Best Birmingham to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the historic streets of Birmingham, AL, to the bustling avenues of Chicago, IL, represents an exciting chapter in your life, full of new beginnings and adventures. While you transition from the "Magic City" with its rich civil rights history and southern charm to the "Windy City," known for its iconic architecture, deep-dish pizza, and jazz blues, it's a journey of leaving familiar comforts for the allure of an urban renaissance. Given the complexities of such a long-distance move, entrusting it to reliable and trusted professional movers is crucial; our unbiased ranking algorithm at Great Guys Moving ensures you get matched with the best, removing the guesswork from your big move.
Best Birmingham to Chicago Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Birmingham guide.
5 Best Birmingham to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About MoveDaddy
Move Daddy offers a wide variety of moving services in Birmingham, including full-service residential and commercial moves, moving labor onl...Read More >>
Services
- Long Distance moving
- Local moving
- Cross-country moving
About 606 Movers, Inc.
606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly movi...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving c...Read More >>
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
About New Latitude Movers
New Latitude Moving and Storage is a full-service moving company based in Birmingham, Alabama. Originally started as an antique moving compa...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Storage Facilities
About Secure Moving Inc
Secure Moving Inc is a licensed, insured, and vetted full-service moving company that’s been operating for over a hundred years. As an agent...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!
Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:
- No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
- Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.
Birmingham vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving cities can be daunting, especially when you're leaving the familiar for the unknown. A great way to ease this transition is by finding a neighborhood in your new city that feels like home. This guide is designed to help you compare popular neighborhoods in Birmingham, AL & Chicago, IL , making the move feel less like a leap and more like a simple step. Let's find your new neighborhood by using your current one as a baseline.
| Birmingham | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Highland Park | Hyde Park | Culturally rich, historic |
| Mountain Brook | Lincoln Park | Upscale, green space |
| Forest Park | Logan Square | Trendy, independent businesses |
| Avtondale | Wicker Park | Vibrant nightlife, arts scene |
| Homewood | Andersonville | Diverse, community-centric |
| Vestavia Hills | Lakeview | Family-friendly, bustling |
| Hoover | Roscoe Village | Suburban feel, good schools |
| Southside | Pilsen | Rich in culture, emerging artists |
| Five Points South | Old Town | Historic, vibrant community life |
| Downtown | The Loop | Urban center, theaters |
In comparing the neighborhoods of Birmingham, AL, to those in Chicago, IL, unique parallels emerge, allowing for an easier transition for newcomers. For instance, the historic charm and cultural depth of Highland Park closely mirrors that of Hyde Park in Chicago, known for its rich history and diverse cultural offerings, such as the celebrated Hyde Park Art Center. Similarly, the upscale and tranquil vibe of Mountain Brook finds a parallel in Lincoln Park, which boasts an abundance of green spaces, including the renowned Lincoln Park Zoo. Those moving from the artsy and vibrant Avondale in Birmingham might find themselves at home in Wicker Park, a neighborhood that celebrates independent businesses, eclectic dining, and a robust arts scene. Each Chicago neighborhood, from the family-friendly Lakeview reminiscent of Vestavia Hills to the culturally rich Pilsen echoing the vibe of Southside, offers its own unique charm and character, ensuring newcomers from Birmingham can find a new place to call home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Birmingham to Chicago
Moving cities is a big step filled with excitement and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Birmingham, AL to Chicago, IL . Understanding both sides will help you make an informed decision, ensuring that the grass is indeed greener on the other side.
Birmingham, AL- Lower cultural diversity
- Less job opportunities
- Smaller city vibe
- Warmer winters
- Limited public transport
Chicago, IL- Rich cultural diversity
- More job opportunities
- Vibrant urban life
- Snowy, picturesque winters
- Extensive public transport
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- Heavy traffic and commuting
- Larger impersonal community
- Less green space
- Louder urban noise
Birmingham, AL- Lower cost of living
- Easy traffic and commuting
- Close-knit community
- Abundant green space
- Quieter city life
Choosing between Birmingham and Chicago isn't just about weather or job prospects; it touches on the essence of lifestyle you're seeking. Chicago's vibrant urban life is complemented by its rich cultural diversity, visible in neighborhoods like Pilsen and Hyde Park, each offering unique restaurants, parks like Millennium Park, and cultural sights. Yet, Birmingham's quieter, close-knit community and its easy-going pace, reflected in places like the Birmingham Botanical Gardens or the cozy cafes downtown, cater to those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle. Whether it's enjoying the snowy vistas of Chicago winters or the warmer, milder winters of Birmingham, the choice deeply depends on the personal preference for urban bustle or a tighter-knit community vibe.
Birmingham vs. Chicago Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Birmingham & Chicago, highlighting the importance of food in understanding the cultural fabric of each location. As you contemplate moving, this guide offers insights into the culinary scenes you’re about to explore.
| Birmingham | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Fried Green Tomatoes | Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Barbecue Ribs | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Gourmet Hot Dogs | Chicago-Style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Plate | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Birmingham to Chicago, you’ll transition from the Southern charm of fried green tomatoes and sumptuous barbecue ribs to the urban gusto of deep-dish pizza and Italian beef. Birmingham’s culinary scene is intimate, known for its Southern hospitality and unique gourmet hot dogs that fuse traditional flavors with innovative recipes. Contrastingly, Chicago boasts a vibrant food scene with an impressive array of food trucks and a high score in vegan friendliness, featuring neighborhoods like Logan Square and restaurants like The Purple Pig, where seitan wings and Chicago-style hot dogs reign supreme. This city not only offers iconic dishes but also a bustling foodie scene that caters to all palates.
Birmingham vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite dining spot is key to feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition for those moving from Birmingham, AL to Chicago, IL by comparing top restaurants. Whether you're in search of high-end dining, casual eats, or something uniquely local, we’ve got you covered.
| Birmingham | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Highlands Bar and Grill | Alinea | Both offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on detail and innovative cuisine. |
| Hot and Hot Fish Club | Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Known for high-quality seafood and steaks, closely mirroring the upscale yet comforting dining experience. |
| Saw's BBQ | Smoque BBQ | Both are celebrated for their authentic, regionally-influenced barbecue dishes. |
| Bottega Restaurant | Spiaggia | Both restaurants exemplify high-quality Italian dining with a keen eye for ingredients and flavors. |
| Frank Stitt's Chez Fonfon | Bistro Campagne | Offering a comparable French bistro atmosphere with a focus on traditional dishes and casual elegance. |
| El Barrio | Big Star | Both serve up quality, innovative Mexican cuisine in a lively, casual setting. |
| Highland Coffee Company | Intelligentsia Coffee | Renowned for their specialty coffees and commitment to quality, offering a similar artisan coffee experience. |
| OvenBird | Girl & The Goat | While the cuisines differ, both establishments focus on a shared, small plates dining experience, showcasing chef-driven, creative dishes. |
| Post Office Pies | Pequod's Pizza | Both are beloved for their unique approach to local pizza traditions, offering distinctive and memorable pies. |
| Niki's West Steak & Seafood | Shaw's Crab House | Both are institutions in their respective cities, offering a wide variety of fresh seafood and steak options in an inviting atmosphere. |
When seeking a culinary adventure reminiscent of Birmingham's vibrant flavors, Chicago's dining scene will not disappoint. Alinea, mirroring the high-end and creatively driven ethos of Highlands Bar and Grill, is a must-visit for those seeking an extraordinary dining experience. For a more casual, yet equally satisfying meal, Smoque BBQ's dedication to authentic, smoky flavors provides a comforting taste of home similar to Saw's BBQ. Meanwhile, Intelligentsia Coffee, much like Highland Coffee Company, is perfect for coffee enthusiasts looking for a meticulously crafted coffee in a welcoming environment. Through these comparisons, the transition from Birmingham to Chicago can be deliciously seamless.
Ready to start your move?
Birmingham vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When preparing for a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Birmingham, AL and Chicago, IL will highlight essential housing aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Birmingham | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Prairie Style |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, Quiet neighborhoods | Lake views, Proximity to public transportation |
While the median home prices in Birmingham and Chicago are relatively similar, the cost of living, including rent, tends to be significantly higher in Chicago. However, this is balanced by Chicago's vibrant urban lifestyle, marked by a higher walkability and bikeability score, indicating that you might not need a car to get around, which can offset some living costs. Chicago is renowned for its architectural diversity, including the famous Prairie style, while Birmingham homes often feature the charming Colonial Revival style, reflecting its historical roots. Moreover, Chicago's high urban lifestyle score is indicative of its rich cultural scene, ample green spaces like Millennium Park, and comprehensive public transport system, making it an enticing option for those seeking a vibrant city life.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL
1. Lincoln Park: With its sprawling namesake park, you'll find plenty of green spaces for walks and the Lincoln Park Dog Park where your furry friend can run off-leash.
2. Lakeview: Home to the popular Wiggly Field Dog Park, Lakeview offers an urban setting with a pet-friendly attitude, hosting numerous pet supply shops and pet-friendly patios.
3. Andersonville: This community-oriented neighborhood not only features pet-friendly dining and shopping but also events like the annual Andersonville Pet Parade, making it a delightful place for pet owners.
Birmingham vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another means adapting to new weather patterns. This comparison between Birmingham, AL, and Chicago, IL weather is essential to prepare you for what lies ahead. Understanding the climate differences will help you adjust more comfortably to your new home.
Birmingham, AL
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Birmingham, AL
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Birmingham, AL
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Birmingham, AL
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Birmingham | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Thunderstorms | Snowstorms, Extreme Cold |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Shifting from Birmingham to Chicago, you'll experience a stark contrast in winter temperatures and snowfall. Chicago's winters are notoriously cold and long, with an average annual snowfall of 36 inches, vastly different from Birmingham's mild winters and minimal snow. Despite similar humidity levels, Chicago experiences fewer days of sunshine, which could impact your daily life and activities. Also, prepare for different natural disaster risks – while Birmingham faces threats from tornadoes, Chicago's concerns revolve around snowstorms and extreme cold. Understanding these differences allows you to plan better for seasonal activities and emergency preparedness in Chicago.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Birmingham to Chicago
When planning a move from Birmingham, AL to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to understand how your finances might be affected. This comparison will help you grasp the differences in economic factors between Birmingham and Chicago , including income levels, taxation, and the cost of living. Knowing these differences will ensure there are no surprises as you transition.
| Comparison | Birmingham | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,614 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.8 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.65 | 2.02 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Finance, Manufacturing | Finance, Healthcare, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Widespread |
While both Birmingham and Chicago offer rich cultural experiences and job opportunities, the cost of living and economic landscape differ substantially. Chicago has a higher average household income and is considered more affluent, but this comes with a higher cost of living and property taxes. It is important to note that though state income tax is marginally lower in Chicago, the average sales tax is slightly higher. Moreover, the industries dominating each city's economy differ, with finance and healthcare being crucial in both, but technology playing a more significant role in Chicago’s economy. Understanding these dynamics can greatly impact your decision-making process and help prepare you for the financial aspects of your move.
Birmingham vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Birmingham, AL to Chicago, IL, it's essential to understand the communities you’ll be transitioning between. This comparison of the politics between Birmingham & Chicago aims to provide a quick snapshot of the political and religious landscapes of these two cities, helping you to gauge how well you might fit in or adapt.
| Birmingham | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | City leadership focuses on economic development and social issues. | City leadership prioritizes social equity and environmental initiatives. |
| Religion | Diverse, with a strong Protestant presence | Religious diversity with a significant Catholic population |
While both Birmingham and Chicago lean Democratic, you'll find Chicago's political landscape is more fervently so, reflecting in its local governance and policy priorities, like environmental sustainability and social equity. Birmingham, while also progressive, tends to concentrate more on economic development in line with its pivotal role in the region's growth. Despite differences, both cities boast a tapestry of religious communities, offering vibrant places of worship and community engagement whether you’re Protestant moving to predominantly Catholic Chicago, or vice versa.
Birmingham vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Birmingham, AL, to Chicago, IL, introduces a stark change in traffic and transportation options. Understanding this comparison will help you better anticipate what your daily commute and interactions with traffic may look like after the move.
| Comparison | Birmingham | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
In Birmingham, your daily commute might feel more straightforward with its lower traffic congestion levels and generally shorter commute times. However, the city's public transit options are limited, making a car almost essential for getting around. In contrast, Chicago offers extensive public transit services, including buses, trains, and the famous 'L' system, facilitating a car-free lifestyle. Despite higher traffic congestion and longer average commute times, Chicago's well-developed public transportation network and bike lanes make it easier to navigate the city without relying on personal vehicles, marking a significant shift from the Birmingham experience.
Popular Birmingham, AL to Illinois Moving Routes
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