Best Chicago to Columbus Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from city to city is not just a change of address; it's an exciting journey that unfolds a new chapter in your life. Leaving behind the bustling Windy City with its iconic deep-dish pizza and towering skyscrapers for Columbus, GA, affectionately known as "Fountain City" for its lovely water displays and slower-paced, southern charm, marks the start of a unique adventure. Recognizing the importance of having trusted and reliable professionals by your side for this long-distance move, we align you with the best movers, filtered through an unbiased ranking algorithm, ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.
Best Chicago to Columbus Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Move-tastic! | 9.35 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| A1 Movers, Inc | 9.34 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| The Home Moving Solution | 8.92 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Lambert Transfer & Storage, Inc. | 7.33 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Columbus to Chicago guide.
5 Best Chicago to Columbus 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
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 The Home Moving Solution
The Home Moving Solution is a family-owned and operated company specializing in residential and small business relocations. Established in 2...Read More >>
Services
- Local Home Moving
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Full Packing Services
About Lambert Transfer & Storage, Inc.
For nearly a century, Lambert Transfer & Storage has been moving families and businesses in the Opelika and Montgomery areas. This famil...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- International moving
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. Columbus Neighborhood Comparison
When considering a move from one city to another, understanding the similarities between neighborhoods can ease the transition. This guide is designed to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your current city as a baseline. Specifically, we'll provide a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Columbus, GA, highlighting the most comparable areas in terms of atmosphere, amenities, and lifestyle.
| Chicago | Columbus | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Green Island Hills | Lush green spaces, family-friendly vibe |
| Wicker Park | MidTown | Trendy shops, vibrant arts scene |
| The Loop | Downtown Columbus | Urban living, cultural amenities |
| River North | Broadway | Upscale dining, vibrant nightlife |
| Gold Coast | Hilton Heights | Affluent area, historic homes |
| South Loop | Weracoba/St. Elmo | Diverse community, near parks |
| Logan Square | Historic District | Hipster-friendly, creative spaces |
| Hyde Park | Lakebottom | Intellectual vibe, close to educational institutions |
| Andersonville | Old Town | Strong sense of community, eclectic shops |
| Ravenswood | Brookstone | Quiet, family-oriented, good schools |
If you're moving from Chicago's Lincoln Park, known for its well-manicured parks and zoo, to Columbus, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Green Island Hills, where the lush greenery and friendly community will make you feel right at home. Those accustomed to the trendy, artsy vibe of Wicker Park might enjoy MidTown Columbus, where local boutiques and vibrant murals paint a lively scene. If you're drawn to the urban lifestyle of The Loop, Downtown Columbus offers a blend of cultural amenities and modern living spaces. Meanwhile, Chicago's Gold Coast and Columbus' Hilton Heights share an air of affluence and historic charm, with grand homes lining the streets. However, if the hipster-friendly and creative atmosphere of Logan Square is more your speed, Columbus' Historic District will not disappoint with its inviting community and innovative spirit.
Things to Do in Columbus
Visit Andersonville National Historic Site- Explore the Columbus Museum
- Walk the Chattahoochee RiverWalk
- Experience National Infantry Museum
- Catch a show at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
- Shop at Columbus Farmers Market
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Columbus
Moving cities is a significant decision, shaped by weighing different factors of the current and prospective homes. This comparison is designed to offer an honest reflection on the transition from Chicago, IL to Columbus, GA , highlighting both the good and the bad to help you make an informed decision. Here, you’ll find a contrast between what you might miss and what you can look forward to in your new city.
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Higher crime rates
Columbus, GA- Milder winters
- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Lower crime rates
Columbus, GA- Quieter nightlife
- Smaller cultural scene
- Limited public transport
- Fewer dining options
Chicago, IL- Vibrant nightlife
- Rich cultural scene
- Extensive public transport
- Diverse dining options
While the prospect of milder winters and a lower cost of living in Columbus, GA, might be appealing, it's worth considering what you might miss from Chicago, IL. Chicago's vibrant nightlife is unmatched, with renowned venues like The Chicago Theatre and Lincoln Hall offering memorable experiences. The city’s rich cultural scene, exemplified by institutions such as The Art Institute of Chicago, provides endless avenues for exploration. Meanwhile, Columbus, with its burgeoning growth, offers a quieter, albeit less diverse, lifestyle. Familiar spots like the National Infantry Museum and the RiverWalk provide unique local experiences, albeit on a smaller scale. This transition brings a change in pace, scenery, and opportunities, marking a new chapter in your life.
Chicago vs. Columbus Food Guide
Understanding the local food scene is a key part of getting to know your new home. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Columbus so you can get a taste of what life will be like in either city, from iconic dishes to health and vegan options.
| Chicago | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | Fried Catfish |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Pulled Pork BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style Hot Dog | Boiled Peanuts |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Black Bean Burger |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Chicago boasts an eclectic food scene, from the hearty Italian beef sandwiches to the world-renowned deep dish pizza available in established eateries like Lou Malnati’s. On the streets, you'll find the unique Chicago-style hot dog, a city signature. The city is also mindful of dietary preferences, with places like Alinea offering upscale dining experiences for all. Columbus, contrastingly, delights with its down-home Southern cooking, exemplified in local favorites like fried catfish. Minnie's Uptown and Country’s Barbecue offer authentic tastes of the region’s culinary traditions. While both cities cater to a range of tastes and dietary needs, Chicago has a slightly more vibrant foodie scene and food truck culture, promising an exciting culinary adventure.
Chicago vs. Columbus Restaurant Comparison
Relocating isn't just about changing addresses; it's about finding those new favorite spots that make a place truly feel like home. Especially when it comes to food, having go-to restaurants can greatly ease the transition. This restaurant comparison between Chicago and Columbus is designed to help you quickly discover where you can continue to enjoy the meals you love or find new favorites that might just remind you of home.
| Chicago | Columbus | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Epic Restaurant | Offers a fine dining experience reminiscent of Alinea's innovation and attention to detail |
| Giordano's | Your Pie | Though more casual, it brings a touch of Chicago's deep-dish pizza to Columbus |
| Girl & The Goat | The Black Cow | A similar vibrant atmosphere and emphasis on high-quality, unique dishes |
| Portillo's Hot Dogs | Plucked Up Chicken & Biscuits | While more focused on chicken, it captures Portillo's casual and comforting vibe |
| The Purple Pig | Meritage | Focuses on shared plates and robust flavors, akin to The Purple Pig's philosophy |
| Smoque BBQ | Country's Barbecue | Delivers on the smoky, tender BBQ flavors Smoque BBQ fans crave |
| Publican | 11th and Bay Southern Table | Offers a similar approach to rustic, farm-to-table dining |
| Rick Bayless' Frontera Grill | Yalla Public House | While more Mediterranean, it shares Frontera's dedication to fresh, vibrant flavors |
| Roister | The Loft | Both are about creating a warm atmosphere with uniquely prepared, contemporary dishes |
| Big Star | Barberitos | Provides a relaxed setting to enjoy tacos and margaritas, similar to Big Star's popular outdoor scene |
In your journey from Chicago's bustling food scene to Columbus's evolving culinary landscape, you'll find comforting similarities and delightful new experiences. For instance, Epic Restaurant in Columbus is a fine dining spot that echoes Alinea's dedication to culinary excellence and creativity. On the more casual side, Plucked Up Chicken & Biscuits offers a comfort food haven comparable to Portillo's, albeit with a focus on chicken. Meanwhile, fans of Chicago's famed deep-dish pizza might be surprised to find a twist on this classic at Your Pie in Columbus, where the spirit of Giordano's lives on in a different, yet satisfying form. Each of these establishments not only serves as a bridge between your old and new homes but also invites you to explore the unique flavors that make Columbus distinct.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Columbus Real Estate & Living Facts
When you're planning a move, comparing real estate between Chicago, IL and Columbus, GA is crucial. This comparison will help you understand key differences in housing costs, architectural styles, and the overall lifestyle in both cities. Knowing these factors can significantly impact your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Chicago | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Historical Blends | Traditional and Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake Views, Proximity to Public Transit | Quiet Neighborhoods, Spacious Yards |
In exploring a move from Chicago to Columbus, you'll find striking differences in housing costs and lifestyle. For instance, the median home price in Columbus is significantly lower than in Chicago, making it a more affordable option for many. Columbus offers traditional and colonial architecture, providing a contrasting aesthetic to Chicago’s blend of modern and historical styles. Additionally, the higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores in Chicago reflect its dense, vibrant cityscape compared to Columbus's quieter, more spacious environment. This comparison highlights how lifestyle preferences and budget considerations can guide your choice between these two distinct places.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Columbus, GA
1. Midtown: This neighborhood is known for its spacious parks like Lakebottom Park, offering plenty of trails and open spaces for you and your pets to explore.
2. Green Island Hills: With its serene environment and pet-friendly policies, Green Island Country Club nearby provides a sophisticated setting for both you and your pets to enjoy leisurely walks.
3. Weracoba/St. Elmo: Home to the popular Weracoba Park, this area offers expansive outdoor areas for pets to play and is known for its community’s active involvement in pet-friendly events.
Chicago vs. Columbus Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one location to another, understanding how the climate and weather conditions compare is crucial. This guide is designed to help you grasp the weather differences between Chicago, IL, and Columbus, GA , ensuring you know what to expect and how to prepare for your new climate.
Chicago, IL
Columbus, GA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Columbus, GA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Columbus, GA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Columbus, GA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Cold Waves | Hurricanes, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Chicago to Columbus, you'll notice significant differences in weather, especially in terms of winter temperatures and the amount of sunlight. With around 189 days of sunshine a year, Chicago's climate is cooler, especially during its snowy winters. In contrast, Columbus enjoys about 221 sunny days, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. This change means you can expect a more outdoor lifestyle year-round in Columbus, albeit with the adjustment to higher humidity and the occasional threat from hurricanes or tornadoes. The higher annual UV Index in Columbus also suggests a greater need for sun protection. Understanding these differences can help you acclimate more comfortably to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Columbus
When planning your move from Chicago, IL to Columbus, GA, comparing financial factors is crucial to anticipate the changes in your lifestyle. This guide emphasizes the comparison between Chicago and Columbus in aspects such as income , taxation , and cost of living , to ensure you make an informed decision tailored to your financial wellbeing.
| Comparison | Chicago | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $52,734 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 93.35 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 1-5.75 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.12 | 0.83 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 8 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Technology, Manufacturing | Defense, Health Care, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderately low |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
Comparing financial aspects before moving from Chicago to Columbus can highlight significant differences. For instance, the average household income in Columbus is significantly lower, which is reflected in its lower cost of living index. However, state and property tax rates vary greatly, with Columbus offering a more favorable scenario for property owners. Despite these differences, it's essential to consider factors like the local industries that drive the economy and employment opportunities. Columbus's strong defense and healthcare sectors may offer new beginnings for those seeking employment in these fields.
Chicago vs. Columbus Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Chicago, IL to Columbus, GA offers a unique opportunity to experience a different cultural and social atmosphere. In this quick snapshot, we aim to provide you with an at-a-glance comparison of the political and religious makeup between Chicago & Columbus , highlighting how these aspects shape each city's identity.
| Chicago | Columbus | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Republican |
| Local Politics | Liberal Policies | Conservative Policies |
| Religion | Catholicism, Various Others | Predominantly Protestant |
While both cities have rich and diverse communities, there's a distinct shift in political and religious landscapes when moving from Chicago to Columbus. Chicago, known for its Democratic lean, has a wide array of religions with a strong presence of Catholicism, influenced by a broad spectrum of ethnic communities. On the other hand, Columbus has a more conservative political climate, with Protestantism playing a significant role in the community's religious life. This comparison reflects just a part of the broader cultural differences you'll experience, providing insights into the societal values prevalent in each city.
Chicago vs. Columbus Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Columbus is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like as you consider moving from Chicago, IL to Columbus, GA.
| Comparison | Chicago | Columbus |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
While Chicago offers an extensive public transit system, making it possible for many residents to get by without a car, Columbus presents a different story. In Columbus, the lower availability of public transit and less traffic congestion reflect a city that relies more on personal vehicles for transportation. The average commute time in Columbus is significantly shorter than in Chicago, which can be attributed to its smaller size and less congested roads. However, this also means that living in Columbus without a car might be challenging, emphasizing the importance of having your own transportation or exploring carpooling options.
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