Best Orlando to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the sunlit avenues of Orlando, FL, to the bustling streets of Chicago, IL, is an adventure that promises new experiences and opportunities. While you might be swapping the laid-back vibes and endless summer of 'The City Beautiful' for the iconic skyline and vibrant neighborhoods of 'The Windy City', it's an exciting transition that beckons a fresh chapter. To ensure this pivotal journey unfolds smoothly, it's crucial to entrust your move to trusted and reliable professional movers, a task we take to heart by connecting you with the best in the business, thanks to our unbiased ranking algorithm.
Best Orlando to Chicago Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sebastian Moving and More | 9.71 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Move-tastic! | 9.35 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Orlando Express Movers Inc. | 8.92 | NR | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Two Men and a Truck | 8.68 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Orlando guide.
5 Best Orlando to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Sebastian Moving and More
Sebastian Moving has over 15 years of experience in the moving business. It will provide shrink wrapping, packing, crating, loading, unloadi...Read More >>
Services
- Full Service Moves in Orlando
- Air-Conditioned Storage
- Packing and Unpacking
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 Orlando Express Movers Inc.
Orlando Express Movers Inc. has been customizing full-service moves since 2008. This Orlando company emphasizes individual needs and unique ...Read More >>
Services
- Full-service residential moving
- Local and long-distance relocation
- Packing services
About Two Men and a Truck
As a globally recognized moving company, Two Men and a Truck is one of the most successful franchises in the industry. It has over 300 locat...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2951563 / FF-19080
999453 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 20 |
| Registered Drivers | 35 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 452,400 (2022) |
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.
Orlando vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a guide that compares local neighborhoods between Orlando, FL & Chicago, IL , using what you know as a baseline to discover your new favorite spots. This way, you can find a piece of Orlando in the bustling streets of Chicago.
| Orlando | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Baldwin Park | Lincoln Park | Family-friendly, green spaces |
| Winter Park | Wicker Park | Trendy, artsy vibe |
| Thornton Park | Old Town | Historic, vibrant nightlife |
| Dr. Phillips | Lincoln Square | Upscale, culinary scene |
| Lake Nona | Roscoe Village | Family-oriented, modern amenities |
| College Park | Andersonville | Diverse, local businesses |
| Maitland | Ravenswood | Quiet, community-focused |
| SoDo (South of Downtown) | South Loop | Urban, easy downtown access |
| Lake Eola Heights | Gold Coast | Historic, luxury living |
| Bay Hill | Streeterville | Exclusive, near water |
In transitioning from the sunny vistas of Orlando to the bustling streets of Chicago, finding neighborhoods that resonate with your lifestyle is crucial. Imagine swapping the scenic walks around Lake Baldwin for the vast greenery of Lincoln Park, where both the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Chicago History Museum await your exploration. Should you crave the artsy and vibrant atmosphere of Winter Park, Wicker Park in Chicago will charm you with its boutique shops, hip galleries, and the iconic 606 urban trail. For those drawn to the historic and nightlife-rich Thornton Park, Old Town offers a seamless blend of history and a lively social scene, complete with comedy clubs like The Second City. It’s about finding not just a house, but a community that feels like home, by connecting the familiar with the new.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Orlando to Chicago
Moving from one city to another brings both challenges and opportunities. In comparing Orlando, FL to Chicago, IL, this guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of such a relocation. Understanding both the pros and cons will help you make a more informed decision about this significant life change.
Orlando, FL- Humid weather
- Frequent hurricanes
- Theme park crowds
- Limited public transport
- Lower wage averages
Chicago, IL- Cooler summers
- Seasonal weather
- Diverse culture
- Extensive public transit
- Higher salary potentials
Chicago, IL- Higher living costs
- Cold winters
- Less outdoor diversity
- Far from beaches
- Faster pace of life
Orlando, FL- No state income tax
- Year-round warmth
- Abundant outdoor activities
- Proximity to beaches
- Casual lifestyle
Moving from Orlando to Chicago marks a significant lifestyle change, where the vibrant cityscape of Chicago offers a different pulse compared to the laid-back, sunny disposition of Orlando. Chicago’s extensive public transit system, for instance, means you can conveniently explore every corner of the city, from the historic Chicago Architecture Foundation tours in the Loop to the eclectic dining scene in neighborhoods like Logan Square and Wicker Park. Though Orlando's warm winters will be traded for Chicago's picturesque, albeit colder, snow-covered streets, you'll find the city's seasonal festivities, like the Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier, offer a charming new set of traditions to embrace. In terms of career opportunities, the economic landscape in Chicago is ripe with possibilities, significantly in the tech and financial sectors, providing ample room for professional growth.
Orlando vs. Chicago Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Orlando & Chicago to highlight how food significantly shapes the cultural and living experience of a location. Understanding the food scene gives you a taste of what life will be like in your new city.
| Orlando | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Gator Bites | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Cuban Sandwich | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Chicago-style Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Orlando, the culinary scene thrives on diversity, balancing traditional Florida staples like Gator Bites with a vibrant street food scene highlighted by delicious Tacos available across various neighborhoods, including the bustling streets of Downtown. Notably, The Edison and Kres Chophouse offer unique tastes of the city’s thriving culinary culture. Moving to Chicago, you'll be greeted by iconic foods such as the world-renowned Deep Dish Pizza, with Lou Malnati's Pizzeria standing as a must-visit. The city’s appreciation for hearty, comforting foods is evident through favorites like Italian Beef sandwiches and Chicago-style Hot Dogs, best enjoyed at staple establishments like Portillo's. Chicago's food scene, with its higher Foodie Scene rating, promises a rich exploration of flavors, especially for those with a fondness for the avant-garde in neighborhoods like West Loop’s Restaurant Row.
Orlando vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Relocating to a new city doesn't mean giving up on your favorite dining experiences. This comparison of Orlando's top eateries to their Chicago counterparts aims to ease your transition from Orlando to Chicago by matching your culinary preferences . Find your next favorite restaurant with ease and make your new city feel like home.
| Orlando | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Vic's Embers Supper Club | Alinea | High-end dining with innovative presentations |
| 4 Rivers Smokehouse | Smoque BBQ | Well-regarded for its mouth-watering smoked meats |
| The Ravenous Pig | Publican | Focus on farm-to-table gastropub fare |
| Hawkers Asian Street Fare | En Hakkore 2.0 | Provides a unique twist on Asian street food |
| Yellow Dog Eats | Big Star | Laid-back venue known for tacos and whiskey |
| Columbia Restaurant | Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! | Famous for its Spanish tapas |
| Kres Chophouse | Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | Iconic steaks in an upscale setting |
| Pig Floyd's Urban Barbakoa | Lillie's Q | Offers a modern take on Southern BBQ classics |
| Se7en Bites | Honey Butter Fried Chicken | Casual spot with a cult following for chicken |
| Domu | Ramen-san | Renowned for its creative ramen dishes |
When it's time to discover your new, favorite dining spot in Chicago, consider starting with these carefully matched alternatives. You might visit Alinea for a meal that turns dinner into an immersive experience, not unlike what you've come to love at Vic's Embers Supper Club in Orlando. Or, settle your BBQ cravings at Smoque BBQ, where the exceptional quality and dedication to the art of smoked meats could easily remind you of afternoons spent at 4 Rivers Smokehouse. The transition might seem daunting at first, but Chicago's vibrant culinary scene promises to offer familiar comforts and new favorites equally, ensuring your taste buds feel right at home.
Ready to start your move?
Orlando vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a relocation, understanding the real estate landscape of your new city is crucial. This comparison between Orlando and Chicago highlights key housing features. Knowing how housing costs, architectural styles, walkability, and lifestyle differ will smooth your transition.
| Comparison | Orlando | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern, Mediterranean | Brick Row House, Greystone |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake Access, Theme Parks Proximity | Lakefront Views, Proximity to Public Transit |
Orlando's housing market boasts a mix of modern and Mediterranean-style homes, typically emphasizing lake access and proximity to various theme parks. Meanwhile, Chicago's architecture, characterized by brick row houses and greystones, leans heavily into its urbanity, with many listings highlighting lakefront views and accessibility to public transit, making it a haven for those who value a more walkable and bike-friendly environment. This comparison underscores not just cost concerns, but the distinct lifestyle each city offers, tailored to either the leisurely pace and entertainment focus of Orlando or the vibrant urban culture and convenience of Chicago.
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.
Orlando vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Orlando, FL to Chicago, IL, understanding how the weather contrasts between these two cities is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how Orlando's warm, sunny climate compares with Chicago's more varied and seasonal weather, assisting you in preparing for your new environment.
Orlando, FL
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Orlando, FL
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Orlando, FL
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Orlando, FL
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Orlando | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate to Poor |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Orlando to Chicago, you'll notice significant changes, especially in winter. Chicago experiences cold, snowy winters, contrasting sharply with Orlando's mild ones. Orlando's higher average UV index and more sunny days per year mean you'll need to adjust your daily wear and skin care routine in Chicago, where sun exposure is less intense but winter gear becomes essential. Additionally, Chicago's variable air quality and higher potential for winter-related natural disasters, like blizzards, pose new considerations for your health and safety.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Orlando to Chicago
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscape you're stepping into. This comparison illuminates the economic differences between Orlando, Florida, and Chicago, Illinois, helping you gauge how your financial life may change. Understanding these variances in cost of living, taxes, and income potential is essential for a smooth transition.
| Comparison | Orlando | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $54,167 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 97.8 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 4.95% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.97% | 2.10% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.5% | 10.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Entertainment, Aerospace | Financial Services, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | moderate | high |
| Poverty | notable | significant |
| Homelessness | concerning | pressing |
The above table provides a snapshot of how your financial situation might shift when moving from Orlando to Chicago. You'll notice Chicago has a higher average household income, which can be appealing. However, it's accompanied by a higher cost of living and state income tax, absent in Florida. Property and sales taxes are also heftier in Chicago, which can eat into your budget. While both cities boast dynamic economies, Chicago's leading industries offer a diverse mix in financial services and technology, potentially opening up new career opportunities. Yet, both cities face their challenges with poverty and homelessness, highlighting the importance of understanding the local economic climate and its implications on daily life and social issues.
Orlando vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison of the politics and religious landscapes between Orlando & Chicago offers you a quick look at what to expect in terms of political leanings and religious communities in your new city.
| Orlando | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderately progressive | Very progressive |
| Religion | Mixed, with a strong Christian presence | Diverse, with significant Catholic and Protestant communities |
Compared to Orlando's moderately progressive stance, Chicago is known for its strong Democratic leanings and very progressive local politics. This difference reflects in various policies and local government actions. On the religious front, both cities boast a diverse makeup. While Orlando has a notable Christian community encompassing various denominations, Chicago showcases significant Catholic and Protestant communities, alongside a vibrant array of other religious beliefs. Understanding these differences will help you navigate and integrate into Chicago's rich cultural and political landscape as you make the city your new home.
Orlando vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another brings changes in the daily rhythm of life, especially when it comes to commuting. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Orlando & Chicago will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like, adjusting your expectations and planning accordingly.
| Comparison | Orlando | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
While Orlando offers a relatively smooth commute with an average time of 25 minutes, you'll find a notable dependence on personal vehicles due to less accessible public transit. Conversely, Chicago's average commute time is longer, at 34 minutes, indicative of its larger size and denser traffic. However, the Windy City excels in public transportation, rated 8 out of 10, making it feasible to live without a car. This stark contrast in public transit availability reflects the differing cityscapes; whereas Orlando sprawls with broad highways, Chicago's urban density is navigated through an extensive network of buses and trains, including the famous 'L' system. This infrastructure not only enables but encourages the shift from individual to shared modes of transport.
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