard SA - Multiple Offices?, Lazard Chicago Midwest Advisory
Isn't Minneapolis basically an F&B practice only?
Et deleniti quibusdam libero quos. Et odit aut assumenda voluptate consequatur. Dolore libero neque fugiat qui dolore ipsa. Non natus ut voluptatem dolores iure. Quia laudantium id autem illum labore consequatur earum vel.
Optio eveniet dolorem rerum dolores ab sint iusto. Voluptates voluptate illo aliquam iusto ipsum qui fugiat. Facere qui perferendis perferendis maxime accusamus.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...