Best Chicago to Anchorage Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the bustling Windy City to the ruggedly beautiful City of Lights and Flowers is an adventure that promises new experiences and opportunities. Leaving behind Chicago's iconic skyline and deep-dish pizza for Anchorage's breathtaking landscapes and wildlife offers a thrilling life change. It's crucial to ensure this significant transition goes smoothly by hiring trusted and reliable professional movers, and that's where we step in, offering you the best options to make your journey as seamless as possible.
Best Chicago to Anchorage Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Anchorage to Chicago guide.
5 Best Chicago to Anchorage Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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
This listing has been claimed by H2H Movers IncAbout H2H Movers Inc
Are you looking to move places but are worried about the cost? Then, H2H Movers might be the best choice for you. This moving company provid...Read More >>
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
About The Moving Man
The Moving Man is a family-owned and operated full-service moving company based in Anchorage, Alaska since 1992. Their service area includes...Read More >>
Services
- Local Residential Moving
- Local Commercial Moving
- Out-of-State Moves
About Air Van Moving
Air Van Moving is a professional moving company that is based in Alaska and the Northwest. Whether it is across town, across the country, or...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
- Long-Distance Moves
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.
Chicago vs. Anchorage Neighborhood Comparison
Moving across country can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new city. To ease the transition, we've created a comparison to help you familiarize yourself with Anchorage, AK by using Chicago, IL as a baseline . By comparing popular neighborhoods from Chicago to their closest equivalents in Anchorage, you'll get a sense of where you might feel most at home.
| Chicago | Anchorage | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Rogers Park | Vibrant, diverse community |
| Wicker Park | Spenard | Artsy, with local businesses |
| The Loop | Downtown Anchorage | Business hub, cultural activities |
| Gold Coast | South Addition | Upscale, near downtown |
| River North | Bootleggers Cove | Modern, waterfront living |
| Logan Square | Turnagain | Family-friendly, spacious parks |
| Hyde Park | Bear Valley | Quiet, scenic with outdoor options |
| Andersonville | Hillside East | Tight-knit community feel |
| Lakeview | Government Hill | Residential, with views |
| Old Town | Oceanview | Historical charm, ocean proximity |
For those moving from Chicago's vibrant Wicker Park, known for its bustling nightlife and arts scene, you'll find Spenard in Anchorage offers a similar creative spirit. This neighborhood is filled with eclectic shops, music venues, and local eateries like The Rustic Goat. Meanwhile, if the upscale and historic vibe of Gold Coast appeals to you, South Addition in Anchorage will charm you with its luxurious homes and proximity to downtown amenities, including easy access to trails and coastal views. Turnagain, comparable to Logan Square, features family-friendly parks such as Kincaid Park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who also cherish community spirit.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Anchorage
Moving from Chicago, IL, to Anchorage, AK, encompasses more than just a change of scenery. It's a lifestyle adjustment that comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. This guide aims to provide a balanced view, comparing the cons of Chicago, IL, with the pros of Anchorage, AK, and vice versa to help you make an informed decision about this significant transition.
Chicago, IL- High Crime Rate
- Heavy Traffic
- Cold Windy Winters
- Higher Cost of Living
Anchorage, AK- Lower Crime Rate
- Less Traffic
- Snowy Scenic Winters
- More Affordable Housing
Anchorage, AK- Quieter Nightlife
- Less Culinary Diversity
- Limited Public Transit
- Fewer Cultural Attractions
Chicago, IL- Vibrant Nightlife
- Diverse Culinary Scene
- Extensive Public Transit
- Abundant Cultural Attractions
While Chicago boasts a vibrant nightlife and an incredibly diverse culinary scene featuring everything from deep-dish pizza to Michelin-starred restaurants, Anchorage offers a more laid-back lifestyle. You might miss the hustle and bustle of Chicago's streets and the convenience of the L train, but Anchorage compensates with stunning scenic views, access to outdoor activities right at your doorstep, and a sense of community you'll find in neighborhoods like Hillside and South Addition. Here, restaurants like Simon & Seafort's offer fresh, locally sourced seafood with views of the majestic Cook Inlet, providing a unique dining experience that you'd be hard-pressed to find in the Windy City.
Chicago vs. Anchorage Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Anchorage explores the vibrant food scenes of both cities. Food is a pivotal aspect of local culture, shaping daily life and experiences. This guide aims to offer insights into what you can expect from each location as you make your transition.
| Chicago | Anchorage | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | King Crab |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Reindeer Sausage |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dog | Halibut Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Chicago-style Vegan Pizza | Wild Berry Cobbler |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Chicago and Anchorage both offer unique culinary delights reflective of their geographical and cultural diversity. In Chicago, neighborhoods like Wicker Park and The Loop are hotspots for food enthusiasts, showcasing iconic dishes like deep dish pizza and Italian beef. Meanwhile, Anchorage brings a taste of Alaskan wilderness to the table with fresh seafood like king crab and innovative dishes like reindeer sausage, best enjoyed in areas like Downtown or the Spenard neighborhood. Both cities cater to a range of tastes and dietary preferences, making them exciting places for foodies relocating from one city to the other.
Chicago vs. Anchorage Restaurant Comparison
Finding your next go-to dining spot is essential when making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Chicago and Anchorage will guide you in discovering restaurants that resonate with your palate, ensuring a smoother transition to your new locale.
| Chicago | Anchorage | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Marx Bros. Cafe | Fine dining and innovative cuisine |
| Giordano’s | Mooses Tooth Pub & Pizzeria | Famous for deep-dish pizzas |
| Girl & The Goat | Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill | Eclectic and upscale dining |
| Portillo's Hot Dogs | Tommy's Burger Stop | Famed for burgers and casual eats |
| The Purple Pig | Glacier Brewhouse | Known for hearty meals and brews |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Club Paris | Best for steak and seafood dishes |
| Publican | Spenard Roadhouse | Comfort food with a modern twist |
| Roister | Jens' Restaurant | Offers a fusion of new American and European fare |
| Smoque BBQ | Turnagain Arm Pit BBQ | Authentic barbecue experience |
| Pequod's Pizza | Uncle Joe's Pizzeria | Local favorite for pizza lovers |
For those who cherish the gastronomic adventure that Chicago offers, from the renowned deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s to the innovative dining experience at Alinea, moving to Anchorage doesn't mean you have to compromise on culinary excellence. Anchorage's own Marx Bros. Cafe parallels Alinea with its inventive dishes that push the boundaries of traditional cuisine. Likewise, Mooses Tooth Pub & Pizzeria captures the spirit and taste of Chicago’s beloved deep-dish pizzas. Both cities offer unique food experiences that cater to the food enthusiast in you, making it easier to feel at home whether you're craving a gourmet meal or a hearty, casual dish.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Anchorage Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, comparing real estate aspects between Chicago, IL and Anchorage, AK is crucial for a seamless transition. This comparison encompasses vital factors like cost, lifestyle, and accessibility to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Chicago | Anchorage |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Historic Blend | Rustic and Contemporary |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, proximity to parks | Mountain views, ample outdoor space |
Chicago’s real estate market is renowned for its wide variety of architecture, blending the historic with the modern. The city’s higher walkability and bikeability scores highlight a more urban lifestyle, with many listings boasting lake views or proximity to lush parks. On the other hand, Anchorage presents a more rustic and contemporary architectural style, reflecting its natural landscapes. Homes here are often mentioned alongside their stunning mountain views or ample outdoor space, catering to a lifestyle that's more in tune with nature. While the cost of buying a home is higher in Anchorage, the average monthly rent is surprisingly more affordable than in Chicago. These elements together provide a deeper insight into what life may look like in your new home city, depending on your priorities and lifestyle preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Anchorage, AK
1. South Addition: Known for its quiet streets and proximity to Delaney Park Strip, giving your pets a sprawling green space for daily walks and exercise.
2. Turnagain: Offers easy access to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail where you and your pet can enjoy breathtaking views of Cook Inlet and encounter wildlife, perfect for active pets.
3. Rogers Park: This neighborhood is a peaceful area with a strong community vibe and several nearby dog parks, making it great for socializing your pets and meeting fellow pet owners.
Chicago vs. Anchorage Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Chicago, IL to Anchorage, AK, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares between these two cities. Knowing the differences will help you prepare for what lies ahead and ensure a smoother transition to your new environment.
Chicago, IL
Anchorage, AK
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Anchorage, AK
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Anchorage, AK
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Anchorage, AK
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Anchorage |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Earthquakes, Avalanches |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The climate in Anchorage offers cooler summers and slightly colder winters compared to Chicago. Anchorage experiences fewer days of sunshine annually, which is something to consider if you enjoy sunny days. Despite a higher average humidity, Anchorage has better air quality and significantly more snowfall, highlighting a need for readiness during the winter. Meanwhile, both cities face their unique sets of natural disasters, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for local environmental challenges.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Anchorage
When planning a move, understanding the financial landscape of your new city is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on key economic differences between Chicago, IL, and Anchorage, AK. It will help you gauge how your cost of living, income, and taxation may change, enhancing your preparation for the transition.
| Comparison | Chicago | Anchorage |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $86,654 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 128.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.10 | 1.18 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Oil, Tourism, Fishing |
| Affluence | Medium | High |
| Poverty | Higher | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Anchorage, AK generally offers a higher average household income compared to Chicago, IL, which could be due to the absence of state income tax and lower average property taxes in Alaska. This difference in taxation policy significantly influences the net income of residents, allowing potentially more disposable income despite Anchorage's higher cost of living index. The predominant industries between the two cities vary widely, with Anchorage's economy heavily leaning on oil, tourism, and fishing, which may offer unique employment opportunities compared to Chicago's finance, insurance, and manufacturing sectors. Understanding these economic and industrial context will help you better prepare for life in Anchorage.
Chicago vs. Anchorage Political & Religious Comparison
This brief comparison aims to offer a quick, yet comprehensive snapshot of the differences in the political and religious makeup between Chicago & Anchorage. Understanding these aspects could play a crucial role in your transition, impacting your social and community interactions.
| Chicago | Anchorage | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Moderate, with a mix of Republican and Democratic support |
| Local Politics | Focused on urban issues, gun control, and education | Diverse, with emphasis on environmental policies and local development |
| Religion | Diverse; Catholic and Protestant Christianity predominant | Diverse; includes Christianity, Buddhism, and indigenous beliefs |
In moving from Chicago to Anchorage, you'll find a diverse political landscape. While Chicago is known for its Democratic leanings, Anchorage presents a more moderate political environment where both major parties find support. This could mean a fresh perspective on national issues and an opportunity to engage in local politics with a focus on environmental conservation—a significant departure from Chicago's urban-centric issues. The religious makeup in both cities is varied, but Anchorage offers a unique blend, including indigenous spiritual practices that reflect Alaska's rich cultural heritage. Embracing these differences can enrich your understanding and appreciation of your new home.
Chicago vs. Anchorage Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Anchorage designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. Moving cities can be challenging, but understanding these differences eases the transition, especially when it comes to getting around your new home.
| Comparison | Chicago | Anchorage |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.4 | 19.5 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
In Chicago, the public transit system is robust, offering various options like buses and the Chicago Transit Authority's "L" trains, making it quite feasible to navigate the city without a car. This contrasts with Anchorage, where public transit options are significantly more limited, and having a car becomes almost necessary to efficiently move around. While Chicago's longer average commute time reflects its larger population and denser urban environment, Anchorage offers a quicker commute due to less congestion. However, the dramatic difference in traffic congestion levels reflects not only the population density but also the infrastructure and size of each city.
Popular Chicago, IL to Alaska Moving Routes
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