Best Chicago to Durham Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Windy City's bustling streets to Durham's serene landscapes offers an exhilarating chapter in your life. You're transitioning from Chicago's iconic deep-dish pizzas and towering skyscrapers to the Bull City’s rich history and vibrant research triangle. Recognizing the significance of this long-distance journey, we emphasize the importance of partnering with trusted, reliable professional movers to ensure a smooth transition, making your move to Durham as memorable as the city itself.
Best Chicago to Durham Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Durham to Chicago guide.
5 Best Chicago to Durham Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving ExpertsAbout Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
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
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. Durham Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be exciting but also daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To make this transition smoother, we've created a guide to help you find a slice of home in your new city. We compare local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Durham, NC to align your preferences with a similar environment in your new locale. This way, you can start exploring neighborhoods that feel familiar right away.
| Chicago | Durham | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Wicker Park | Old West Durham | Vibrant, artsy vibe |
| Lincoln Park | Trinity Park | Historic homes, family-friendly |
| Logan Square | Warehouse District | Trendy, with a rich nightlife |
| Hyde Park | Hope Valley | Academically inclined, historic |
| The Loop | Downtown Durham | Business hub, cultural attractions |
| River North | American Tobacco District | Upscale, with entertainment options |
| Gold Coast | Brightleaf | Elite, with a mix of dining and shopping |
| South Loop | Duke Park | Diverse, with recreational spaces |
| Andersonville | Cleveland-Holloway | Quaint, with a strong community spirit |
| Edgewater | Geer Street | Lakeside living, laid-back lifestyle |
In comparing the neighborhoods of Chicago with those in Durham, you'll find many parallels that will make you feel right at home. For instance, if you're drawn to the historic charm and abundant green spaces of Lincoln Park, you'll find Trinity Park in Durham to be a harmonious blend of historic architecture amidst verdant parks, such as the lush Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Similarly, Wicker Park's bustling arts scene and community-focused living translate well to Old West Durham, where local galleries like 21c Museum Hotel and dining options such as Pizzeria Toro offer a vibrant social atmosphere. And for those who love the cultural buzz and architectural beauty of The Loop, Downtown Durham serves as an engaging counterpart with its historic sites like the Durham Performing Arts Center and modern endeavors like the American Underground, fostering a dynamic urban experience. By identifying these neighborhood parallels, you can navigate your new surroundings in Durham with confidence and a sense of familiarity.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Durham
Moving cities can be a bittersweet journey, navigating through the mix of loss and gain. This guide aims to provide a balanced view, allowing you to weigh the cons of leaving Chicago, IL against the pros of moving to Durham, NC , and vice versa. By making an informed decision, you can embrace the new opportunities while being mindful of the challenges ahead.
Chicago, IL- Higher crime rates
- Colder winters
- Higher cost of living
- Heavy traffic
Durham, NC- Lower crime rates
- Milder winters
- More affordable
- Less traffic
Durham, NC- Quieter nightlife
- Smaller arts scene
- Less diversity in cuisine
- More reliant on cars
Chicago, IL- Vibrant nightlife
- Rich cultural scene
- Diverse dining options
- Extensive public transport
Moving from Chicago to Durham brings noticeable changes. While you might miss Chicago's vibrant nightlife and immensely diverse dining scene, featuring establishments from Michelin-starred restaurants like Alinea to the plethora of local eateries, Durham welcomes you with its own charm. This includes gems such as the Durham Performing Arts Center for culture enthusiasts and the lush green spaces of Eno River State Park for nature lovers and weekend hikers. Durham's more affordable living and lighter traffic conditions make day-to-day life easier and potentially more relaxed. Although Durham's dining scene may offer less international variety, it prides itself on a rich local food culture, with spots like Pizzeria Toro bringing high-quality, delicious flavors.
Chicago vs. Durham Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Durham, showcasing how food reflects the unique culture and lifestyle of an area. By understanding the culinary scenes in both cities, you can better anticipate your new dining experiences upon relocating.
| Chicago | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | Pulled Pork BBQ |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef Sandwich | Eastern NC Barbecue |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style Hot Dog | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan | Jackfruit BBQ |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Chicago, the deep dish pizza, epitomized by establishments like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, dominates the city’s culinary landscape, while Italian Beef Sandwiches from places like Al's Beef showcase the city's affection for flavorful meats. The Chicago-style hot dog, another street food masterpiece, can be found throughout the city, reflecting Chicago's rich culinary diversity. On the other hand, Durham's culinary scene shines with its barbecue tradition, particularly the pulled pork BBQ, a local staple found at joints like The Q Shack. The city's burgeoning food truck scene, especially around neighborhoods like Durham Central Park, offers a variety of cuisines, with food truck tacos being a notable highlight. Vegan options are on the rise in both cities, with Durham embracing southern twists on vegan dishes, such as Jackfruit BBQ.
Chicago vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be more than just a change of scenery—it's about creating a new lifestyle in a fresh environment. A significant part of feeling at home in a new city revolves around discovering local dining spots that resonate with your palate. This restaurant comparison between Chicago, IL, and Durham, NC, is aimed at helping you find your new favorite eateries by drawing parallels with those you already love. Let's embark on this culinary journey together, ensuring your transition is as flavorful as possible.
| Chicago | Durham | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | NanaSteak | upscale dining, inventive dishes |
| Girl & The Goat | Mateo Bar de Tapas | shared plates, vibrant atmosphere |
| Giordano’s | Pizzeria Toro | famous for deep-dish, hearty flavors |
| The Purple Pig | Bar Virgile | diverse charcuterie, intimate settings |
| Portillo’s | King’s Sandwich Shop | iconic, casual eatery |
| Smoque BBQ | The Pit | authentic barbecue, southern flair |
| Rick Bayless’s Frontera Grill | Gonza Tacos y Tequila | vibrant Mexican cuisine |
| Au Cheval | Bull City Burger and Brewery | renowned burgers, craft beer |
| Roister | M Pocha | innovative dishes, unique fusion |
| Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Blu Seafood and Bar | fresh catches, elegant dining |
While you may be leaving the Windy City behind, you won't have to sacrifice the vibrant dining scene you've grown to love. For instance, Chicago's love for deep-dish pizza can find a comforting semblance at Pizzeria Toro in Durham, where the emphasis on quality ingredients and robust flavors mirrors that of Giordano’s. Fans of inventive dining akin to Alinea will find solace in NanaSteak, where creativity meets the plate with a southern twist, promising an upscale experience that pays homage to your Chicago dining adventures. Whether it's the hearty flavors of authentic barbecue at The Pit echoing Smoque BBQ's smoky goodness or the unique blend of culture and cuisine at Mateo Bar de Tapas reminiscent of the vibrant, communal atmosphere of Girl & The Goat, Durham offers a diverse and rich culinary landscape ready to welcome Chicagoans with open arms and appetizing plates.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a crucial role when relocating. It's vital to understand how Chicago, IL and Durham, NC housing aspects compare, from costs to lifestyle. This comparative chart provides a succinct overview, aiding in your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Chicago | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Historic Blends | Colonial and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to public transportation, Lakefront views | Quiet neighborhoods, Large backyards |
While examining Chicago and Durham's real estate landscapes, it's clear the two cities offer distinct living experiences. Chicago presents a vibrant urban lifestyle with a high walkability score, reflecting its dense layout and extensive public transit system, including the famed CTA. This contrasts with Durham's quieter, more suburban feel, where larger lots and Craftsman-style homes prevail. Additionally, while Durham boasts slightly higher median home prices, its relative affordability in terms of rent and the presence of spacious backyards highlight its appeal for those seeking more room at a potentially lower cost. Choosing between the city's lively pace and Durham's laid-back charm will depend on your lifestyle preferences and priorities.
Chicago vs. Durham Weather Considerations
Moving from one place to another means adapting to new weather patterns. Our comparison chart between Chicago, IL, and Durham, NC, highlights the differences in climate that you'll experience. Understanding this will help you prepare for seasonal changes and plan for a comfortable living environment in your new home.
Chicago, IL
Durham, NC
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Durham, NC
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Durham, NC
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Durham, NC
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Variable |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Hurricanes, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Chicago to Durham, you'll notice a significant difference in climate. Durham boasts warmer summers and milder winters, making it an appealing destination for those who prefer less harsh winter conditions. Additionally, Durham enjoys more days of sunshine annually, which boosts outdoor activity options. However, it's crucial to be prepared for the higher humidity and UV index, especially during the summer months. The threat of hurricanes is more pronounced in Durham than in Chicago, where blizzards and tornadoes are more common, so understanding and preparing for local natural disaster risks is vital.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Durham
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications and how the cost of living in your new home compares to what you're used to is crucial. This comparison between Chicago, IL and Durham, NC will provide a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of finances and economy.
| Comparison | Chicago | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $71,343 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 96.6 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 5.25 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.10 | 0.85 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 7.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Education, Health, Technology |
| Affluence | Varied | Emerging |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Less prevalent |
While both Chicago and Durham offer unique financial landscapes, making the transition from Chicago to Durham might mean experiencing a slightly lower cost of living, predominantly due to differences in property and sales taxes. For example, Durham boasts an average property tax of only 0.85% compared to Chicago's 2.10%. Additionally, Durham's cost of living index is lower, which can have a positive impact on your daily expenses. However, state income tax is slightly higher in Durham, which could offset some of the cost savings. It's also noteworthy that the industries driving the economy differ between the two cities, which may influence job opportunities and salaries in your field.
Chicago vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison
When moving from Chicago, IL to Durham, NC, it's helpful to get a quick glimpse at the differences in the local demographics you'll encounter. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Chicago & Durham, ensuring a smoother transition for you.
| Chicago | Durham | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Mix of progressive and traditional values | Lean more progressive |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Catholic population | Varied, with a strong presence of Protestant denominations |
The two cities share a Democratic leaning in their political makeup, though Durham tends to be more progressive in its local policies and community engagement. While Chicago boasts a diverse palette of religious beliefs with a notable Catholic presence, Durham presents a varied religious landscape as well, yet you'll find it has a stronger Protestant influence. Regardless of these differences, the welcoming communities in both cities share a commitment to inclusivity and respect for diverse viewpoints. This fundamental similarity will help ease your transition as you move from the bustling cityscape of Chicago to the warm, community-focused streets of Durham.
Chicago vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from city to city can be a big change, especially when it comes to your daily commute. This guide will help you compare the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Durham , so you know what to expect for your morning and evening rides. Whether you're driving or using public transit, understanding the differences will make your move smoother.
| Comparison | Chicago | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | Challenging |
In Chicago, you'll find one of the most extensive public transit systems in the U.S., making it possible to get by without a car for most city dwellers. The average commute time is longer due to higher traffic congestion, a trade-off for living in a bustling metropolis. On the other hand, Durham offers a simpler commuting experience with less congestion and shorter average commute times, but living here might require having a car due to limited public transit options. The contrasting lifestyles point towards a busier, urban Chicago against a more laid-back, car-dependent Durham.
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