Moving from Mesa to Chicago?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Mesa to Chicago Movers

Moving from the sun-baked expanses of Mesa, AZ, to the bustling streets of Chicago, IL, presents an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. Leaving behind the Valley of the Sun for the Windy City, you're transitioning from desert vistas to towering skyscrapers, and from laid-back southwestern vibes to the dynamic pulse of Midwestern culture. It's crucial, in embarking on this long-distance move, to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers; our team at Great Guys Moving ensures you're matched with the best, making your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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

5 Best Mesa to Chicago Movers

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

#1
Sterling Interstate LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 2,279+ data points

Phoenix, AZ
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3006713 Verify

About Sterling Interstate LLC

Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, cu...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in phoenix 2023 sterling interstate llc image
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#2
6
Exceptional

based on 1,152+ data points

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

(last checked 9/6/2024)

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in kankakee 2023 606 movers inc image
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#3
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 9/5/2024)

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 3 ranked movers in chicago 2023 move tastic image
#4
New Beginnings Moving Solutions Logo
Exceptional

based on 991+ data points

Peoria, AZ
Long Distance Moves, Local Moves, Business Relocation See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/27/2022)

USDOT: 3656946 Verify

About New Beginnings Moving Solutions

New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and h...Read More >>

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#5
Creative Moving and Packing, LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,091+ data points

Phoenix, AZ
Local Moving Services, Long-Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1877603 Verify

About Creative Moving and Packing, LLC

Since 2008, Creative Moving and Packing has served the Phoenix, AZ, area with high-quality local and long-distance relocation services. This...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in phoenix 2023 creative moving and packing llc image
top 10 ranked movers in phoenix 2022 creative moving and packing llc image

Relocating from Mesa to Chicago Neighborhood Guide

Moving can be an overwhelming experience, especially when transitioning to a city with a distinct vibe and character. To ease this journey, we’re highlighting the similarities between neighborhoods in Mesa, AZ, and their comparable neighborhoods in Chicago, IL . This comparison is designed to help you find your new home in a community that resonates with your current preferences and lifestyle, ensuring a smoother transition to the Windy City.

MesaChicago
Las SendasLincoln Park

Green and affluent

Alta MesaWicker Park

Trendy with a vibrant nightlife

Red Mountain RanchRavenswood

Residential, with a community feel

Dobson RanchHyde Park

Historic with diverse culture

MulberryAndersonville

Quaint and artsy

Boulder MountainRoscoe Village

Family-friendly and serene

Mountain BridgeBridgeport

Strong sense of community

EastmarkLogan Square

Innovative and bustling

Las Palmas GrandGold Coast

Upscale and historic

Tuscany VillasOld Town

Charming and historic

Exploring neighborhoods like Lincoln Park in Chicago can offer Las Sendas residents a familiar sense of the green, affluent lifestyle they're used to, with the added benefit of enjoying iconic parks such as Lincoln Park Zoo. For those who thrive in a vibrant community with an eclectic mix of entertainment and dining, transitioning from Alta Mesa to Wicker Park is a natural move. Wicker Park provides a dynamic mix of hip restaurants, trendy boutiques, and buzzing nightlife, similar to what you've cherished in Mesa but with a distinct Chicago flair. Hyde Park, comparable to Dobson Ranch, not only celebrates diversity and history but also houses the renowned University of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry, offering intellectual and cultural stimulation right in your neighborhood. Those considering a move from Mulberry to Andersonville will find joy in exploring the unique local shops, enjoying diverse culinary delights, and engaging in the rich tapestry of arts and culture, exactly what one would hope to find in a quaint and artsy community.

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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 Mesa to Chicago

Moving between cities is a significant life event, and making an informed decision requires weighing the pluses and minuses. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Mesa, AZ to Chicago, IL . By examining the cons of Mesa against Chicago's pros and vice versa, this guide provides a balanced perspective to help you decide.

CONs
PROs
Mesa, AZ iconMesa, AZ
  • Less cultural venues
  • Hot summers
  • Fewer public transit options
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Smaller job market
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Rich arts scene
  • Four seasons
  • Extensive transit system
  • World-class dining
  • Larger job market
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher living costs
  • Less outdoor space
  • More traffic
  • Cold winters
  • Urban hustle
Mesa, AZ iconMesa, AZ
  • Lower cost of living
  • More outdoor activities
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Bright, sunny weather
  • Suburban tranquility

Moving from Mesa's suburban tranquility to Chicago's vibrant urban environment offers a significant lifestyle shift. Chicago's dynamic arts scene, represented by institutions like The Art Institute of Chicago, contrasts with Mesa's more limited cultural venues. The change from Mesa's bright, sunny weather to experiencing all four seasons in Chicago introduces you to the beauty of snowy winters and the charm of fall, not to mention Chicago's world-class dining with famous establishments like Girl & The Goat. While Mesa offers a respite from the hustle with its outdoor activities and less traffic, Chicago's extensive public transit system and larger job market present new opportunities for growth and exploration. Making this move requires considering these factors to embrace the lifestyle most fitting for you.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Mesa to Chicago

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Mesa, AZ, and Chicago, IL because food is an integral part of understanding the cultural vibe and day-to-day life in these areas. This guide aims to give you an insightful peek into what you’ll experience, cuisine-wise, as you transition from the desert warmth of Mesa to the bustling, windy streets of Chicago.

MesaChicago

Most iconic local food item

Navajo TacoDeep-Dish Pizza

Most popular meat dish

Carne AsadaItalian Beef Sandwich

Most popular street food item

TacosHot Dogs

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit TacosVegan Deep-Dish Pizza

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Giordano's
    2. Portillo's
    3. Alinea

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

76

Abundance of Food Trucks

87

Foodie Scene (out of 10)

79

Vegan Friendly

78

Delving into the culinary landscapes of Mesa and Chicago, it’s evident that each city embraces a distinct local flair. In Mesa, the influence of Southwest cuisine is unmistakable with the Navajo Taco standing as a local favorite, while Carne Asada and tacos symbolize the area's love for Mexican-inspired flavors. In contrast, Chicago is renowned for its deep-dish pizza—a hearty, saucy, and cheesy delight—alongside the iconic Italian beef sandwich, characterizing the heartiness of Midwestern cuisine. While street food in Mesa leans towards the quick, spicy bites found in food trucks throughout the city, Chicago’s street food culture reveres the classic hot dog, loaded with an array of toppings but famously excluding ketchup. For vegans, Mesa’s jackfruit tacos offer a creative and flavorful alternative, whereas Chicago caters to plant-based preferences with its notorious vegan deep-dish pizza. Among the bustling streets of Chicago, neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and the West Loop are culinary hotspots, where eateries such as Alinea push the boundaries of fine dining, and Portillo's serves up comfort food at its finest. Moving from Mesa to Chicago, you’re not just transitioning places—you’re embarking on an entirely new culinary adventure.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Mesa to Chicago

Food plays a critical role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison is designed to ease your transition from Mesa, AZ to Chicago, IL, helping you find your new favorite eateries, moving Mesa to Chicago in the culinary sense. Whether you're craving high-end dining experiences or cozy, casual spots, we've matched top Mesa restaurants with their Chicago counterparts.

T.C. Eggington'sWildberry Pancakes and Cafe

Both boast an extensive breakfast and brunch menu featuring hearty, American classics.

Bobby QSmoke Daddy

Known for smoked meats and homestyle barbecue sides, mirroring the comfort food vibe of Bobby Q.

Republica Empanada90 Miles Cuban Cafe

Offering a taste of Latin America with authentic dishes and a vibrant atmosphere, similar to Republica Empanada.

Red White & BrewThe Gage

Both offer an exceptional selection of drinks alongside upscale American cuisine in a relaxed yet refined setting.

Worth TakeawayPublican Quality Meats

Celebrated for their sandwiches crafted from high-quality, artisanal meats and fresh local ingredients, akin to Worth Takeaway's approach.

Blue Adobe Santa Fe GrilleAdobo Grill

Both specialize in Southwestern flavors with a focus on New Mexican cuisine, offering a similar spice-infused dining experience.

Organ Stop PizzaGullivers Pizza and Pub

Known for their unique dining experience with entertainment, providing a comparable ambiance to Organ Stop Pizza.

VK Sushi & RamenRamen-San

Offering a modern take on traditional Japanese dishes, with a focus on ramen and sushi similar to VK Sushi & Ramen's offerings.

Cornish Pasty Co.Pleasant House Pub

Both are beloved for their hearty, baked pasties and homey British fare, embodying a warm, comforting dining experience.

Flancer’sFontano’s Subs

Fontano’s matches Flancer’s dedication to deli classics with a rich history in sandwich-making, celebrating quality ingredients.

Diving deeper into these culinary matchups, you'll find that each restaurant pair shares something special beyond their menus. For instance, Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe in Chicago and T.C. Eggington's in Mesa both serve up breakfast and brunch that can turn even the gloomiest mornings into something delightful, with Wildberry's berry bliss pancakes being a must-try. Meanwhile, seekers of the smoky, savory delights of American barbecue will find solace in Smoke Daddy, whose commitment to quality smoked meats and lively atmosphere will remind Mesa transplants of Bobby Q's back home. Embracing these new dining spots means discovering the heart and soul of Chicago's diverse culinary scene while keeping the essence of Mesa eateries close.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Mesa to Chicago


Real estate significantly impacts the decision-making process of moving. Understanding how the housing aspects of Mesa, AZ, and Chicago, IL compare can greatly inform your choice. This comparison dives deep into cost, architectural styles, and lifestyle scores to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in each city.


Moving from Mesa's sprawling, single-story homes with swimming pools to Chicago's diverse, historically rich Greystones and Bungalows presents a significant lifestyle change. In Chicago, your daily commute could be simplified with extensive public transit options, an aspect that's reflected in real estate listings emphasizing proximity to metro and bus lines. The higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores in Chicago mean you're likely to find neighborhoods buzzing with cafes, theaters, and parks within walking distance, contrasting with Mesa's car-dependent, suburban feel. Remember, higher density living in Chicago might mean swapping your spacious backyard for lake views and communal green spaces, embracing the urban tapestry that threads through this bustling city.

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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 Mesa to Chicago

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather will differ from what you're accustomed to. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather differences between Mesa, AZ, and Chicago, IL to prepare you for your relocation. Knowing what to expect can help you adapt more comfortably to your new environment.

Summer icon
104°F / 77°F

Mesa, AZ

85°F / 65°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
67°F / 46°F

Mesa, AZ

35°F / 22°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
9

Mesa, AZ

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Mesa, AZ

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Relocating from Mesa to Chicago means preparing for significant changes in weather. You'll experience far more humid summers in Chicago, coupled with colder winters that include snow - a stark contrast to Mesa's mostly dry heat. The substantial difference in sunshine days could affect your daily lifestyle and perhaps even your mood. Adjusting from Mesa's moderate air quality to Chicago's generally good air quality could be a positive change for your respiratory health. Being aware of seasonal changes, especially the dramatic increase in snowfall and rainfall, will be essential in planning your outdoor activities and overall lifestyle adjustments in Chicago.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it’s crucial to weigh the financial implications. This comparison aims to elucidate how the cost of living and key financial metrics between Mesa and Chicago might impact your budget and lifestyle. By understanding these differences, you can make an informed decision on whether the move aligns with your financial goals.

Moving from Mesa to Chicago, you'll notice several key financial differences. While the average household income in Mesa appears higher, Chicago's cost of living is also significantly steeper, driven by factors such as property taxes and sales taxes. However, Chicago offers a diverse economic landscape with thriving finance, insurance, and manufacturing sectors which could provide ample employment opportunities. Additionally, Mesa boasts a more moderate affluence level and lower poverty rates compared to Chicago's varied economic standings and higher poverty levels. These insights are crucial in understanding what lifestyle adjustments may be necessary following your move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Mesa, AZ and Chicago, IL

When relocating from Mesa, AZ to Chicago, IL, understanding the local dynamics is key to a smooth transition. This guide provides a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Mesa & Chicago , offering a quick glimpse into the communities you're moving from and to.

MesaChicago

Political Make-up

Lean conservativeLean liberal

Local Politics

City Council-focusedMayoral system with significant influence

Religion

Significant LDS presenceDiverse, with significant Catholic presence

In detail, while Mesa's political landscape generally leans conservative, you'll find Chicago tilting more toward the liberal side, which might influence your interaction with local policies and community initiatives. Mesa operates under a city council-focused government, offering a distinct contrast to Chicago’s strong mayoral system, where the mayor often wields considerable influence. Furthermore, Mesa's religious makeup is noteworthy for its significant LDS (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) community, a sharp contrast to Chicago's religious diversity, albeit with a prominent Catholic community. Navigating these differences will be key to confidently settling into your new home.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Mesa to Chicago

Moving from one city to another can be a significant transition, especially when it comes to commuting. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Mesa & Chicago, helping you better understand what your daily commute and traffic will be like in these vastly different urban environments.

MesaChicago
2534

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

38

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

NoYes

Can you get by without car?

While Mesa offers a relatively light commute with lower traffic congestion, it lacks the extensive public transit options found in Chicago, implying a greater reliance on personal vehicles. On the other hand, Chicago's higher public transit score and the feasibility of living without a car highlight its efficient transportation network, including the L train and bus services, which significantly ease the longer average daily commute. This shift from Mesa to Chicago will likely change your daily transportation mode, offering a mix of opportunities and adjustments to your routine.

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