Moving from Chicago to Charlotte?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Chicago to Charlotte Movers

Moving from the Windy City to The Queen City is not just a change of scenery, it's an exciting leap into a new chapter of your life. While you're swapping Chicago's iconic deep-dish for Charlotte's vibrant BBQ scene, and exchanging brisk lakeside winds for lush, green landscapes, it's crucial to make this transition as smooth as possible. That's why selecting trusted and reliable professional movers is key for this long-distance move, and at Great Guys Moving, we connect you with the best, ensuring your adventure starts on the right foot.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charlotte to Chicago guide.

5 Best Chicago to Charlotte 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

Chicago, IL
Residential Movers, Commercial Movers, Packing & Unpacking Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 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

Chicago, IL
Full Moves, Truck Loading and Unloading, Interstate Moving Assistance See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 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
You Move Me Charlotte Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,826+ data points

Charlotte, NC
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Piano moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2518689 Verify

About You Move Me Charlotte

You Move Me is a franchised moving company that has locations all across North America, including Charlotte, NC. Serving the entire Charlott...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in charlotte 2022 you move me charlotte image
#4
H2H Movers Inc Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 8,231+ data points

Chicago, IL
Local moves, Long distance moves, Commercial moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 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
#5
Road Haugs Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,682+ data points

Charlotte, NC
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Specialty Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2535952 Verify

About Road Haugs Moving & Storage

Road Haugs Moving & Storage is a Charlotte-based moving company that is second-generation family-owned and operated. Primarily executing...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in charlotte 2022 road haugs moving storage image

Relocating from Chicago to Charlotte Neighborhood Guide

Moving from one city to another can be challenging, but it helps to draw comparisons between your current and future neighborhoods. This guide aims to help you acclimate to Charlotte, NC by using Chicago, IL & Charlotte, NC neighborhood comparisons as a reference point.

ChicagoCharlotte
Lincoln ParkSouth End

Trendy, vibrant, near downtown

LakeviewPlaza Midwood

Diverse, lively, night-life

West LoopNoDa

Hip, artsy, food scene

Gold CoastMyers Park

Upscale, historic homes

Wicker ParkDilworth

Trendy, picturesque, young professionals

River NorthUptown

Urban, entertainment district

Hyde ParkElizabeth

Academic, cultural centers

Logan SquareSouth Park

Emerging, family-friendly

Old TownFourth Ward

Historic, close-knit community

The LoopCenter City

Business hub, skyscrapers

If you love the eclectic vibe of Lincoln Park in Chicago, with its Lincoln Park Zoo and bustling restaurants, you'll find a similar energy in Charlotte's South End, known for its trendy eateries and proximity to downtown. Comparable to River North's vibrant entertainment district, Charlotte's Uptown offers a bustling nightlife with spots like Brewers at 4001 Yancey and a wide array of entertainment venues. If you cherish the upscale charm and historic homes of Gold Coast in Chicago, you'll appreciate Myers Park in Charlotte with its elegant tree-lined streets and Southern elegance.

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Things to Do in Charlotte

  • Explore Carowinds amusement park.
  • Stroll through Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
  • Visit the Mint Museum.
  • Watch a game at Truist Field.
  • Enjoy U.S. National Whitewater Center activities.
  • Relax at Freedom Park.
  • Tour Bechtler Museum of Modern Art.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Charlotte

Moving from a city you're familiar with to a new one can be daunting. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC . Understanding both the upsides and the challenges can help you make an informed decision, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Harsh winters
  • Higher crime rates
  • Higher living costs
  • Dense urban living
Charlotte, NC iconCharlotte, NC
  • Milder winters
  • Lower crime rates
  • Lower living costs
  • More suburban feel
Charlotte, NC iconCharlotte, NC
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Less diversity in dining
  • Less public transit options
  • Fewer cultural institutions
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse dining options
  • Extensive public transit
  • Rich cultural institutions

Charlotte, NC, offers a refreshing shift with its lower living costs and milder winters compared to Chicago, IL. You'll trade the windy city's biting cold for a more temperate climate, allowing for more year-round outdoor activities. The relocation also means adjusting to a quieter nightlife but embracing a city blooming with green spaces like Freedom Park and McDowell Nature Preserve. Charlotte's burgeoning food scene, with places like Kindred on Main Street in Davidson, offers a diverse and evolving dining experience. While it may lack in the breadth of cultural institutions compared to Chicago, destinations like the Mint Museum ensure that your cultural and artistic cravings are satisfied. Thus, although you might miss Chicago's extensive public transit system and vibrant urban life, Charlotte welcomes you with a promising blend of suburban tranquility and a growing, dynamic urban scene.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Chicago to Charlotte

As you prepare to move, understanding the local culture through its food is key. In this guide, we're going to make a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Charlotte, providing you insights into the food scenes of both cities, so you can savor what awaits in your new home.

ChicagoCharlotte

Most iconic local food item

Deep Dish PizzaPulled Pork BBQ

Most popular meat dish

Italian Beef SandwichFried Chicken

Most popular street food item

Chicago Style Hot DogCarolina BBQ Sandwich

Most popular vegan food

Seitan WingsJackfruit BBQ

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
  • Mac's Speed Shop
  • Midwood Smokehouse
  • Optimist Hall

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

68

Abundance of Food Trucks

79

Foodie Scene

87

Vegan Friendly

78

In transitioning from Chicago to Charlotte, you're moving from a city known for its deep dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches to one where BBQ reigns supreme. While Chicago offers the classic Chicago style hot dog as street food, in Charlotte, you'll find the Carolina BBQ sandwich is a go-to option. Charlotte also tends to lean more towards health-conscious and vegan-friendly options, with dishes like jackfruit BBQ featuring prominently in local eateries. You can explore these culinary delights in neighborhoods like South End, especially at places like Optimist Hall, which is a trendy food hall housing some of the city's most iconic eateries. Whether you're craving gourmet dining or comforting street food, Charlotte has diverse offerings that cater to all palates.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Chicago to Charlotte

Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering great places to eat. This chart aims to ease the transition for anyone moving from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC by comparing top dining spots. Whether you're a foodie seeking culinary adventures or simply looking for comforting flavors, this guide will help you find your new favorite restaurant using your current Chicago favorites as a reference point.

AlineaBarrington’s

Cosy, fine dining with an innovative menu

Giordano’sHawthorne’s NY Pizza

Classic, deep-dish pizza in a relaxed setting

The Purple PigHaberdish

Comfort Southern cuisine with a modern twist

Rick Bayless' Frontera GrillCabo Fish Taco

Authentically prepared Mexican dishes with fresh, local ingredients

Portillo's Hot DogsJJ’s Red Hots

Delicious, high-quality hot dogs and unique toppings

Girl & The GoatKindred

Innovative and eclectic dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabThe Capital Grille

Luxurious steak and seafood with impeccable service

Gene & GeorgettiBeef ‘N Bottle

Classic steakhouse with a cozy, vintage vibe

Lou Malnati’s PizzeriaCapishe: Real Italian Kitchen

Authentic, Neapolitan-style pizza and Italian dishes

Au ChevalBang Bang Burgers

Gourmet burgers and a creative menu in an upbeat setting

In the journey to discover Charlotte's culinary scene, take comfort in knowing that your cherished Chicago flavors and dining experiences can find close counterparts. Notable mentions include Hawthorne’s NY Pizza, which mirrors the cherished deep-dish pizza experience from Giordano’s, bringing you a slice of Chicago with each bite. For enthusiasts of the authentic Mexican cuisine provided by Rick Bayless' Frontera Grill, Cabo Fish Taco stands ready with fresh and flavorful dishes that echo the essence of Mexican gastronomy. Furthermore, the eclectic and innovative dining experience at Girl & The Goat finds its match in Kindred’s warm atmosphere and inventive plates. Embrace these dining gems as you explore your new home, where familiar flavors blend with Charlotte's unique culinary identity.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Chicago to Charlotte

When planning a move, comparing Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC real estate is crucial. Understanding the differences in housing costs , architecture , walkability , and other factors can guide your decision-making process.

Chicago offers a more urban lifestyle with its high walkability and bikeability scores, catering to those who value accessibility and public transit. The city's real estate listings frequently highlight lake views, underpinning the premium on scenic vistas. In contrast, Charlotte's real estate tends towards larger yards and emphasis on community amenities, reflecting a preference for space and neighborhood facilities. The architecture in Charlotte leans towards Colonial Revival and Craftsman styles, offering a different aesthetic from Chicago's blend of modern and historic buildings. This distinction in lifestyle and property features might influence your decision on where you'll call home next.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Charlotte, NC

1. NoDa: Known for its vibrant art scene, NoDa offers numerous dog-friendly patios and establishments like NoDa Brewing Company, where you can enjoy a craft beer with your furry friend by your side.

2. South End: This neighborhood is bustling with pet-friendly restaurants and bars, plus it's home to the Skyline Dog Park, giving your pets a spacious area to play in the heart of the city.

3. Plaza Midwood: Your pets are welcome at many outdoor restaurants and bars; additionally, it's close to Midwood Park, a great place for walks and relaxation.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Charlotte

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather in your new location, Charlotte, NC, will compare to what you're accustomed to in Chicago, IL. This comparison will help you prepare for the differences in climate and seasonal changes you can expect.

Summer icon
82°F / 63°F

Chicago, IL

89°F / 68°F

Charlotte, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
32°F / 18°F

Chicago, IL

51°F / 30°F

Charlotte, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

43

Charlotte, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

4

Charlotte, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Chicago to Charlotte means you'll enjoy warmer summers and milder winters, with a noticeable increase in sunny days. The higher number of days of sunshine and slightly lower humidity in Charlotte may contribute to a more pleasant day-to-day experience, especially if you enjoy spending time outdoors. However, it's important to note that while snow is less common in Charlotte, the city does experience significantly more rainfall and the potential for hurricanes and ice storms, so planning for these events is essential. Regardless, the overall milder climate and improved air quality can enhance your quality of life in Charlotte.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC, it's crucial to grasp how the financial parameters and economic environment compare. Knowing these differences can make your transition smoother and help with budgeting in your new city.

Understanding the financial environment of Chicago and Charlotte reveals notable differences. While both cities boast dynamic economies, Charlotte offers a slightly lower cost of living, combined with a burgeoning affluence that contrasts with Chicago's moderate standing. Despite Chicago's higher average household income, Charlotte compensates with a more affordable living index and lower property taxes, making it an attractive option for many. Additionally, the distinctive industrial landscapes of both cities highlight diverse job opportunities, reflecting their unique economic characters. Considering these factors can be crucial in easing your transition and ensuring financial stability in your new home.

Political & Religious Comparison between Chicago, IL and Charlotte, NC

When moving from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC, understanding the local community's dynamics is crucial. This comparison will provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Chicago & Charlotte, helping you know what to expect in your new home.

ChicagoCharlotte

Political Make-up

Strongly DemocraticLeans Democratic

Local Politics

Highly active, urban progressive policiesMix of urban and suburban policies, moderate activism

Religion

Diverse: Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, MuslimPrimarily Protestant, with significant Catholic and growing Muslim communities

Chicago and Charlotte share Democratic leanings, though Charlotte presents a more mixed political landscape, blending urban and suburban agendas. Local politics in Chicago are marked by vigorous activism and progressive initiatives, reflecting its urbanity. In contrast, Charlotte's political scene engages a broader range of voices, leading to moderate activism and a diverse set of policies. Religion plays a significant role in both communities; however, Charlotte tends to have a stronger Protestant presence, while Chicago boasts a wide range of religious affiliations, including Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, and Muslim communities. Understanding these nuances can help you better integrate into your new city's social fabric.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Charlotte

Relocating from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC, you'll find significant differences in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This guide aims to help you better understand the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Charlotte by examining key aspects of each city's driving and transit conditions.

ChicagoCharlotte
3425

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

74

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

96

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

YesNo

Can you get by without car?

When moving from Chicago to Charlotte, you'll notice a refreshing change in commute times, with Charlotte offering a quicker average journey to work. However, Charlotte's public transit isn't as robust as Chicago's, where the CTA provides extensive bus and train services, making it easier to navigate the city without relying on personal vehicles. This makes owning a car almost a necessity in Charlotte for convenience and broader access, as the city scores lower in terms of public transport availability compared to Chicago. On the bright side, Charlotte experiences less traffic congestion, which could result in a more pleasant driving experience during your daily commutes.

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