Moving from Montgomery to Chicago?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Montgomery to Chicago Movers

Moving from the historical charm of Montgomery, AL, to the bustling streets of Chicago, IL, marks an adventure filled with new beginnings and opportunities. While you're trading the laid-back Southern hospitality and the "Capital of Dreams" for the Windy City, known for its dynamic skyline and deep-dish pizza, the transition is a vibrant journey of discovery. Understanding the significance of this long journey, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your belongings arrive safely, and that's where we, at Great Guys Moving, come in, using our unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best movers suited for your needs.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Montgomery guide.

5 Best Montgomery to Chicago Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
606 Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,152+ data points

Chicago, IL
Residential Movers, Commercial Movers, Packing & Unpacking Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3476069 Verify

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 >>

top 10 chicago 2024 606 movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in kankakee 2023 606 movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in park forest 2022 606 movers inc image
#2
Move-tastic! Logo
Exceptional

based on 10,649+ data points

Chicago, IL
Full Moves, Truck Loading and Unloading, Interstate Moving Assistance See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1906350 Verify

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 >>

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top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top 3 ranked movers in chicago 2023 move tastic image
#3
Pink Zebra Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 259+ data points

Montgomery, AL
Home Moving Services, Apartment/Condo/Townhome Moving Services, Furniture Rearranging Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/12/2024)

USDOT: 3976058 Verify

About Pink Zebra Moving

Pink Zebra Moving is a service company that revolutionizes the moving industry. They strive to provide a luxurious, stress-free moving exper...Read More >>

top 3 montgomery 2024 pink zebra moving image
top 10 ranked movers in montgomery 2023 pink zebra moving image
#4
McCorquodale Transfer, Inc Logo
Below Average

based on 155+ data points

Montgomery, AL
Local moves, Commercial moves, Antique transfer See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 713589 Verify

About McCorquodale Transfer, Inc

McCorquodale Transfer, Inc. offers the finest in household and office relocation services. It has been serving customers for over 20 years a...Read More >>

top 10 ranked movers in montgomery 2023 mccorquodale transfer inc image
top 3 ranked movers in montgomery 2022 mccorquodale transfer inc image
top ranked movers in montgomery 2021 mccorquodale transfer inc image
#5
Two Men and a Truck Logo
Below Average

based on 557+ data points

Auburn, AL
Local moving, Junk removal, Storage See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1416474 Verify

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck Auburn-Montgomery has been serving the area for over 15 years. It has now completed 20,000 moves, delivering an exceptio...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in montgomery 2022 two men and a truck image
top 10 ranked movers in montgomery 2021 two men and a truck image

Relocating from Montgomery to Chicago Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can feel like navigating uncharted waters. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison between Montgomery, AL & Chicago, IL local neighborhoods . Using Montgomery's top areas as a baseline, we'll help you find a Chicago neighborhood with a similar vibe, making your move a little more familiar.

MontgomeryChicago
CloverdaleAndersonville

Eclectic mix of local shops & eateries

Old CloverdaleRavenswood

Historic, artsy vibe with community focus

Garden DistrictRoscoe Village

Quiet, family-friendly with classic charm

HampsteadLincoln Square

Emphasis on local businesses & green spaces

Pike RoadBeverly

Strong community feel, historic homes

Historic South HullHyde Park

Rich history, cultural diversity, educational institutions

Capitol HeightsBridgeport

Working-class heritage, diverse food scene

Forest ParkWicker Park

Vibrant nightlife, arts scene, boutique shopping

HalcyonLogan Square

Trendy restaurants, craft cocktail bars

Cottage HillProvidence

Close-knit community, local landmarks

If you're intrigued by the eclectic mix of shops and eateries in Cloverdale, you'll love the vibrant atmosphere of Andersonville. Here, local businesses thrive, offering a range of unique experiences from cozy brunch spots like Lost and Found to historic venues like the Swedish American Museum. For those drawn to the historic and artsy vibe of Old Cloverdale, Ravenswood will feel like home, with its emphasis on community and arts, highlighted by events and local businesses such as Lillstreet Art Center. Meanwhile, the quiet charm of the Garden District is mirrored in Roscoe Village, where family-friendly activities and local eateries like Johnny's Grill offer a tranquil yet engaging lifestyle.

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Things to Do in Chicago

  • Explore the Art Institute of Chicago
  • Watch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field
  • Visit Shedd Aquarium
  • Enjoy Millennium Park concerts
  • Take the Chicago Architecture River Cruise
  • Discover the Field Museum

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Montgomery to Chicago

Moving from Montgomery, AL to Chicago, IL brings about a significant change in lifestyle, presenting both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Montgomery, AL to Chicago, IL , helping you make a well-informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Montgomery, AL iconMontgomery, AL
  • Smaller City
  • Fewer Job Opportunities
  • Lower Diversity
  • Milder Winters
  • Less Public Transportation
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Larger Urban Area
  • More Job Opportunities
  • Greater Cultural Diversity
  • Lively Winter Season
  • Extensive Public Transit
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • More Crowded
  • Colder Winters
  • More Traffic
Montgomery, AL iconMontgomery, AL
  • Lower Cost of Living
  • More Personal Space
  • Warmer Winters
  • Less Traffic Congestion

While moving from Montgomery to Chicago means trading the comfort of milder winters and a lower cost of living for the excitement of a city with more to do, it's worth examining the details to fully understand this tradeoff. Chicago's extensive public transit system, including the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), offers connections to diverse neighborhoods such as Wicker Park and Hyde Park, where local restaurants like Big Star and cultural sights like the Museum of Science and Industry await. Despite the colder winters, Chicago's winter season is vibrant with activities like ice skating at Millennium Park and attending seasonal events. On the other hand, Montgomery's appeal lies in its slower pace, less expensive living, and warmer winters, catering to those who prefer a more laid-back lifestyle.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Montgomery to Chicago

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Montgomery & Chicago to help you understand the food culture awaiting you. Food plays a vital role in the local culture and the overall experience of living in an area. Here's what you need to know about the food scenes in these two cities.

MontgomeryChicago

Most iconic local food item

Fried CatfishDeep Dish Pizza

Most popular meat dish

Pulled Pork BBQItalian Beef

Most popular street food item

Boiled PeanutsChicago-style Hot Dog

Most popular vegan food

Black-Eyed PeasSeitan Wings

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Central
  • Dreamland BBQ
  • Jim 'N Nick's
  • Lou Malnati's
  • Au Cheval
  • Girl & The Goat

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

68

Abundance of Food Trucks

47

Foodie Scene

69

Vegan Friendly

58

When moving from Montgomery to Chicago, you'll notice significant differences in the local cuisine. Chicago's food scene is highly diverse, with iconic dishes like deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati's standing out. In contrast, Montgomery offers a taste of the south with its famous Fried Catfish and Pulled Pork BBQ found in places like Dreamland BBQ. Chicago boasts a vibrant street food scene highlighted by the Chicago-style hot dog, a stark contrast to Montgomery's simpler, yet iconic boiled peanuts. Furthermore, Chicago's food scene is more vegan-friendly, with a wealth of options like seitan wings, and scores higher in terms of health-consciousness and the abundance of food trucks, reflecting the city's bustling urban lifestyle.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Montgomery to Chicago

As you make the transition from Montgomery, AL to Chicago, IL, finding those go-to restaurants that make a new city feel like home is crucial. This comparison is designed to help you seamlessly find equivalents in Chicago to your favorite Montgomery eateries , ensuring your culinary experience is uninterrupted. Whether you're in search of a high-end dining experience, a casual bite, or a unique foodie adventure, this guide has you covered.

CentralAlinea

Both offer an upscale dining experience with innovative dishes

Jubilee SeafoodJoe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab

Known for high-quality seafood and steak

Vintage YearGirl & The Goat

Both are trendy spots known for their creative and upscale menus

Cloverdale Service StationLongman & Eagle

Both offer a casual yet trendy dining environment with an excellent bar

Martin’s RestaurantLuella’s Southern Kitchen

Both are renowned for their authentic Southern cuisine

El Rey Burrito LoungeXOCO

Both offer high-quality, innovative Mexican dishes in a casual setting

Sa ZaSiena Tavern

Both are Italian eateries offering a modern twist on traditional dishes

Derk’s Filet & VinePublican Quality Meats

Both provide a combination of gourmet shop and restaurant with a focus on meats

Capitol Oyster BarGT Fish & Oyster

Both are known for their wide selection of oysters and seafood offerings

Chris’ Hot DogsPortillo's

Both iconic spots famous for their hot dogs and casual fast-food style eats

Among these noteworthy comparisons, Alinea and Central stand out for their unparalleled approach to fine dining in Chicago and Montgomery respectively. A visit to Alinea is a culinary journey, mirroring Central's dedication to high-quality, innovative cuisine. On the more casual side, El Rey Burrito Lounge and XOCO both celebrate Mexican cuisine with a unique twist, perfect for when you're craving flavors from south of the border. If it’s the taste of the South you're missing, Luella’s Southern Kitchen in Chicago echoes the homestyle cooking of Martin’s Restaurant, promising comfort in every bite. Exploring these Chicago equivalents not only provides a sense of familiarity but also the opportunity to discover new favorites.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Montgomery to Chicago

When planning a move, comparing the real estate markets of your current and future cities is crucial. This guide focuses on moving from Montgomery, AL, to Chicago, IL , highlighting crucial housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Knowing how these two cities stack up can help make your transition smoother.

In moving from Montgomery to Chicago, you'll find a dynamic shift not only in the cost of living but also in the lifestyle. Chicago's higher median home prices and rent reflect its urban density and robust public transit system, offering unparalleled access to a myriad of cultural, entertainment, and dining options. The city's emphasis on walkability and bikeability speaks to an active and environmental consciousness among its residents. Moreover, Chicago's real estate market is diverse, featuring everything from modern high-rises with stunning lake views to historic Victorian homes. These attributes, combined with an urban lifestyle rating significantly higher than Montgomery's, indicate a vibrant city life waiting for you in Chicago.

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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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Montgomery to Chicago

When planning a move from Montgomery, AL to Chicago, IL, understanding the comparison in weather between these locations is crucial. This comparison will help you anticipate the changes and prepare accordingly, particularly because the climates in Montgomery and Chicago vary significantly.

Summer icon
91°F / 71°F

Montgomery, AL

83°F / 63°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57°F / 36°F

Montgomery, AL

32°F / 18°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
53

Montgomery, AL

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0.2

Montgomery, AL

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Montgomery to Chicago, you'll experience a significant shift in seasonal weather patterns . Chicago's winters are notably colder, introducing you to heavy snowfall contrary to Montgomery's mild winters with negligible snow. Summer in Chicago is milder compared to Montgomery's hot and humid conditions, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. The increase in snowfall could require adjustments in your daily routine and attire, particularly in winter. Understanding these weather derivatives can significantly impact your acclimation to your new city.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Montgomery to Chicago

When planning a move from Montgomery to Chicago, understanding the financial landscape is crucial. This chart compares money and finance-related topics such as cost of living, taxes, and average income, crucial for anyone moving between Montgomery and Chicago. It's a guide to help you gauge how your financial well-being might change.

Moving from Montgomery to Chicago, you'll notice distinct differences in the economic landscape. Although the average household income is higher in Chicago, so is the cost of living, particularly in housing expenses reflected by property taxes more than quadruple those in Montgomery. While both cities have their challenges with poverty and homelessness, these issues are more pronounced in urban settings like Chicago. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for planning your finances post-move, especially considering the higher sales tax and the vibrant, yet more expensive, lifestyle that Chicago offers.

Political & Religious Comparison between Montgomery, AL and Chicago, IL

Welcome to this unique comparison, highlighted by a bold exploration of the politics between Montgomery & Chicago . This comparison offers a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of these cities, providing an insightful snapshot for those contemplating a move.

MontgomeryChicago

Political Make-up

Conservatively inclinedLiberally inclined

Local Politics

Dominated by the Republican PartyDominated by the Democratic Party

Religion

Christianity is predominant, with significant Baptist and Methodist communities. First Baptist Church MontgomeryReligious diversity including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and others. Temple Sholom

When you move from Montgomery, AL, to Chicago, IL, you're not just changing your address. You're transitioning between two very different social landscapes. In Montgomery, the community leans more conservative, with local politics predominantly in the hands of the Republican Party. This reflects in the city's policies and social initiatives. On the religious front, Christianity dominates, particularly Baptist and Methodist denominations, influencing the social fabric and community values. Meanwhile, Chicago's political scene is heavily weighted towards the Democratic Party, hosting a more liberal populace. This diversity extends to religion, where the city's residents practice a wide array of beliefs, from Christianity to Judaism, and beyond, making for a more diversified cultural experience. Understanding these differences can help you adjust more smoothly to your new environment.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Montgomery to Chicago

Moving from Montgomery, AL, to Chicago, IL, involves adjusting to many changes, including what your daily commute and traffic will look like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Montgomery & Chicago will help you better understand these differences.

MontgomeryChicago
2034

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

39

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

No, difficultYes, feasible

Can you get by without car?

In Montgomery, your daily commute is generally straightforward and less time-consuming with an average commute time significantly shorter than in Chicago. However, the city scores low on the availability of public transit, making it challenging to get by without a car. On the other hand, Chicago offers an extensive public transit system, making it much easier to navigate the city without personal transportation, despite facing heavier traffic congestion. This robust network includes buses and the “L” train system, connecting various neighborhoods and making commuting more manageable. This difference highlights the importance of understanding and adapting to the transportation dynamics of your new city.

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