Moving from Miami to Chicago?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Miami to Chicago Movers

Moving from the sun-drenched shores of Miami, FL to the bustling streets of Chicago, IL is an adventure that marks a thrilling chapter in your life. You're trading the vibrant, Latin-inspired rhythms and endless summer of "The Magic City" for the architectural marvels and deep-dish pizzas of "The Windy City." Recognizing the importance of a smooth transition in such a long-distance move, we stress the need for hiring trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your journey from one iconic city to another is as seamless as possible.

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

5 Best Miami to Chicago Movers

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

#1
Easy Florida Moving LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,064+ data points

Location DotHallandale Beach, FL
GearLong Distance Relocation, Local Moving, Long Distance Moving (in State) See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3064335 Verify

About Easy Florida Moving LLC

Easy Florida Moving LLC is a licensed and insured full-service moving company based in South Florida. Established in 2017, the company provi...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in vero beach 2023 easy florida moving llc image
top 10 ranked movers in miami gardens 2022 easy florida moving llc image
#2
Our Family Moving and Storage LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,112+ data points

Location DotHollywood, FL
GearResidential Moving, Commercial Moving, Local Moves See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3374772 Verify

About Our Family Moving and Storage LLC

Based in Hollywood, FL, Our Family Moving and Storage is a local and family-owned moving business specializing in local and long-distance mo...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in miami 2023 our family moving and storage llc image
top 10 ranked movers in miami 2022 our family moving and storage llc image
#3
Dixie Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,045+ data points

Location DotHallandale Beach, FL
GearLocal moving services, Long distance moving services, Commercial moving services
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3080327 Verify

About Dixie Movers

When it was founded in 2015, Dixie Movers handpicked all of the good things about the moving industry and left out all of the bad. It runs i...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in miami 2023 dixie movers image
top ranked movers in miami 2022 dixie movers image
#4
606 Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,152+ data points

Location DotChicago, IL
GearResidential Movers, Commercial Movers, Packing & Unpacking Services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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
top 10 ranked movers in park forest 2022 606 movers inc image
#5
Move-tastic! Logo
Exceptional

based on 10,649+ data points

Location DotChicago, IL
GearFull Moves, Truck Loading and Unloading, Interstate Moving Assistance See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 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

Relocating from Miami to Chicago Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into the unknown, but finding a neighborhood that feels familiar can make the transition easier. To help you in this journey, we'll compare popular neighborhoods in Miami, FL & Chicago, IL to showcase their closest equivalents. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant nightlife, artistic communities, or quiet streets, you'll find a piece of Miami in Chicago.

MiamiChicago
Coconut GroveAndersonville

Eclectic, tight-knit community vibe

BrickellThe Loop

High-rise living, heart of business

WynwoodWicker Park

Artsy, with vibrant street murals

Miami BeachLakeview

Proximity to water, bustling nightlife

Coral GablesLincoln Park

Historic homes, lush greenery

Design DistrictWest Loop

Hub for fashion and design

Little HavanaPilsen

Rich cultural heritage, vibrant food scene

Key BiscayneRogers Park

Tranquil, with access to water

MidtownFulton Market

Trendy eateries, urban vibe

South MiamiHyde Park

Academic atmosphere, community focus

If the artsy vibe and vibrant street art of Wynwood are what you love, Wicker Park in Chicago will resonate with you with its creative energy and mural-adorned streets. For those accustomed to the relaxed yet upscale atmosphere of Coconut Grove, Andersonville's eclectic and welcoming community is a perfect match, offering unique shops and a strong sense of camaraderie among residents. And if the beachside charm and animated nightlife of Miami Beach are what you'll miss, Lakeview in Chicago provides a similar proximity to water and a bustling social scene, with landmarks like Wrigley Field adding to its allure. In each of these comparisons lies a promise of finding a new home without leaving behind what you loved most about your old one.

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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 Miami to Chicago

Moving from Miami, FL to Chicago, IL illuminates a spectrum of lifestyle changes. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, juxtaposing the attributes of both cities to give you a clearer picture of what awaits.

CONs
PROs
Miami, FL iconMiami, FL
  • High humidity
  • Hurricane risk
  • Cost of living
  • Less public transit
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Seasonal variety
  • Lower natural disaster risk
  • More affordable housing
  • Better public transit
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Colder winters
  • No beaches
  • Different food scene
  • Seasonal changes
Miami, FL iconMiami, FL
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Beaches
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Year-round warmth

Moving from Miami's sun-drenched beaches and vibrant nightlife to the culturally rich and architecturally historic city of Chicago offers a dramatic change of scenery. In Chicago, you'll experience a delightful seasonal variety, from the blooming flowers of Millennium Park in spring to the picturesque snow at Millennium Park Ice Skating Rink in winter. Despite the loss of year-round warmth, Chicago's renowned food scene, represented by establishments like Au Cheval Diner for their world-class burgers, offers comfort during the colder months. Whether you're exploring the lush landscapes of Lincoln Park or indulging in the arts at The Art Institute of Chicago, the city's efficient public transit system makes it easy to experience all that Chicago has to offer.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Miami to Chicago

Understanding local cuisine is key to experiencing a city's culture. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Miami & Chicago, helping you navigate the culinary scene of your new home with ease.

MiamiChicago

Most iconic local food item

Cubano Sandwich
Deep Dish Pizza

Most popular meat dish

Ropa Vieja
Italian Beef

Most popular street food item

Churros
Hot Dogs

Most popular vegan food

Guava & Cheese Pastelitos (Vegan Version)
Seitan Wings

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Versailles Restaurant
  • Joe's Stone Crab
  • Zak the Baker

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

8
7

Abundance of Food Trucks

7
6

Foodie Scene

9
8

Vegan Friendly

8
7

Miami's food scene is vibrant, with the Versailles Restaurant in Little Havana serving as a landmark for Cuban cuisine. Churros and Cubano sandwiches feed the colorful street food scene. On the flip side, Chicago's love for deep-dish pizza shines at places like Lou Malnati's, while the Italian beef sandwich remains a local staple. The Windy City's food trucks and restaurants, such as Portillo's, cater to a crowd that appreciates both innovation and tradition in its food culture. Moving to either city will be an exciting culinary adventure, with plenty of options to explore, whether you're vegan, a meat lover, or somewhere in between.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Miami to Chicago

Understanding the importance of dining options is key when relocating. Food often makes a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Miami and Chicago will help guide you in finding new favorite spots that reminisce the essence of your current Miami favorites.

Joe’s Stone CrabShaw's Crab House

Classic seafood experience capturing the essence of coastal dining

ZumaMomotaro

Japanese cuisine with a modern twist and aesthetic surroundings

Versailles90 Miles Cuban Café

Authentic Cuban dining experience in a casual setting

Mandolin Aegean BistroThe Greek Islands

Traditional Greek dining with a homely feel

Yardbird Southern Table & BarBig Jones

Southern comfort food with a focus on sustainability and tradition

The Surf Club RestaurantAba

Mediterranean style and ambiance with emphasis on seafood and steak

Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish MarketGT Fish & Oyster

Fresh seafood with an innovative menu and waterfront vibes

El Palacio de los JugosCafecito

Burst of Cuban flavors in a quick-service setting

MacchialinaSpiaggia

Elegant Italian dining with a modern approach

KYUGirl & The Goat

Inventive small plates with eclectic global influences

Exploring these culinary parallels will seamless transition your gastronomic experiences from the vibrant streets of Miami to the bustling avenues of Chicago. For example, the transition from the iconic Joe’s Stone Crab to Shaw's Crab House ensures that the love for exquisite seafood remains uninterrupted. The vibrant Cuban culture present in Miami through Versailles finds a comforting echo in Chicago’s 90 Miles Cuban Café, ensuring your palate never misses the flavors of home. Similarly, the modern Japanese fare at Zuma is mirrored by Momotaro in Chicago, where the sophistication and culinary innovation continue to thrive. Venturing into these establishments will not just satiate your cravings but also weave you into the fabric of your new city, one meal at a time.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Miami to Chicago

Real estate significantly influences making the jump from one city to another. It's crucial to understand how Miami and Chicago stack up in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle to make an informed decision for your move. Below, we offer a comparison that highlights these essential differences.

Miami and Chicago offer distinct living experiences shaped by their unique environments and cultures. The sun-soaked shores of Miami Beach contrast with the urban allure of downtown Chicago, with their architecture reflecting such differences—Miami's vibrant Art Deco and Mediterranean styles versus Chicago's historical Prairie and iconic Chicago School. These architectural distinctions are not just aesthetic but influence the lifestyle, from the balmy, outdoor-centric life in Miami to Chicago's urban, community-oriented atmosphere. Moreover, the higher urban lifestyle rating in Chicago is indicative of a more densely packed cityscape, offering a tapestry of cultural, dining, and entertainment options more concentrated than Miami's sprawling layout.

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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 Miami to Chicago

When planning a move, understanding how the weather in Miami compares to Chicago is crucial. This comparison will help you grasp the climatic changes to expect, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new surroundings.

Summer icon
88°F / 77°F

Miami, FL

83°F / 63°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
76°F / 60°F

Miami, FL

32°F / 18°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
61.9

Miami, FL

36.89

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Miami, FL

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

As you can see, moving from Miami to Chicago will bring significant weather changes. Miami's warm, humid climate with plenty of sunshine contrasts sharply with Chicago's colder, more variable conditions, where winters can be harsh, and snow is common. Preparing for Chicago's winter requires a wardrobe update, with heavy coats and boots becoming essentials. Additionally, the different types of natural disasters and seasonal allergies in Chicago may necessitate adjustments in your emergency preparedness and healthcare considerations.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how your finances might be affected. This comparison focuses on the financial implications of relocating from Miami, FL to Chicago, IL, covering key economic aspects to help you understand what to expect.

The cost of living in Chicago is notably lower than in Miami, primarily due to Miami's higher housing and living expenses. However, relocating to Chicago brings new financial considerations, such as the state income tax, which Florida does not have. Despite these differences, both cities exhibit significant affluence alongside noticeable poverty and homelessness rates. Factor in Chicago's higher property and sales taxes, but also consider the diverse job opportunities in sectors like finance and manufacturing that may balance these costs. Your financial planning should recognize these contrasts to make the most informed decision.

Political & Religious Comparison between Miami, FL and Chicago, IL

Relocating? This comparison of the politics between Miami & Chicago offers a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of each city. It helps you understand the community you’re moving into or out of at a glance.

MiamiChicago

Political Make-up

Leans Democratic, with a strong Republican presenceStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Significant focus on issues related to immigration and climateEmphasizes social justice, policing, and education reforms

Religion

High Catholic population with a mix of other Christian denominations and religionsDiverse religious landscape including Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, and others

Moving from Miami to Chicago, you will experience a shift not only in climate but also in the political and religious landscapes. Miami's political scene is notably balanced, with discussions often centered around immigration and climate issues pertinent to its geolocation. On the other hand, Chicago's political climate is predominantly Democratic, where social justice, policing reforms, and education are at the forefront of local politics. Religiously, both cities boast a diverse mix, but you'll find a wider variety of religious institutions in Chicago, from Saint Clement Church to the Chicago Islamic Center, reflecting its rich cultural diversity. Embracing these differences can enrich your relocation experience significantly.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Miami to Chicago

This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Miami & Chicago is designed to help you grasp what daily commutes and navigating the cities could be like after your move. Whether driving or utilizing public transit, understanding these dynamics is crucial for a smooth transition.

MiamiChicago
2934

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

77.5

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

58

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingEasier

Can you get by without car?

In Miami, while you might find the average commute time slightly more bearable, the city’s reliance on cars due to less robust public transit options makes living without one quite challenging. Conversely, Chicago’s well-developed public transportation network, including the extensive Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) services, makes it considerably easier to navigate the city without a car. Though both cities experience significant traffic congestion, with Chicago marginally higher, the difference in public transit availability marks a notable contrast in the ease of daily commutes.

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