Moving from Chicago to St. Petersburg?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Chicago to St. Petersburg Movers

Moving from the Windy City to the Sunshine City isn't just a relocation; it's an inspiring adventure, offering a fresh start and a sunny lifestyle change. Swapping Chicago's towering skyscrapers and bustling streets for St. Petersburg's sandy beaches and vibrant arts scene might seem like leaving behind one iconic world for another, yet both cities boast a rich tapestry of food, neighborhoods, and culture to explore. In embarking on this long journey, selecting trusted and reliable professional movers becomes crucial, ensuring your belongings safely navigate the miles from your old home to your new horizon with ease. With our unbiased ranking algorithm, we take the guesswork out of finding the best movers, making your transition as smooth as possible.

Illinois iconArrow iconFlorida icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from St. Petersburg to Chicago guide.

5 Best Chicago to St. Petersburg Movers

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

#1
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
#2
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
#3
H2H Movers Inc Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 8,231+ data points

Location DotChicago, IL
GearLocal moves, Long distance moves, Commercial moves See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2428328 Verify

About 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 >>

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top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top ranked movers in chicago 2023 h2h movers inc image
#4
123 Moving Florida LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 225+ data points

Location DotClearwater, FL
GearCheap moving, Hourly moving, Small moving See More
Circle CheckNot Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/15/2021)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3017738 Verify

About 123 Moving Florida LLC

123 Moving Florida LLC is a moving company based in Florida, providing a range of moving services at various prices. They offer 1 mover wit...Read More >>

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#5
Let's Get Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,825+ data points

Location DotSt. Petersburg, FL
GearCommercial moving services, Residential moving services, Local moving services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2270761 Verify

About Let's Get Moving

This locally-owned moving company has been serving the St. Petersburg, FL, area since 2004. Let's Get Moving is a well-known Florida moving ...Read More >>

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Relocating from Chicago to St. Petersburg Neighborhood Guide

Moving from one city to another can be an overwhelming experience, but understanding your new locale through the lens of your current city can ease the transition. This guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & St. Petersburg, FL , focusing on matching the vibes, amenities, and community spirit to help you feel right at home from day one.

ChicagoSt. Petersburg
Lincoln ParkOld Northeast

Historic homes, community feel

Wicker ParkGrand Central District

Artsy, vibrant nightlife

The LoopDowntown St. Petersburg

Urban core, cultural hub

Hyde ParkKenadee Lake Park

Intellectual vibe, historic

Gold CoastSnell Isle

Luxurious, waterfront properties

LakeviewCrescent Heights

Lively, community-focused

Logan SquareRoser Park

Historic, green spaces

River NorthEdge District

Trendy, upscale shopping

AndersonvilleHistoric Kenwood

Quaint, rich culture

South LoopEuclid-St Paul

Family-friendly, historic charm

Chicago's diverse neighborhoods offer a tapestry of cultural, architectural, and community-focused experiences. For instance, if you're enamored by the lush parks and zoo in Lincoln Park, you'll find similar green space and community appeal in St. Petersburg's Old Northeast. This neighborhood is known for its historic homes and proximity to downtown, providing a seamless blend of tranquility and urban convenience. Wicker Park's dynamic arts scene and bustling nightlife find a counterpart in the Grand Central District, where galleries, boutiques, and craft breweries line the streets. Meanwhile, the architectural grandeur and upscale shopping of the Gold Coast are mirrored in Snell Isle, featuring waterfront properties and exclusive golf courses. Transitioning from one city to another doesn't mean leaving behind what you love about your current neighborhood; it's about discovering a new place with similar charms and possibilities.

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Things to Do in St. Petersburg

  • Explore The Dalí Museum.
  • Stroll through Sunken Gardens.
  • Sunbathe at St. Pete Beach.
  • Shop and dine at Sundial St. Pete.
  • Enjoy live jazz at The Palladium.
  • Rent kayaks at Weedon Island Preserve.
  • Visit Great Explorations Children's Museum.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to St. Petersburg

Moving cities is a significant life decision that requires a balance of understanding both the positives and negatives of the relocation. This side-by-side comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL . By examining the pros and cons, you can make an informed choice about your upcoming adventure.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Harsh winters
  • High cost of living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Higher crime rate
St. Petersburg, FL iconSt. Petersburg, FL
  • Milder winters
  • More affordable
  • Less congestion
  • Lower crime rate
St. Petersburg, FL iconSt. Petersburg, FL
  • Slower pace
  • More limited options
  • Fewer landmarks
  • Car dependent
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant city life
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Cultural landmarks
  • Extensive public transit

Moving from Chicago to St. Petersburg presents the opportunity for a life amidst milder winters and potentially a more relaxed pace. While you might miss the constant buzz and the diverse, world-class cuisine found in neighborhoods like the West Loop in Chicago, St. Petersburg offers its unique charm with gems such as the Dali Museum and the vibrant St. Pete Pier. Enjoying the outdoors becomes a year-round activity, with places like Fort De Soto Park offering beautiful scenery and the chance to explore nature. Even though St. Petersburg presents a smaller city vibe, its rapidly growing food scene, exemplified by spots like Bavaro's Pizza and eateries along Central Avenue, promises an up-and-coming variety for food lovers.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Chicago to St. Petersburg

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago, IL & St. Petersburg, FL. Understanding the food scene is vital as it's a significant part of local culture and living experience. This comparison aims to give you a better insight into what culinary delights await in your new city.

ChicagoSt. Petersburg

Most iconic local food item

Deep-dish pizza
Grouper sandwich

Most popular meat dish

Italian Beef
Cuban sandwich

Most popular street food item

Hot dog
Empanadas

Most popular vegan food

Seitan dishes
J ackfruit tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Alinea
  • Portillo's
  • Birch & Vine
  • Casual Clam
  • Bella Brava

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

7
8

Abundance of Food Trucks

6
8

Foodie Scene

9
8

Vegan Friendly

8
9

While Chicago is renowned for its hearty deep-dish pizzas and iconic Italian beef, St. Petersburg offers a lighter, coastal cuisine with specialties like the grouper sandwich. A wander through the streets of Chicago might tempt you with classic hot dogs, whereas in St. Petersburg, the vibrant flavors of empanadas are a popular choice. Vegan options abound in both cities, with seitan dishes popular in Chicago and jackfruit tacos a hit in St. Petersburg. Should you crave an immersive dining experience, Chicago's Alinea offers a cutting-edge gastronomy adventure, whereas St. Petersburg’s Birch & Vine provides an intimate setting with locally sourced ingredients. If health and fitness are your priority, you'll find both cities accommodating, but with its outdoor lifestyle, St. Petersburg slightly edges out. Food trucks, an essential element of urban culinary exploration, are more abundant in St. Petersburg, reflecting its vibrant street food scene. Both cities cater well to food enthusiasts and vegans, offering a variety of choices to satisfy all palates.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Chicago to St. Petersburg

When relocating from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL, discovering new favorite dining spots can transform a new city into home. This restaurant comparison will assist in seamlessly transitioning your palate by aligning Chicago culinary delights with their St. Petersburg counterparts.

AlineaIL Ritorno

An intimate setting offering modern Italian dishes, comparable to Alinea's high-end dining experience.

Giordano'sJoey Brooklyn's Famous Pizza Kitchen

Known for their deep-dish pizzas that rival the taste and comfort of Giordano's.

Girl & The GoatThe Mill Restaurant

Features inventive New American cuisine in a rustic, yet trendy, atmosphere similar to that of Girl & The Goat.

Portillo's Hot DogsEngine No. 9

Offers a variety of gourmet burgers and hot dogs that have the same beloved Chicago vibe.

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabSalt Rock Grill

Seafood and steaks grilled to perfection with an ambiance that echoes the fine dining of Joe's.

Smoque BBQUrban Brew and BBQ

Serves up authentic, slow-cooked barbecue that gives Smoque BBQ a run for its money.

The Purple PigThe Reading Room

Celebrates garden-to-table dishes in a cozy setting, reminiscent of The Purple Pig's approach to Mediterranean dining.

Rick Bayless's Frontera GrillRed Mesa Cantina

Delivers a fusion of traditional Mexican flavors in a lively atmosphere akin to Frontera Grill.

Au ChevalThe Avenue Eat + Drink

Famous for their burgers, lending a casual yet gourmet experience similar to that of Au Cheval.

Lou Malnati's PizzeriaToby's Original Little Italy Pizza

A spot that honors the traditional Chicago-style pizza, comparable to Lou Malnati's dedication to the craft.

For discerning food lovers making the move from Chicago to St. Petersburg, the culinary journey will be filled with delightful discoveries. At IL Ritorno, you'll encounter a sophisticated Italian dining experience that mirrors Alinea's innovation and attention to detail. Craving that unmistakable Chicago-style deep dish? Joey Brooklyn's Famous Pizza Kitchen offers a taste of home with its hearty, cheese-laden pies. And when in need of a cozy evening filled with rustic elegance and innovative dishes, The Mill Restaurant steps up with a menu and ambiance that might just remind you of Girl & The Goat. These gastronomic havens in St. Petersburg not only cater to your taste buds but also offer the warm comfort of familiar yet unique dining experiences, easing your transition to this vibrant new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Chicago to St. Petersburg

Real estate deeply influences the quality and ease of a move. Understanding how Chicago, IL and St. Petersburg, FL compare in terms of housing—covering aspects like cost, architecture, and livability—is crucial for making an informed decision about your relocation.

When comparing real estate in Chicago and St. Petersburg, you'll find nuanced differences that may influence your decision. For instance, while the median home prices are quite close, the prevalent architectural styles diverge, with Chicago favoring more modern and gothic influences versus St. Petersburg's preference for Spanish and Mediterranean designs. This could significantly impact your lifestyle, as the latter often features open, outdoor living spaces—ideal for Florida's warmer climate. Furthermore, Chicago's higher walkability and biking scores reflect its dense urban environment, providing easier access to amenities and work centers without relying heavily on personal vehicles. On the other hand, St. Petersburg offers a more laid-back urban lifestyle, with housing attributes highlighting waterfront properties and the importance of outdoor areas, underlining the city's use of its natural surroundings to enhance residents' living experience.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in St. Petersburg, FL

1. Old Northeast: This historic neighborhood is perfect for pet owners with its shaded sidewalks and the close proximity to North Shore Dog Park, where your furry friends can play off-leash.

2. Kenneth City: A small, tight-knit community with plenty of green spaces and a friendly atmosphere towards pets, including access to pet-friendly amenities and services like the Kenneth City Family Park.

3. Historic Kenwood: Known for its bungalow homes and artistic vibe, Historic Kenwood boasts a welcoming community for pet owners, featuring dog-friendly events and the nearby Kenwood Dog Park.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Chicago to St. Petersburg

When planning a move from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL, understanding the weather differences between these cities is crucial. This comparison highlights how your life will change in terms of weather experiences and prepares you for the climate adjustments you'll need to make. Let this guide help set your expectations for your new home.

Summer icon
85°F / 65°F

Chicago, IL

90°F / 76°F

St. Petersburg, FL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
32°F / 18°F

Chicago, IL

70°F / 54°F

St. Petersburg, FL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

50

St. Petersburg, FL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

0

St. Petersburg, FL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Comparing Chicago to St. Petersburg presents a tale of two climates. You'll bid goodbye to the harsh winters of Chicago, where snowy days and frigid temperatures dominate, and welcome the warm, sunny days of St. Petersburg. While Chicago offers a distinct four-season experience, St. Petersburg ensures more stable, year-round warmth but comes with its own set of challenges, such as the higher likelihood of hurricanes and thunderstorms. Additionally, the drastic increase in sunshine days in St. Petersburg can be a significant lifestyle change, promoting more outdoor activities and potentially affecting your daily health routines, like skincare due to the higher UV index.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to St. Petersburg

Moving from one location to another necessitates a holistic view of how your financial health will align. Comparing the cost of living, tax burdens, and economic landscapes between Chicago, IL and St. Petersburg, FL is essential to smoothing your transition and optimizing your budgeting choices.

Moving from Chicago, IL to St. Petersburg, FL, you'll notice significant financial changes beyond just the weather. Firstly, the absence of a state income tax in Florida provides a direct boost to your disposable income, a welcome change from Illinois's flat rate of 4.95%. Moreover, the cost of living in St. Petersburg is slightly lower, providing further financial relief. However, it's crucial to consider the average household income is also lower in St. Petersburg, which could offset some of the other financial benefits. Additionally, differences in sales and property taxes between the two cities can substantially affect your long-term financial planning, especially for homeowners. Furthermore, shifting from industries like finance and IT in Chicago to tourism and healthcare in St. Petersburg may necessitate career adjustments or opportunities for some.

Political & Religious Comparison between Chicago, IL and St. Petersburg, FL

This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the comparison of the politics between Chicago & St. Petersburg , focusing on the political and religious makeup of the residents. It's designed to help you understand the differences in community values and beliefs as you make your move.

ChicagoSt. Petersburg

Political Make-up

Mostly DemocraticMix of Democratic and Republican

Local Politics

Progressive policiesCentrist, with a mix of liberal and conservative policies

Religion

Diverse, with a significant Catholic presence Archdiocese of ChicagoDiverse, strong Protestant and non-denominational Christian presence City of St. Petersburg

In Chicago, you'll find a city with a strong Democratic lean, known for its progressive stance on various issues. The religious landscape is quite diverse, with a significant number of residents identifying as Catholic, reflected in the presence of the Archdiocese of Chicago. On the other hand, St. Petersburg presents a more politically mixed environment, balancing Democratic and Republican influences. The local politics tend toward centrist views, though it's a city where both liberal and conservative policies find a place. The religious makeup shifts slightly towards Protestant and non-denominational Christian communities, indicative of the broader religious diversity in Florida. Overall, this reflects the unique cultural and societal values that define each city.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Chicago to St. Petersburg

This section aims to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like by comparing traffic and transportation options between Chicago & St. Petersburg. The differences between these two cities can impact your daily routine significantly.

ChicagoSt. Petersburg
3423

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

74

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

83

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with challengesNo, not easily

Can you get by without a car?

In Chicago, the comprehensive public transit system, including buses and the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), makes it feasible for many residents to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. However, traffic congestion can add significant time to your commute. On the other hand, St. Petersburg, with its more relaxed pace and lower traffic congestion, might seem easier to navigate, but the lack of extensive public transit options means relying on a car is more of a necessity. Understanding these differences is crucial for planning your daily commute and deciding whether to bring or buy a car after your move.

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