Best Chicago to Tulsa Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Windy City to the heart of Green Country marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. Leaving behind Chicago's towering skyscrapers and bustling streets for Tulsa's vibrant arts scene and expansive green spaces isn't just a change in scenery—it's a fresh start. Our goal is to ensure this transition is as smooth as possible by connecting you with trusted and reliable professional movers, because when it comes to long-distance moves, having the right team on your side is crucial.
Best Chicago to Tulsa 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 |
| H2H Movers Inc | 9.24 | A | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Serenity Moving Services | 9.12 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Bigger Better Movers | 8.56 | A- | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tulsa to Chicago guide.
5 Best Chicago to Tulsa 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
This listing has been claimed by H2H Movers IncAbout 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
This listing has been claimed by Serenity Moving ServicesAbout Serenity Moving Services
Locally owned and operated since 2014, Serenity Moving Services provides local residential relocation services to the Oklahoma City, Oklahom...Read More >>
Services
- Full Service Moving
- Packing & Unpacking
- Piano Moving
About Bigger Better Movers
Founded in 2017, Bigger Better Movers is a local Oklahoma moving company that offers residential and commercial relocation services to Oklah...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Local Moves
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. Tulsa Neighborhood Comparison
Embarking on a move from Chicago, IL to Tulsa, OK can feel like stepping into a new world. To ease this transition, we've created a guide to help you find a slice of the familiar in an unfamiliar place. By conducting a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Tulsa, OK, we aim to help you feel right at home in your new city by finding similar communities based on vibe, amenities, and overall feel.
| Chicago | Tulsa | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Brookside | Vibrant nightlife, dining options |
| The Loop | Downtown Tulsa | Cultural hub, art deco |
| Wicker Park | Cherry Street | Hip area, local boutiques |
| Hyde Park | Midtown | Historic homes, diverse community |
| Gold Coast | Utica Square | Luxury living, upscale shopping |
| River North | Blue Dome District | Trendy, artsy area |
| Old Town | Maple Ridge | Historic district, family-friendly |
| Lakeview | Riverside | Scenic views, active community |
| West Loop | Brady Arts District | Culinary hot spot, nightlife |
| Andersonville | Kendall Whittier | Quirky, artistic vibe |
In comparing neighborhoods like Lincoln Park in Chicago with Brookside in Tulsa, you'll find both areas boast a lively atmosphere with plenty of nightlife and dining options, perfect for social butterflies. For those who appreciate the cultural vibrancy and architectural splendor of The Loop, Downtown Tulsa offers a similar appeal with its art deco buildings and cultural institutions like the Philbrook Museum of Art. Meanwhile, Wicker Park shoppers and boutique lovers will feel at home in Cherry Street's hip district, filled with unique local boutiques and cozy coffee shops, such as Foolish Things Coffee Co. Additionally, Gold Coast residents moving to Tulsa will find Utica Square's luxury living and upscale shopping opportunities—home to high-end retailers and charming cafes like Queenie's Café and Bakery—to be a seamless transition. Each Tulsa neighborhood offers its own charm and character, mirroring the diverse and rich culture found in Chicago's beloved communities.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Tulsa
Moving from one city to another comes with its share of changes, both good and bad. This comparison is intended to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Tulsa, OK . By contrasting the cons and pros, you can gain a clearer understanding of what awaits in your new city.
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- Harsh winters
- Heavy traffic
- Dense population
Tulsa, OK- Lower cost of living
- Milder winters
- Lighter traffic
- Smaller population
Tulsa, OK- Quieter nightlife
- Less diversity in dining
- Smaller cultural scene
- Limited public transit
Chicago, IL- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse dining options
- Rich cultural scene
- Extensive public transit
While Chicago's vibrant nightlife, extensive dining options, and rich cultural scene are some of the qualities that make it unique, Tulsa offers its own set of appealing features. The Rose District in Broken Arrow provides a blossoming array of local shops, restaurants, and events that bring the community together. With Tulsa's lower cost of living and milder winters, you have the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities at places like the Gathering Place or along the Arkansas River without the burden of Chicago's heavy snowfall. Additionally, the lighter traffic in Tulsa makes commuting a breeze, offering more time to explore the city's numerous parks and local eateries like Burn Co Barbecue. Each city has its charm, but these factors present a compelling case for Tulsa's allure.
Chicago vs. Tulsa Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Tulsa, two cities with unique culinary scenes. Understanding the differences can enrich your relocation experience by immersing you in the local culture and flavors of your new home.
| Chicago | Tulsa | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza | Oklahoma BBQ |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Smoked Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-Style Hot Dog | Fried Onion Burgers |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | BBQ Tofu |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Tulsa and Chicago both offer rich culinary landscapes, but with distinct flavors that reflect their regional influences. In Chicago, neighborhoods like Wicker Park and the West Loop are meccas for food lovers, offering everything from Michelin-starred experiences at places like Alinea to iconic street food like the Chicago-Style Hot Dog. Tulsa, by comparison, leans heavily into its BBQ culture, with establishments like Burn Co BBQ showcasing the city's mastery of smoked meats. Vegan and health-conscious eats are increasingly popular in both cities, though Chicago has a slightly more mature scene, possibly due to its larger and more diverse population. Exploring the local food scene is an exciting part of settling into your new home, offering a taste of the community's culture and heart.
Chicago vs. Tulsa Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a significant role in making a new city feel like home. To ease your transition from Chicago, IL to Tulsa, OK, this restaurant comparison will help you uncover your next favorite dining spots, leveraging Chicago's renowned eateries as a benchmark. Whether you're in search of upscale dining, a casual bite, or a unique foodie experience, this guide assists in recreating those memorable meals in your new hometown.
| Chicago | Tulsa | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Juniper | Exquisite fine dining, focus on presentation and creativity |
| Portillo’s | Coney I-Lander | Classic, nostalgia-infused hot dogs with a local twist |
| Girl & The Goat | Stonehorse Cafe | Inventive dishes in a lively, upscale setting |
| The Purple Pig | Tavolo | Italian-inspired, with an emphasis on shared plates and charcuterie |
| Giordano’s | Andolini's Pizzeria | Authentic deep-dish pizzas and an Italian flair |
| Rick Bayless’ Frontera Grill | Mi Cocina | High-quality, innovative Mexican cuisine |
| Smoque BBQ | Burn Co Barbecue | Famed for its hickory-smoked meats and casual vibe |
| Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | White River Fish Market | Renowned for its fresh seafood selection and classic steak options |
| Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe | Bramble Breakfast & Bar | Known for its creative breakfast items and homey ambiance |
| Big Star | Elote Cafe & Catering | A fresh take on Mexican street food with a lively atmosphere |
Transplanting from Chicago to Tulsa doesn't mean leaving your favorite dining experiences behind. For instance, Alinea's innovative and high-end dining can be somewhat mirrored at Juniper in Tulsa, where you will find a focus on fine dining and culinary creativity that's rare in the region. Meanwhile, pizza lovers feeling the absence of Giordano’s deep-dish pies might find solace at Andolini's Pizzeria, celebrated for its genuine deep-dish pizza and an engaging Italian dining experience. Additionally, if the casual yet flavorsome BBQ from Smoque BBQ has been a go-to, Burn Co Barbecue in Tulsa will not disappoint with its dedication to perfecting hickory-smoked meats, capturing the essence of American barbecue culture. This comparison isn't just about finding similar restaurants; it's about discovering new favorites that resonate with what you cherished back in Chicago.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Tulsa Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is crucial when considering a move. Understanding how the housing markets, costs, and lifestyles of Chicago, IL, and Tulsa, OK compare can help you make an informed decision. This comparison will illuminate differences in cost, architecture, and urban living between these cities.
| Comparison | Chicago | Tulsa |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Brick Bungalows, Greystones | Art Deco, Ranch Style |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake Michigan views, proximity to public transport | Large lots, historic neighborhoods |
Chicago and Tulsa offer distinct living experiences shaped by differences in urban density, architecture, and lifestyle. Chicago's higher walkability and bikeability scores reflect its dense urban fabric, complete with an extensive public transportation network that connects diverse neighborhoods filled with Brick Bungalows and Greystone homes. This urban landscape contrasts with Tulsa's spacious Art Deco and Ranch-style homes set in broader, less walkable spaces that celebrate the city's rich history and large lot sizes. Despite the lower costs of living in Tulsa, Chicago's magnetic urban lifestyle, marked by access to Lake Michigan and an array of cultural amenities, constitutes a compelling allure for those who crave city life.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tulsa, OK
1. Brookside: With its array of pet-friendly patios at local eateries, you and your furry friend can enjoy dining experiences together.
2. Riverside: Boasting the expansive River Parks with miles of trails, your pet can enjoy plenty of outdoor exercise and you can take in some beautiful views of the Arkansas River.
3. Cherry Street: Home to a welcoming atmosphere for pets with several dog-friendly shops and an annual pet parade, making it a vibrant community for pet owners.
Chicago vs. Tulsa Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Chicago, IL to Tulsa, OK, it’s crucial to understand how the local climate may differ from what you're accustomed to. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and prepare better for your new home. The weather comparison between these two cities will highlight key climate differences and what to expect throughout the year.
Chicago, IL
Tulsa, OK
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Tulsa, OK
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Tulsa, OK
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Tulsa, OK
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Tulsa |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Winter storms, blizzards | Tornadoes, severe thunderstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The transition from Chicago's cooler, more variable climate to Tulsa's warmer and sunnier weather means lighter winters and hotter summers for you. While both cities enjoy a semblance of all four seasons, Tulsa offers significantly more sunny days annually, allowing for more outdoor activities year-round. The shift in humidity and UV index may also necessitate changes in your daily routines, particularly concerning skincare and hydration. Furthermore, preparing for Tulsa’s severe weather conditions, especially during tornado season, will be crucial. Overall, adapting to Tulsa’s climate can enhance your comfort and health post-move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Tulsa
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to explore how your finances will be impacted. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in money and finance from Chicago, IL to Tulsa, OK, providing a clear picture of what to expect in terms of living costs and economic environment.
| Comparison | Chicago | Tulsa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $51,008 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 88.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 5.0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.16 | 0.87 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 8.92 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Energy, Aerospace, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Moderate |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Less noticeable |
Moving from Chicago to Tulsa will bring a considerable change in your financial landscape. Tulsa's lower cost of living index signifies that your money can stretch further, especially when it comes to housing, as evidenced by the significantly lower average property tax rate. However, it's important to note that despite Tulsa's appealing lower sales and property taxes, the state income tax rate stands at a near parity with Illinois. This balance means that while some expenses will decrease, others, like state income tax, won't offer much relief. The different industrial landscapes of the two cities also suggest potential changes in career opportunities, with Tulsa having a strong focus on energy and aerospace, contrasting with Chicago's finance and healthcare-dominated market.
Chicago vs. Tulsa Political & Religious Comparison
In this snapshot, we offer a brief glance at the comparison of the politics between Chicago & Tulsa as well as the religious landscape of both cities you're moving from and to. This comparison will help you understand the general atmosphere and community values you'll be transitioning into.
| Chicago | Tulsa | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Lean Conservative/Republican |
| Local Politics | Liberal, with strong union presence | Conservative, with an emphasis on small government |
| Religion | Diverse; notable presence of Catholic, Jewish, Muslim communities | Primarily Christian, with a significant Evangelical presence |
When considering your move from Chicago to Tulsa, you'll notice a stark difference in the political leanings and religious atmosphere of each city. Chicago's political scene is dominantly Democratic, influenced heavily by liberal policies and a robust union presence. This contrasts with Tulsa, where conservative views and small government principles are more prevalent. Religious composition also differs; while both cities boast diverse religious communities, Tulsa has a notable Evangelical Christian presence, unlike Chicago's broad spectrum encompassing Catholic, Jewish, and Muslim faiths. Understanding these aspects will help you better integrate and find your niche in Tulsa.
Chicago vs. Tulsa Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When planning a move from Chicago, IL, to Tulsa, OK, understanding how your daily commute might change is crucial. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Tulsa will help you gauge what to expect in terms of navigating around your new city - whether by car or public transit.
| Comparison | Chicago | Tulsa |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 21 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
Chicago's robust public transit system, including the CTA buses and trains, makes it possible to live comfortably without a car. In Tulsa, however, the lower availability of public transit might require you to rely more on personal vehicles for daily commutes and errands. This might be offset by the shorter average commute times and less traffic congestion compared to Chicago. Adapting to the transportation differences will be an essential part of your move, planning for a possible vehicle purchase if you don't already own one or familiarizing yourself with Tulsa's public transit options to best fit your lifestyle.
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