Moving from Chicago to New York City?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Chicago to New York City Movers

Moving from the bustling streets of the Windy City to the energy-packed avenues of the Big Apple marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. You're trading Chicago's deep-dish pizzas and lakeside views for New York City's towering skyscrapers and endless nightlife, stepping into a landscape where dreams are famously made. In this significant life change, the importance of securing trusted and reliable professional movers cannot be overstated—rely on us at Great Guys Moving to guide you to the best, ensuring your journey from Chi-Town to NYC is smooth and stress-free.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from New York City to Chicago guide.

5 Best Chicago to New York City Movers

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

#1
JP Urban Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 4,145+ data points

Brooklyn, NY
Local NYC Moving, Long Distance Moving, Office Moving, Business Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 2096754 Verify

About JP Urban Moving

JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to give you the best custo...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in new york city 2023 jp urban moving image
top 10 ranked movers in new york city 2022 jp urban moving image
#2
Metropolis Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,535+ data points

Brooklyn, NY
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Commercial moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 2781573 Verify

About Metropolis Moving

Metropolis Moving is a top-rated, licensed, and insured Brooklyn mover serving the greater Tri-State area, including all of Long Island and ...Read More >>

top 3 new york city 2024 metropolis moving image
top 10 ranked movers in queens 2023 metropolis moving image
top 10 ranked movers in queens 2022 metropolis moving image
#3
6
Exceptional

based on 1,152+ data points

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

(last checked 9/6/2024)

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 >>

top 10 chicago 2024 606 movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in kankakee 2023 606 movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in park forest 2022 606 movers inc image
#4
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 9/5/2024)

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 >>

top 10 waukegan 2024 move tastic image
top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top 3 ranked movers in chicago 2023 move tastic image
#5
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 9/5/2024)

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

Relocating from Chicago to New York City Neighborhood Guide

Moving from Chicago, IL to New York City, NY can be overwhelming. This comparison helps you familiarize yourself with New York by using your existing knowledge of neighborhoods in Chicago, IL & New York City, NY .

ChicagoNew York City
Lincoln ParkUpper West Side

Family-friendly, green spaces

Wicker ParkWilliamsburg

Hip, trendy, art scenes

Gold CoastUpper East Side

Affluent, historic charm

Logan SquareBushwick

Eclectic, artistic community vibes

West LoopMeatpacking District

Modern, upscale dining

LakeviewGreenwich Village

Vibrant, diverse nightlife

StreetervilleMidtown East

Urban, close proximity to attractions

Hyde ParkMorningside Heights

Academic, historic landmarks

River NorthSoHo

High-end galleries, chic boutiques

AndersonvilleAstoria

Cultural melting pot, vibrant community

If you enjoy the relaxed, family-friendly environment of Lincoln Park with its beloved Lincoln Park and Lincoln Park Zoo, you'll feel right at home in the Upper West Side, known for its green spaces like Central Park and Riverside Park. Love the foodie haven of West Loop? The Meatpacking District offers a similar vibe, with upscale dining such as the legendary Buddakan. Wicker Park's artistic and hipster spirit can easily be found in Williamsburg, known for its street art and indie music venues like Brooklyn Steel. And for those who cherish Hyde Park's academic atmosphere and landmarks like the University of Chicago, Morningside Heights with Columbia University and its stunning architecture will appeal to you.

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Things to Do in New York City

  • Explore Central Park on foot or bike
  • Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • Enjoy a Broadway show
  • Walk the High Line
  • Savor eats at Chelsea Market
  • Catch a game at Yankee Stadium
  • Attend a workshop at Brooklyn Public Library

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to New York City

Moving from one city to another offers a unique set of challenges and advantages. This comparison seeks to provide an honest reflection of moving from Chicago, IL to New York City, NY, highlighting both the good and the bad aspects of such a relocation. Understanding these differences can help you make a more informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Harsher winters
  • Lower population density
  • More affordable housing
  • Less public transportation options
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • Milder winters
  • More diverse population
  • Richer cultural experiences
  • Better public transportation
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • Smaller living spaces
  • Higher cost of living
  • Complicated car transportation
  • More crowded
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Larger living spaces
  • Lower cost of living
  • Easier car transportation
  • Less crowded

In both Chicago and New York City, you'll find a wealth of neighborhood parks, restaurants, and sights that cater to a vast array of tastes and preferences. In NYC, you might replace your visits to Chicago’s Lincoln Park with weekends at Central Park or trade deep-dish pizzas for the thin crusts found in Little Italy. Despite the higher cost of living and the generally smaller living spaces in New York, many find the city’s incredible diversity, rich cultural experiences, and superior public transportation system to be worth the trade-offs. Each borough of New York, from the bustling streets of Manhattan to the diverse neighborhoods of Brooklyn, offers a unique slice of life that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Chicago to New York City

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & New York City because food is an integral part of local culture and daily life. By understanding the culinary differences, you’ll get a better sense of what to expect food-wise in your new city.

ChicagoNew York City

Most iconic local food item

Deep-dish pizzaNew York-style pizza

Most popular meat dish

Italian Beef SandwichPastrami on Rye

Most popular street food item

Chicago-style hot dogHallal food

Most popular vegan food

Chicago-style vegan pizzaVegan bagels

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Alinea
  • Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
  • Portillo's
  • Katz's Delicatessen
  • Peter Luger Steak House
  • Joe's Pizza

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

69

Foodie Scene

810

Vegan Friendly

79

While Chicago prides itself on its indulgent deep-dish pizza that can be found in neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Wicker Park, New York City boasts a thinner, crispier pizza that's iconic in Manhattan's Little Italy. If you're a meat lover, you'll enjoy the Italian Beef Sandwich in Chicago, a city known for its rich meaty sandwiches, versus the legendary Pastrami on Rye in New York City, particularly at Katz's Delicatessen in the Lower East Side. For vegans, Chicago offers innovative vegan deep-dish pizzas in places like Logan Square, whereas New York City serves up vegan bagels that are a hit among food enthusiasts in Brooklyn. As you get settled in your new home, exploring these neighborhoods will not only satisfy your taste buds but also help you immerse in the local culture.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Chicago to New York City

Understanding the necessity of food in making anywhere feel like home, this comparison is designed to seamlessly transition your dining experiences from one vibrant city to another. By comparing Chicago's top eateries to New York City's, you'll find your new go-to restaurant based on your current favorites in the Windy City. Let this guide be your culinary compass as you embark on your new adventure.

AlineaPer Se

Both offer a unique, upscale tasting menu with exceptional attention to detail in each dish

Portillo'sKatz's Delicatessen

Famous for their comfort food, offering a taste of local tradition and casual dining

Girl & The GoatBarbuto

Both have a lively atmosphere with a focus on inventive, rustic dishes

PublicanThe Spotted Pig

Known for their hearty, high-quality pub fare, emphasizing local and fresh ingredients

Lou Malnati's PizzeriaJohn's of Bleecker Street

Classic, beloved pizza places offering deep-dish and thin-crust pies respectively

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabDelmonico's

Both specialize in high-end seafood and steaks, with a historic and luxurious setting

AvecBalthazar

Similar vibes of bustling, European-inspired eateries with a diverse wine list and shareable plates

Giordano'sLombardi's

Another pizza duel, with Giordano's famous deep-dish up against Lombardi's claim to the first pizza in the U.S.

Frontera GrillLos Tacos No.1

Both widely celebrated for their authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmospheres

The Purple PigOtto Enoteca e Pizzeria

Both offer a diverse menu of Mediterranean flavors, excellent for sharing and wine

Among these comparisons, Alinea and Per Se stand out for their unparalleled dining experiences, both pushing the boundaries of culinary creativity. Yet, for those craving the comforts of home, Portillo's and Katz's Delicatessen provide that warm, nostalgic bite into tradition. It's the unique flavors and atmospheres of places like Girl & The Goat and Barbuto that truly showcase the diversity and quality of offerings in both cities. Whether you desire the heartiness of a perfectly prepared steak from Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab, or the sophistication of sharing plates at Avec and Balthazar, rest assured your culinary journey will be as rich and diverse as your memories from Chicago. Transitioning to your new lifestyle in New York City doesn't mean leaving behind the flavors you love but expanding your palate and experiences.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Chicago to New York City

When planning a move, evaluating real estate differences between your current location and future home is crucial. This comparison will shed light on the housing market in Chicago, IL , and New York City, NY , helping you make an informed decision.

Comparative analysis reveals stark differences and unique charms of living in Chicago and New York City. For instance, Chicago’s housing market is substantially more affordable, whether you're looking to buy or rent, providing more space for your dollar in diverse neighborhoods like Lincoln Park or The Loop. On the other hand, New York commands a premium for its iconic skyline views and proximity to essential services, seen in sought-after areas like Manhattan or Brooklyn. While both cities are celebrated for their urban lifestyle and architecture—boasting high walkability scores—New York edges out with its expansive subway system, making it slightly more convenient for day-to-day commute. These insights into walkability, architecture, and lifestyle preferences are vital in finding a place that feels like home.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in New York City, NY

1. Williamsburg: This neighborhood is known for its large number of pet-friendly apartments and dog parks, including the popular McCarren Park, ensuring your furry friends have plenty of space to roam.

2. Upper East Side: With proximity to Central Park for long walks and an abundance of pet services like grooming and veterinary care, the Upper East Side is perfect for pet owners seeking a mix of green space and city living.

3. Park Slope: Friendly to both pets and their owners, Park Slope offers numerous pet-friendly dining options and access to Prospect Park, a great place for outdoor activities with your pet.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Chicago to New York City

When preparing for a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather in Chicago and New York City will impact your daily life is crucial. This comparison offers insight into what you can expect, helping you adjust to your new environment more smoothly.

Summer icon
85/65

Chicago, IL

85/71

New York City, NY

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
32/18

Chicago, IL

39/26

New York City, NY

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

50

New York City, NY

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

25

New York City, NY

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both Chicago and New York City experience hot summers, Chicago's winters are notably colder and snowier, which could impact your choice of winter clothing and heating needs. New York sees more days of sunshine and slightly higher humidity, affecting how you might want to plan outdoor activities or manage indoor air quality. The threat of natural disasters differs considerably, with Chicago facing extreme cold and blizzards, whereas New York is more prone to hurricanes and Nor'easters. This could influence considerations for emergency planning and insurance.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Chicago, IL to New York City, NY, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison will help you see at a glance how costs such as housing, taxes, and overall living expenses measure up in Chicago versus New York City , enabling better budgeting for your new life.

While the average household income in Chicago slightly surpasses that of New York City, the discrepancy in the cost of living indices is profound, favoring Chicago. This divergence becomes more significant considering New York's graduated state income tax rate, which can climb up to 8.82% based on your income bracket. Additionally, while the average sales tax is higher in Chicago, the overall cost burden, including considerably higher living costs in New York City, paints a financial picture that necessitates careful planning and budgeting. The dominant industries in each city also mirror the unique economic landscapes and opportunities available, suggesting a potential shift in career paths or growth prospects upon relocating.

Political & Religious Comparison between Chicago, IL and New York City, NY

Moving from Chicago to New York City brings a new lifestyle, opportunities, and community ambiance. This guide provides a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Chicago & New York City to help you grasp the social climate you're moving into. It's a quick snapshot aimed at giving you a better understanding of the people and community ideals in your new city.

ChicagoNew York City

Political Make-up

Democratic-leaningDemocratic-leaning

Local Politics

Progressive on social issuesProgressive; strong focus on diversity and inclusion

Religion

Diverse; strong Catholic presenceHighly diverse; significant Jewish, Catholic, and Muslim communities

Though both cities lean Democratic, New York City's politics are especially known for a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion policies. You'll find a vibrant tapestry of religious communities, more so than in Chicago, including Jewish, Catholic, and Muslim congregants actively participating in their faiths. This diversity is reflected in the city's numerous cultural festivals, restaurants, and social hubs, providing you with an enriched, multicultural experience. Community involvement and grassroots organizing are also more pronounced, offering plenty of opportunities for you to get involved in matters important to you.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Chicago to New York City

Before you make the big move, it's essential to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between Chicago & New York City . This comparison will give you a better grasp on what your daily commute and handling traffic might look like in these major cities.

ChicagoNew York City
3440

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

79

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

810

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible, but challenging in some areasYes, especially in Manhattan

Can you get by without car?

While both cities boast extensive public transit systems, New York City's is more comprehensive, allowing residents to easily get by without a car. The average commute time in NYC is longer, mainly because of its larger geographic size and denser population. Traffic congestion is also a more significant issue in New York City compared to Chicago, highlighting the efficiency and convenience of opting for public transportation. Given these factors, understanding the local transit options and planning accordingly can greatly ease your transition and daily commute in your new city.

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