Best Chicago to New Orleans Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Chicago to New Orleans Movers

Moving from the Windy City to the Big Easy marks an exhilarating chapter in your life, embracing the adventure of new beginnings. While you're swapping Chicago's towering skyscrapers and bustling streets for New Orleans' vibrant music scene, historical charm, and culinary delights, it's a journey that brims with excitement yet demands careful planning. To ensure a smooth transition, it's crucial to rely on trusted and dependable professional movers. Our team at Great Guys Moving utilizes an unbiased ranking algorithm, guiding you to the finest movers for this long-distance endeavor, allowing you to focus on the excitement ahead.

Illinois iconArrow iconLouisiana icon

Best Chicago to New Orleans Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
H2H Movers Inc9.24AAuthorized For HHGContact
Bart's Office Inc.7.03NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Two Men and a Truck6.88A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from New Orleans to Chicago guide.

5 Best Chicago to New Orleans Moving Companies

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

606 Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,152+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Move-tastic! Logo
Exceptional9.35/10
based on 10,649+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers26
Total Annual Miles Moved86,474 (2022)
View Full Review
2
H2H Movers Inc Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.24/10
based on 8,231+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2428328 / 836885

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved359,681 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Bart's Office Inc. Logo
7.03/10
based on 47+ data points

About Bart's Office Inc.

Bart's Office, founded in 1978, stands out in the New Orleans, Louisiana, area as a moving company that specializes in commercial moves. Per...Read More >>

Services

  • Full service commercial relocation
  • Installation/reconfiguration of cubical office space
  • Restaurant & Apartment appliance installation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2118069 / 739860

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Two Men and a Truck Logo
6.88/10
based on 1,663+ data points

About Two Men and a Truck

In just over 35 years of operation, Two Men and A Truck has come from humble beginnings to becoming one of the leading movers across the Uni...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Junk Removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2147737 / 746991

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans13
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved2,300,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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. New Orleans Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by using Chicago, IL & New Orleans, LA local neighborhoods as a baseline. Whether you're seeking a vibrant community, scenic parks, or a foodie's haven, we'll help you find a comparable neighborhood in your new city.

ChicagoNew OrleansHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkGarden DistrictHistoric homes, lush gardens
Wicker ParkMarignyBohemian vibes, live music
Gold CoastFrench QuarterUpscale, vibrant nightlife
AndersonvilleUptownDiverse community, historic charm
The LoopCentral Business DistrictUrban center, professional scene
Logan SquareBywaterArtistic, trendy eateries
LakeviewMid-CityLively, with diverse food options
Hyde ParkTremeCultural rich, historic music venues
River NorthWarehouse DistrictChic lofts, art galleries
Old TownLower Garden DistrictQuaint shops, charming atmosphere

Moving from Chicago's vibrant community of Lincoln Park with its scenic parks like Lincoln Park itself, to the Garden District in New Orleans means you won't miss out on strolling through lush, green spaces and admiring historic homes. Envision yourself attending jazz brunches at the famous Commander's Palace in the Garden District, akin to enjoying a classy evening at Alinea in Lincoln Park. For those charmed by the artistic and Bohemian vibes of Wicker Park, the Marigny neighborhood with spots like the Bacchanal Wine offers a similarly eclectic mix of live music and a strong artistic community. Transitioning from the Gold Coast's upscale shopping and vibrant nightlife to the French Quarter ensures you'll continue to experience top-tier dining and entertainment, with historic venues like Preservation Hall offering unforgettable jazz performances.

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Things to Do in New Orleans

  • Explore the French Quarter
  • Enjoy live jazz at Snug Harbor
  • Visit the Audubon Zoo
  • Take a steamboat cruise
  • Savor beignets at Café du Monde
  • Stroll through City Park
  • Discover art at the New Orleans Museum of Art

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to New Orleans

Moving can be a big decision, and it's essential to weigh the pros and cons of transitioning from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA meticulously. This comparison aims to showcase an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make an informed decision.























ConsPros
Harsh wintersMilder winters
Higher taxesLower taxes
Dense urban livingLaid-back lifestyle
Less cultural diversityRich cultural mix






















ProsCons
Vibrant cultural sceneHigher humidity
Extensive public transportationLess public transit options
More job opportunitiesPotentially fewer jobs
Broad culinary varietySmaller food scene

When moving from Chicago to New Orleans, you're transitioning from a bustling metropolis renowned for its culinary diversity and vibrant cultural scene, represented by places like Millennium Park and the Magnificent Mile, to a city celebrated for its rich history, profound cultural mix, and the iconic French Quarter. While Chicago offers more extensive public transportation and a broader job market, New Orleans invites a laid-back lifestyle with milder winters and a close-knit community atmosphere emphasized in areas like the Garden District and along the banks of the Mississippi River. The decision to move from the Windy City to The Big Easy involves not just a change of scenery but a shift towards embracing a city steeped in music, food, and festivals, where every corner tells a story, from the street performers at Jackson Square to the historic tours of Marigny.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Harsh winters
  • Higher taxes
  • Dense urban living
  • Less cultural diversity
New Orleans, LA iconNew Orleans, LA
  • Milder winters
  • Lower taxes
  • Laid-back lifestyle
  • Rich cultural mix
New Orleans, LA iconNew Orleans, LA
  • Higher humidity
  • Less public transit options
  • Potentially fewer jobs
  • Smaller food scene
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant cultural scene
  • Extensive public transportation
  • More job opportunities
  • Broad culinary variety

Chicago vs. New Orleans Food Guide

Understanding the diverse culinary landscapes of a city is vital to getting a true sense of its culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we'll explore how the local cuisine between Chicago & New Orleans offers unique and vibrant food scenes for those considering a move. This comparison will give you a better idea of what culinary delights await you in your new home.

ChicagoNew Orleans
Most iconic local food itemDeep-dish PizzaGumbo
Most popular meat dishItalian BeefJambalaya
Most popular street food itemHot DogsPo'boys
Most popular vegan foodChicago-style Vegan PizzaCreole Tomatoes
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Aurelio's Pizza
  • Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
  • Alinea
  • Commander's Palace
  • Willie Mae's Scotch House
  • Galatoire's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Chicago, the deep-dish pizza reigns supreme, a must-try for any new resident. Head to neighborhoods like The Loop or River North, where iconic pizzerias, including Aurelio's and others, offer a slice of this hearty, cheesy delight. On the other hand, New Orleans will enchant you with its rich Gumbo and Jambalaya, staples of Creole cuisine. The French Quarter and Garden District are home to iconic restaurants such as Commander's Palace, where the history is as rich as the flavors. Both cities boast a vibrant street food scene; however, New Orleans’ Po'boys offer a unique taste of local flavors that cannot be missed. The food scenes in both cities are diverse, offering something for everyone, from food truck aficionados to fitness and health enthusiasts.

Chicago vs. New Orleans Restaurant Comparison

When setting up roots in a new city, discovering places that serve your favorite dishes can instantly make you feel more at home. This restaurant comparison between Chicago and New Orleans aims to bridge the culinary gap, helping you find your next go-to eatery by leveraging your familiar favorites from the Windy City.

ChicagoNew OrleansWhat You'll Love
AlineaCommander's PalaceBoth offer an upscale, fine dining experience with innovative dishes.
Girl & The GoatCompère LapinSimilar in their eclectic, globally-inspired menus, focusing on bold flavors.
Lou Malnati's PizzeriaDomenicaBoth pizzerias are renowned for their unique take on classic pizza recipes.
Portillo'sJohnny's Po-BoysIconic to their respective cities for offering fast, delicious, and classic regional eats.
Gene & Jude'sWillie Mae's Scotch HouseThough known for different dishes, each is a go-to for authentic, comfort food.
The PublicanHerbsaintBoth are celebrated for their farm-to-table approach and rustic, yet refined menus.
Smoque BBQThe JointBBQ lovers will relish in the similar dedication to smoked meats and down-home sides.
Rick Bayless' Frontera GrillMulate'sWhile the cuisine focus differs, both are loved for their lively atmosphere and authentic flavors.
MingHin CuisineRed's ChineseOffering a unique twist on traditional cuisine, both restaurants provide an innovative dining experience.
Monteverde Restaurant & PastificioShayaInnovative Italian meets Middle Eastern, both excel in pastas and breads made with artisanal flair.

Finding a restaurant that captures the essence of your favorite Chicago eatery in New Orleans might seem daunting at first. Yet, Commander's Palace's commitment to fine dining, comparable to Alinea's meticulous approach to gastronomy, ensures an exquisite experience. For those missing the bold and global flavors of Girl & The Goat, Compère Lapin steps up as a worthy contender, weaving Caribbean influences with Creole sensibility. Meanwhile, nostalgia for Chicago's iconic eateries like Portillo's can be sated with a visit to Johnny's Po-Boys, where the essence of casual, regional fare continues to thrive. Whether it's the innovative pastas of Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio finding a parallel at Shaya, or the smoky delights of Smoque BBQ echoing in The Joint, New Orleans's vibrant culinary scene holds a mirror to Chicago's, promising new favorites in your new home.

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Ready to start your move?

Chicago vs. New Orleans Real Estate & Living Facts

When contemplating a move, comparing the real estate environments of Chicago, IL , and New Orleans, LA , is crucial for making an informed decision. This guide aims to highlight the key differences in housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle scores to better prepare you for what to expect in each city.

ComparisonChicagoNew Orleans
Typical Architecture StyleModern, GreystoneCreole Cottage, Shotgun
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLake views, Luxury AmenitiesHistoric Details, Proximity to French Quarter

Moving from Chicago to New Orleans brings a notable change in lifestyle and housing experiences. Chicago's housing market is distinguished by its modern traits and the prevalence of luxury amenities in real estate listings, making it an attractive destination for those seeking an urban lifestyle with a touch of sophistication. On the other hand, New Orleans' unique architectural styles, such as the Creole cottages and the iconic shotgun houses, reflect the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Additionally, the proximity to the French Quarter is often highlighted in New Orleans' real estate listings, establishing a closer connection to the city's vibrant lifestyle and festivities.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in New Orleans, LA

1. Marigny: Known for its bohemian vibe, Marigny offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and bars, along with the crescent park where you and your pet can enjoy the Mississippi River views together.

2. Garden District: This area boasts wide streets, garden paths, and the dog-friendly Lafayette Square, perfect for afternoon walks with your furry friend.

3. Mid-City: With its access to the expansive City Park, which includes an off-leash dog park, Mid-City is a dream for pet owners looking for plenty of green space and outdoor activities.

Chicago vs. New Orleans Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another involves many considerations, and understanding how the weather compares between your current location and your new one is crucial. This comparison will enlighten you on what to expect weather-wise, making your transition smoother. Weather comparisons between Chicago and New Orleans highlight significant differences in climate, sunshine, and more, aiding in your preparation for the move.

Summer icon
85/65

Chicago, IL

91/76

New Orleans, LA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35/22

Chicago, IL

62/48

New Orleans, LA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

63

New Orleans, LA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

0

New Orleans, LA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonChicagoNew Orleans
Air QualityModerateModerate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Natural DisastersBlizzards, Cold WavesHurricanes, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Chicago to New Orleans, you'll experience not only a warmer climate but also significantly more humidity and sunshine throughout the year. The milder winters of New Orleans come without snow, a stark contrast to Chicago's snow-filled winters. The higher humidity in New Orleans may take some adjustment, particularly during the summer months when heat indices can surge. On the plus side, the extra sunshine and longer warm seasons in New Orleans enhance outdoor activity opportunities, though it's also important to consider the increased risk of hurricanes and the necessity for appropriate preparedness strategies.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to New Orleans

When considering a move from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living, taxes, and local economy will impact your finances. This comparison sheds light on the financial aspects that differentiate Chicago from New Orleans to help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonChicagoNew Orleans
Avg. Household Income$66,576$46,942
Cost of Living Index116.996
State Income Tax4.956.0
Avg. Property Tax2.120.52
Avg. Sales Tax10.259.45
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Insurance, ManufacturingTourism, Port Operations, Energy
AffluenceModerateVaried
PovertyNoticeableSignificant
HomelessnessConcerningWorrisome

Despite a higher cost of living index in Chicago, the average household income is significantly greater than in New Orleans. However, New Orleans presents a more affordable property tax rate, potentially making homeownership more accessible. The distinct local economies, highlighted by Chicago's focus on finance and manufacturing versus New Orleans' emphasis on tourism and port operations, can offer diverse job opportunities depending on your career field. Understanding these differences is key to preparing for the financial transition between these two unique cities.

Chicago vs. New Orleans Political & Religious Comparison

When preparing for a move from Chicago, IL, to New Orleans, LA, it’s essential to understand the communities you'll be joining. This guide provides a comparison of the politics between Chicago & New Orleans and a glimpse into the religious makeup, to give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot.

ChicagoNew Orleans
Political Make-upDemocratic-leaningDemocratic-leaning
Local PoliticsHighly active city politicsHighly engaged in local issues
ReligionDiverse; large Catholic populationStrong Catholic presence, significant diversity

In both Chicago and New Orleans, you'll find communities that lean Democratic, reflecting a consensus on various progressive issues. Local politics play a significant role in shaping the cities' futures, with residents actively engaged in discussions and initiatives that impact their communities. Regarding religious makeup, both cities boast a diverse range of faiths, although they are notably marked by a strong Catholic presence. This similarity may make the cultural transition smoother for you, allowing for easier integration into your new surroundings.

Chicago vs. New Orleans Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Chicago, IL, to New Orleans, LA, involves not just a change of scenery but also adapting to new daily commute routines. This comparison is intended to give you a better understanding of what the daily commute and traffic is like between Chicago & New Orleans.

ComparisonChicagoNew Orleans
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3424
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, with effortYes, but more challenging

Moving from the bustling streets of Chicago to the more laid-back vibes of New Orleans, you'll notice considerable changes in your commuting experiences. In Chicago, the extensive public transit system, including the CTA buses and trains, make it feasible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle, though it might require some effort. On the other hand, New Orleans' more limited public transit options, such as the famous streetcars, mean that getting around might demand more reliance on a car, despite the city's smaller size and less traffic congestion. Adapting to these differences will be an essential part of making your new city feel like home.

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