Best Chicago to Phoenix Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Windy City to the Valley of the Sun is not just a change of address; it's an adventurous leap into a new chapter of your life. Chicago, known for its bustling streets and deep-dish pizza, contrasts sharply with Phoenix's sprawling landscapes and year-round sunshine. In navigating this long-distance move, the importance of choosing reliable and trusted professional movers cannot be overstated. We at Great Guys Moving utilize an unbiased ranking algorithm to ensure you're matched with the best movers for a seamless transition.
Best Chicago to Phoenix Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.75 | 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 |
| A1 Movers, Inc | 9.33 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.32 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Phoenix to Chicago guide.
5 Best Chicago to Phoenix Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
This listing has been claimed by Sterling Interstate LLCAbout 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 >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
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 A1 Movers, Inc
A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company offers ...Read More >>
Services
- LOCAL MOVES
- LONG DISTANCE MOVES
- PACKING SERVICES
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 >>
Services
- Long Distance Moves
- Local Moves
- Business Relocation
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. Phoenix Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially when it takes you to an entirely new city landscape. To ease this transition, we've crafted a guide that allows you to familiarize yourself with your new home by comparing local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Phoenix, AZ . Discover which Phoenix neighborhood mirrors your Chicago favorite, making your move a little more like coming home.
| Chicago | Phoenix | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Wicker Park | Roosevelt Row | Vibrant arts scene and trendy eateries |
| Lincoln Park | North Central Phoenix | Abundant green spaces and family-friendly vibe |
| Gold Coast | Paradise Valley | Luxurious homes and upscale dining |
| West Loop | Downtown Phoenix | Bustling with top restaurants and nightlife |
| Logan Square | Coronado | Historic homes with a sense of community |
| Lakeview | Encanto | Diverse with cultural attractions and quaint neighborhoods |
| The Loop | Tempe | Urban and vibrant, with a strong business district |
| River North | Old Town Scottsdale | Rich in arts and entertainment options |
| Hyde Park | Ahwatukee Foothills | Quiet residential area with a strong sense of community |
| Andersonville | Arcadia | Known for well-kept homes and local restaurants |
In Chicago's Wicker Park, the streets come alive with bustling cafes, art galleries, and music venues, reminiscent of Phoenix's Roosevelt Row where bohemian vibes meet craft coffee shops and urban art. Lincoln Park's lush expanses and zoo echo in North Central Phoenix, boasting its own collection of parks and recreational areas perfect for sunny days out. For those drawn to the upscale lifestyle of the Gold Coast, Paradise Valley in Phoenix offers a similar slice of luxury with its elegant estates and refined dining experiences. Finally, Logan Square and Phoenix's Coronado neighborhood both celebrate historic architecture and tight-knit communities, where block parties and front porch conversations are the norms. Whether it's enjoying a show at the Phoenix Theatre resembling the vibrant arts scene in Roosevelt Row or savoring a meal at Chelsea’s Kitchen in Arcadia, reminiscent of Andersonville’s quaint eateries, each neighborhood in Phoenix has a unique charm that echoes beloved Chicago locales.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Phoenix
Moving from Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ presents a unique opportunity to reflect upon what you’re leaving behind and what awaits. This comparison digs into both sides, showing the cons of leaving Chicago for the benefits of Phoenix, and vice versa—a transparent look at how your quality of life might change.
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Dense population
Phoenix, AZ- Warm, sunny climate
- More affordable housing
- Less congestion
- More space
Phoenix, AZ- Less city vibrancy
- Smaller cultural scene
- Car-dependent
- Fewer global cuisines
Chicago, IL- Vibrant city life
- Rich cultural scene
- Extensive public transit
- Diverse culinary options
While moving from Chicago to Phoenix might mean saying goodbye to the bustling streets of Wicker Park and dining out at renowned restaurants like Au Cheval, it also opens up a new chapter of exploring the vast landscapes of Arizona, from hiking in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve to sunsets at Papago Park. Phoenix, albeit having a smaller cultural scene, boasts its unique southwestern charm with attractions like the Heard Museum, noted for its dedication to the advancement of American Indian art. You'll notice the shift from a reliance on Chicago's extensive public transportation system to navigating the expansive, car-dependent roads of Phoenix—adjusting to a more spacious but less walkable environment. Nonetheless, Phoenix offers a vibrant lifestyle with a plethora of outdoor activities, possibly making it a refreshing change if you're seeking warmth and a more laid-back atmosphere.
Chicago vs. Phoenix Food Guide
Understanding the local food scene is crucial when moving to a new city, as food is an integral part of local culture and daily life. In this guide, we'll embark on a flavorful journey to compare the local cuisine between Chicago & Phoenix , allowing you to get a taste of what each city offers and making your transition smoother.
| Chicago | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | Sonoran Hot Dog |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dog | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When relocating from Chicago to Phoenix, you'll notice a significant shift in the local food landscape. Chicago's claim to fame, deep-dish pizza, can be savored at iconic spots like Lou Malnati's, while Phoenix offers a unique twist with the Sonoran Hot Dog, a must-try at many local eateries. The streets of Chicago are renowned for their hot dogs and Italian beef, showcasing the city's love for savory, meaty dishes. Phoenix, however, leans into the rich flavors of the Southwest, with carne asada and tacos found in vibrant food scenes across neighborhoods like Roosevelt Row and downtown Phoenix. For the health-conscious and vegans, both cities cater well to these preferences, but you’ll find a distinctive array of options reflecting the local produce and cultural influences, such as jackfruit tacos in Phoenix’s vibrant vegan scene.
Chicago vs. Phoenix Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in the familiar flavors of your hometown can be a key part of making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Chicago and Phoenix is designed to help you discover your next favorite dining spots by aligning them with the ones you loved back in Chicago. Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual eats, or something uniquely iconic, this guide will serve as your culinary compass.
| Chicago | Phoenix | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Binkley's Restaurant | offers an equally innovative and high-end dining experience |
| Portillo's | Little Miss BBQ | renowned for its iconic dishes and local following, akin to Portillo's status in Chicago |
| Girl & The Goat | Tarbell's | known for its creative and eclectic menu, mirroring Girl & The Goat's approach |
| Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Pizzeria Bianco | widely celebrated for its craft pizzas that rival those from Lou Malnati's |
| The Purple Pig | Cibo | offers a cozy, artisanal eating experience, much like The Purple Pig's unique charm |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Steak 44 | known for its top-quality steaks and seafood, serving as a prime Phoenix alternative |
| Smoque BBQ | Bobby Q | provides a comparable devotion to smoked meats and homestyle sides |
| The Berghoff | Haus Murphy's | German cuisine that echoes The Berghoff's traditional offerings |
| Rainforest Cafe | Wildflower – though not a themed restaurant, it offers an engaging atmosphere with a diversified menu | Wildflower – though not a themed restaurant, it offers an engaging atmosphere with a diversified menu |
While Alinea in Chicago captivates with its avant-garde take on fine dining, Binkley's Restaurant in Phoenix promises an adventurous culinary journey of its own with a focus on Arizona's seasonal ingredients. And for those who savor the Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix stands as a beacon for pizza aficionados, offering a pie that is both respectful of tradition and innovative in approach. The transition from the familiar streets of Chicago to the sunny expanses of Phoenix doesn't mean leaving behind the culinary experiences you cherish. Instead, it presents an exciting opportunity to expand your palate and uncover new favorites that resonate with the essence of your old haunts.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Phoenix Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This guide compares housing aspects between Chicago, IL and Phoenix, AZ to help you make an informed decision. From costs and architecture to walkability and urban lifestyle , see how these cities stack up.
| Comparison | Chicago | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Gothic & Modern | Ranch & Pueblo Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, Proximity to public transit | Swimming pool, Outdoor living |
Chicago and Phoenix offer distinctly different living experiences. Chicago's higher walkability score reflects its dense urban fabric and robust public transportation system, making it easy to navigate the city without a car. The architecture in Chicago leans towards Gothic and modern styles, with many real estate listings boasting lake views and proximity to public transit. On the other hand, Phoenix’s architecture, featuring Ranch and Pueblo Revival styles, and real estate listings often highlight swimming pools and outdoor living spaces, catering to the city's hot climate and preference for indoor-outdoor living. This contrast in lifestyle and urban environment is essential to consider when deciding where your next home should be.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Phoenix, AZ
1. Midtown Phoenix: Known for its walkable streets and numerous pet-friendly patios, your furry friends will love the welcoming atmosphere and Rosie McCaffrey’s Irish Pub for a bite where pets are happily seen on the patio.
2. Arcadia: This neighborhood is a paradise for pets with spacious backyards and close proximity to Camelback Mountain for adventurous walks and hikes, making it perfect for active dogs.
3. Roosevelt Row: This artsy district not only welcomes pets in many galleries and cafes but also hosts pet-centric events like the annual Phoestivus market, making it an incredibly fun and engaging community for pet lovers.
Chicago vs. Phoenix Weather Considerations
Moving from one place to another requires adapting to new weather conditions. It's essential to understand how the weather differs between Chicago, IL and Phoenix, AZ to better prepare for your relocation.
Chicago, IL
Phoenix, AZ
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Phoenix, AZ
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Phoenix, AZ
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Phoenix, AZ
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate to Poor |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Severe Storms | Heatwaves, Dust Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Chicago to Phoenix, you'll experience drastic changes in weather. Chicago's climate includes cold winters with significant snowfall, while Phoenix offers warm winters and extremely hot summers, with a significantly higher number of sunny days. The dramatic decrease in humidity once you move to Phoenix will also be noticeable, potentially affecting skin and hydration. Preparing for the heat and sunshine in Phoenix involves more than stocking up on sunscreen; it also means adapting your lifestyle to avoid the peak sun hours during the scorching summer months.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Phoenix
Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your finances. It's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape in Chicago compares to what you're accustomed to and contrasts with the economic environment in Phoenix. This comparison aims to provide a clear financial picture to aid in your relocation decision.
| Comparison | Chicago | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $68,435 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 100.7 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 2.59 to 4.50 (graduated) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.10 | 0.62 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 8.6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Financial Services, Manufacturing, Information Technology | Healthcare, Retail, Technology |
| Affluence | More affluent | Moderately affluent |
| Poverty | Higher rate | Comparable |
| Homelessness | More visible | Less visible |
Understanding the financial and economic differences between Chicago and Phoenix is essential when considering a move. For instance, Chicago residents face a higher average property tax rate compared to Phoenix, which can affect long-term homeownership costs. Despite a potentially higher cost of living in Chicago, it also boasts a higher average household income. The labor markets differ as well, with Chicago having a strong base in Financial Services and Information Technology, while Phoenix's economy leans more towards Healthcare and Technology. Such insights can help you gauge not only the immediate financial differences but also how your career opportunities might evolve in your new home city.
Chicago vs. Phoenix Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Chicago to Phoenix? It's crucial to understand not just the climate and job market differences, but also the distinct community you'll be joining. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Chicago & Phoenix, helping you gauge the cultural shift you might experience.
| Chicago | Phoenix | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive tendencies | Mixed political views |
| Religion | Diverse, with a large Catholic presence | Diverse, with a significant non-affiliated population |
Both Chicago and Phoenix lean Democratic in terms of political makeup, though you'll find Phoenix presents a more mixed bag of political views owing to Arizona's purple state status. This blend could offer a different political climate from what you're accustomed to in Chicago. In terms of religion, Chicago's significant Catholic community contrasts with Phoenix's large number of residents who identify as non-affiliated, reflecting broader trends of religious affiliation in the United States. This shift in the religious landscape denotes a more pluralistic approach to spirituality in Phoenix.
Chicago vs. Phoenix Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chicago, IL to Phoenix, AZ introduces substantial changes in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Phoenix intends to prepare you for what lies ahead, helping you adjust efficiently to your new environment.
| Comparison | Chicago | Phoenix |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.4 | 25.9 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
While Chicago offers a robust public transit system, making it possible to get around without a car, Phoenix presents a different scenario where a car is almost a necessity due to its sprawling layout and less available public transit. The average commute time in Phoenix is shorter than in Chicago, reflecting less traffic congestion. This means you'll likely spend less time in traffic moving to Phoenix. The transition requires an adjustment to potentially owning a car if you relied on public transit in Chicago.
Popular Chicago, IL to Arizona Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes
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