Moving from Chicago to Chattanooga?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Chicago to Chattanooga Movers

Moving between cities represents an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. Transitioning from Chicago's Windy City charm and bustling streets to Chattanooga's Scenic City allure and serene landscapes means leaving behind one iconic lifestyle for another. It's essential to ensure this significant journey is smooth, which is why choosing trusted and reliable professional movers, like us at Great Guys Moving, is crucial for your long-distance move.

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

5 Best Chicago to Chattanooga 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
Boundless Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,378+ data points

Cleveland, TN
Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 2798532 Verify

About Boundless Moving & Storage

Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers re...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in chattanooga 2023 boundless moving storage image
top 10 ranked movers in chattanooga 2022 boundless moving storage 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
Smooth Moving & Storage Logo
Superb

based on 346+ data points

Nashville, TN
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Residential moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 2472874 Verify

About Smooth Moving & Storage

Smooth Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering professional, reliable, and...Read More >>

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Relocating from Chicago to Chattanooga Neighborhood Guide

Planning a move can be daunting, especially when diving into a new city's neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we're here to offer a unique guide comparing Chicago, IL & Chattanooga, TN neighborhoods . This comparison aims to help you find areas in Chattanooga that resonate with your lifestyle and preferences in Chicago, providing a smoother relocation experience.

ChicagoChattanooga
Lincoln ParkNorth Shore

Vibrant arts scene, family-friendly

Wicker ParkSouthside

Trendy eateries, vibrant nightlife

The LoopDowntown Chattanooga

Business hub, cultural attractions

Gold CoastRiverview

Upscale living, exclusive boutiques

Hyde ParkSt. Elmo

Historic charm, diverse community

AndersonvilleBluff View Art District

Cultural enclave, artisanal offerings

River NorthWarehouse Row

Fashionable shops, urban loft living

Logan SquareHighland Park

Artsy, with historic homes

LakeviewSignal Mountain

Family-oriented, outdoor activities

PilsenEast Brainerd

Diverse cultural experiences, dining options

In Chicago, the vibrancy and culture of Lincoln Park find a match in Chattanooga's North Shore, known for its scenic views and rich arts scene, including spots like The Hunter Museum of American Art. If nightlife and trendy dining are what draw you to Wicker Park, you'll find a similar spirit in Chattanooga's Southside, boasting popular eateries like Alleia. For those attracted to the urban allure and convenience of The Loop, Downtown Chattanooga encapsulates a comparable essence with its array of businesses and cultural attractions such as the Tennessee Aquarium. Riverview's exclusive boutiques and upscale atmosphere echo the Gold Coast's luxury, while St. Elmo's historic charm offers a nod to Hyde Park's eclectic and diverse background. This comparison aims not just to highlight similarities but also to honor what makes each neighborhood unique, providing a bridge between your current and future communities.

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Things to Do in Chattanooga

  • Explore Tennessee Aquarium
  • Hike Lookout Mountain
  • Visit Ruby Falls
  • Ride the Incline Railway
  • Stroll through Bluff View Art District
  • Shop at Chattanooga Market

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Chattanooga

Moving from one city to another can be a challenging decision, packed with both excitement and apprehension. The purpose of the following charts is to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Chattanooga, TN. By comparing the cons to the pros and vice versa, we aim to offer valuable insights that can help guide your decision-making process.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • High cost of living
  • Cold winters
  • Heavy traffic
  • Higher crime rates
  • Less green space
Chattanooga, TN iconChattanooga, TN
  • Lower cost of living
  • Milder winters
  • Less congestion
  • Lower crime rates
  • More outdoor activities
Chattanooga, TN iconChattanooga, TN
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Narrower job market
  • Limited public transit
  • Fewer high-end dining options
  • Less historical depth
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Diverse culture
  • Broad job market
  • Extensive public transit
  • World-class dining
  • Rich in history

Moving to Chattanooga from Chicago, you'll notice a remarkable shift in your daily reality. The frigid Chicago winters give way to the milder climate of Chattanooga, where outdoor enthusiasts thrive, exploring places like the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park. The heavy congestion of Chicago's streets becomes a memory with Chattanooga's ease of navigation, making trips to popular spots like the breathtaking Tennessee Aquarium and vibrant NorthShore district a breeze. And while Chicago's dining scene is hard to beat, Chattanooga offers its own unique flavors with restaurants like Aretha Frankensteins and Alleia, sure to delight any foodie. Lower cost of living and a close-knit community feel in Chattanooga contrast sharply with Chicago's bustling urban life, presenting an inviting opportunity for those seeking change.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Chicago to Chattanooga

This comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Chattanooga highlights the distinct flavor profiles and dining scenes you’ll delve into. From iconic dishes to the vibrancy of the foodie culture, this guide is your compass to navigating the culinary landscapes of your new city.

ChicagoChattanooga

Most iconic local food item

Deep Dish PizzaBarbecue Ribs

Most popular meat dish

Italian Beef SandwichSmoked Pork

Most popular street food item

Chicago-style Hot DogChattanooga Dogs

Most popular vegan food

Seitan WingsBBQ Jackfruit Sandwich

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Alinea
  • Portillo's
  • Allen Family Barbecue
  • Hennen's
  • Aretha Frankenstein’s

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

97

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

87

In Chicago, the deep dish pizza reigns supreme, with historic eateries like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria leading the charge in showcasing the city's iconic culinary masterpiece. Meanwhile, Chattanooga’s barbecue scene, particularly the smoked pork served at venues like Allen Family Barbecue, offers a taste of Southern tradition that’s hard to beat. Chattanooga Dogs, a local take on street food, reflects the city’s love for reinvented classics. Furthermore, health-conscious eats are on the rise in both cities, with Chattanooga slightly leading in overall fitness and health conscientiousness. For vegans, Chattanooga's Aretha Frankenstein’s offers innovative plant-based dishes, proving that the South can do more than just traditional barbecue.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Chicago to Chattanooga

Food is integral to making somewhere feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition from Chicago, IL to Chattanooga, TN. By using Chicago to Chattanooga restaurant comparison as your culinary guide , you'll discover new local haunts that replicate the vibe and cuisine of your old Chicago favorites, ensuring the move feels as seamless as possible.

AlineaSt. John's Restaurant

Upscale dining with innovative dishes.

Portillo's Hot DogsGood Dog

Quirky, casual spot for elevated hot dogs.

Girl & The GoatAlleia

Rustic, inventive Italian cuisine, akin to Girl & The Goat's approach.

Lou Malnati's PizzeriaLupi's Pizza Pies

Authentic, family-friendly pizzeria with a local vibe.

The Purple PigPublic House

Offers a variety of shared plates in a relaxed setting.

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabBoathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar

Fresh seafood and prime meats with a view.

Smoque BBQCharlie’s BBQ & Bakery

Known for slow-cooked meats and homemade sides.

Rick Bayless' Frontera GrillTaconooga

Offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients.

The Berghoff RestaurantWalden Club

While not German, it offers an iconic dining experience with history.

Au ChevalTremont Tavern

Renowned for their gourmet burgers in a cozy tavern setting.

Chicago and Chattanooga offer diverse culinary landscapes, each with its unique charm. In Chattanooga, St. John's Restaurant mirrors the high-end feel of Alinea, albeit with its own Southern flair, making it perfect for those special dining occasions. If it's the casual, yet iconic vibe of Portillo's you're missing, Good Dog fills that void with an array of unique hot dog creations and a laid-back atmosphere. For pizza lovers lamenting their distance from Lou Malnati's, Lupi's Pizza Pies offers handmade pizzas that echo the quality and comfort found back in Chicago. Each Chattanooga establishment brings a taste of Chicago's culinary spirit, paired with local Tennessee charm, making the transition just a little easier for newcomers.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Chicago to Chattanooga

When planning a move, comparing real estate between your current city and future home is essential. Knowing how Chicago and Chattanooga stack up against each other in terms of housing cost, architecture, walkability , and urban lifestyle can significantly inform your decision. Let's delve into these aspects to better understand your potential new surroundings.

When comparing housing aspects between Chicago and Chattanooga, it's clear that each city offers a unique living experience. Chicago's higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores reflect its dense, bustling cityscape which is complemented by modern architecture and a wealth of amenities - a big draw for those seeking a vibrant city life. On the other hand, Chattanooga prides itself on its scenic views and privacy, reflected in its prevalent bungalow and craftsman-style homes. The significant difference in median home prices and rent also indicates Chattanooga's more affordable living conditions. Choosing between the two cities might come down to what you value more: the hustle and dynamism of Chicago or the scenic, laid-back charm of Chattanooga.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chattanooga, TN

1. North Shore: Your furry friend will love exploring the spacious Renaissance Park and cooling off in the designated dog areas.

2. St. Elmo: This neighborhood is ideal for pet owners with its easy access to the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, offering plenty of trails and green spaces for your pets to enjoy.

3. Highland Park: Known for its friendly community and walkable streets, you and your pet can enjoy daily walks to local pet-friendly cafes and the nearby Warner Park.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Chattanooga

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison will help you gauge how life in Chicago, IL differs from Chattanooga, TN in terms of climate. From average temperatures and humidity to natural disasters and air quality, knowing what to expect can make your transition smoother.

Summer icon
83/63

Chicago, IL

89/68

Chattanooga, TN

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35/22

Chicago, IL

50/30

Chattanooga, TN

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

53

Chattanooga, TN

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

3

Chattanooga, TN

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Chicago to Chattanooga brings a notable change in weather, particularly in terms of temperature and precipitation. Chattanooga enjoys milder winters and slightly warmer summers than Chicago, coupled with more days of sunshine, which might be a welcome change for those used to Chicago's often harsh winters. However, this comes with higher annual rainfall in Chattanooga, enhancing the greenery but also increasing humidity and mold, which might affect those with allergies. While both cities grapple with their share of natural disasters, Chattanooga's risk of tornadoes and floods contrasts with the cold-related events more common in Chicago, necessitating different preparedness measures.

Ready to start your move?

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

When relocating, it’s essential to grasp how financial aspects will shift. This comparison aims to illuminate the variations in financial factors between moving from Chicago, IL to Chattanooga, TN, offering a clearer picture of what to expect economically in your new home.

While both cities offer unique economic landscapes, key differences emerge in cost-related factors. For example, Chicago's higher average household income is contextually balanced by a higher cost of living than Chattanooga. Notably, Chattanooga does not impose a state income tax, which could result in significant savings for you. Furthermore, the lower property taxes in Chattanooga may make home-ownership more attainable and financially beneficial in the long term. These economic conditions reflect the broader industrial and fiscal environment that shapes each city, with Chattanooga offering a potentially more affordable living situation without compromising on employment opportunities in thriving sectors.

Political & Religious Comparison between Chicago, IL and Chattanooga, TN

If you're planning a move, it's useful to understand the community you're joining. This comparison provides a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of the residents in Chicago, IL & Chattanooga, TN . Knowing these aspects can help you better integrate and find your niche in your new home.

ChicagoChattanooga

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocraticModerately conservative/Republican

Local Politics

Democratic stronghold, diverse representationRepublican, with growing progressive representation

Religion

Diverse: Christianity, Judaism, Islam, among othersPrimarily Christian, with a mix of denominations

When moving from Chicago to Chattanooga, you'll transition from a city known for its Democratic leanings to one that traditionally aligns more conservatively, although recent years have seen a progressive increase in representation within local politics in Chattanooga. Chicago's religious landscape is broad, reflecting its multicultural population, with significant Jewish, Muslim, and various Christian denominations present. In contrast, Chattanooga has a stronger evangelical Christian presence, though like Chicago, it is home to a variety of faiths. This contrast in political and religious atmospheres can offer a fresh perspective and new opportunities for community involvement and understanding.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Chattanooga

Moving from one city to another can feel like navigating a maze, especially when it comes to understanding local transportation dynamics. This guide aims to ease the transition by providing a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Chattanooga, helping to better understand what your daily commute and traffic might be like in your new home.

ChicagoChattanooga
3425

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

74

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

83

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

YesNo

Can you get by without car?

Living in Chicago, you might be accustomed to robust public transportation options, such as the extensive CTA system, that make it feasible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. The average commute time reflects the city's dense traffic patterns, yet the convenience of public transit somewhat alleviates this. On the other hand, moving to Chattanooga introduces a different dynamic. With less traffic congestion and a shorter average commute time, the city presents a smoother driving experience. However, the public transit system is not as developed as Chicago's, making car ownership almost a necessity for getting around efficiently. This comparison sheds light on essential considerations for your daily commute and overall lifestyle adjustment in your new city.

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