Best Chicago to Knoxville Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Chicago to Knoxville Movers

Moving from the hustle of the Windy City to Knoxville's Southern charm offers an exciting chapter in your life. You're trading the iconic skyline and deep-dish pizzas of Chicago for the scenic beauty and welcoming community of the Marble City. With such a significant journey ahead, it's vital you choose trusted and reliable professional movers, and that's where we come in. Our unbiased ranking algorithm at Great Guys Moving ensures you're matched with the best, making your transition smooth and worry-free.

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Best Chicago to Knoxville Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
Boundless Moving & Storage9.33A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
H2H Movers Inc9.24AAuthorized For HHGContact
Buster’s Box’s Moving9.00NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Knoxville to Chicago guide.

5 Best Chicago to Knoxville Moving Companies

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

606 Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,152+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Move-tastic! Logo
Exceptional9.35/10
based on 10,649+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers26
Total Annual Miles Moved86,474 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Boundless Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,378+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2798532 / 934519

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved358,520 (2022)
View Full Review
3
H2H Movers Inc Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.24/10
based on 8,231+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2428328 / 836885

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved359,681 (2024)
View Full Review
4
Buster’s Box’s Moving Logo
Superb9.00/10
based on 430+ data points

About Buster’s Box’s Moving

Buster’s Box’s Moving is a Knoxville, TN-based moving company that offers a variety of services including local moves, out of state moves, o...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4125824 / 1578852

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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. Knoxville Neighborhood Comparison

When relocating, it helps to find a bit of your old neighborhood in your new city. This guide aims to compare local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Knoxville, TN, offering a smooth transition by identifying comparable neighborhoods. Dive into the similarities that make each pair a match and ease your move.

ChicagoKnoxvilleHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkSequoyah HillsLush parks, family-friendly
Wicker ParkOld North KnoxVibrant arts scene, historic
Gold CoastSequoyah HillsAffluent, waterfront homes
LoopDowntown KnoxvilleBustling business district
River NorthMarket SquareDining, shopping, entertainment
Andersonville4th & GillCozy, historic homes
LakeviewBeardenEclectic, community-centric
Hyde ParkFort SandersDiverse, historic, educational
Logan SquareNorth HillsArtsy, emerging
Rogers ParkWest HillsDiverse, family-oriented

In Lincoln Park, the allure of vast green spaces like Lincoln Park itself, coupled with the family-friendly atmosphere, is mirrored in Sequoyah Hills with its picturesque parks and community vibe. Wicker Park’s dynamic arts scene and historical architecture find a Southerner counterpart in Old North Knox, where the artistically inclined and history buffs feel right at home. For those accustomed to the upscale ambiance of the Gold Coast, Sequoyah Hills offers a similarly affluent experience with stunning waterfront homes along Tennessee River shores. Meanwhile, the Loop's commercial buzz is reflected in Downtown Knoxville, where business and leisure intersect. A standout comparison is between Andersonville’s diverse and inclusive community, known for its local businesses and historic charm, and 4th & Gill in Knoxville, which boasts a unique identity through its cozy homes and tight-knit community. This transition guide underscores the possibility of finding a slice of your Chicago neighborhood in Knoxville, ensuring the move feels less like a leap into the unknown and more like stepping into a familiar space.

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Things to Do in Knoxville

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Knoxville

Moving from one city to another offers a blend of challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from Chicago, IL to Knoxville, TN. By comparing the pros and cons directly, you'll gain a clearer insight into what this relocation entails.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher crime rate
  • Cold winters
  • Higher cost of living
  • Dense traffic
  • Less green space
Knoxville, TN iconKnoxville, TN
  • Lower crime rate
  • Milder winters
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • More green space
Knoxville, TN iconKnoxville, TN
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Limited public transport
  • More limited dining
  • Fewer sports teams
  • Narrower job market
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant cultural scene
  • Extensive public transport
  • Diverse dining options
  • Major sports teams
  • Broad job market

Moving to Knoxville, TN from Chicago, IL presents an exciting opportunity to enjoy milder winters and a lower cost of living without sacrificing the charm and comfort of urban life. Knoxville offers an array of outdoor activities and green spaces such as the Knoxville Botanical Garden and World's Fair Park, catering to nature lovers and families alike. While you might miss Chicago's diverse dining scene, Knoxville still boasts its own culinary gems like Yassin's Falafel House and A Dopo Sourdough Pizza, known for their welcoming environments and delicious offerings. Despite a smaller cultural scene, the city's community is vibrant, hosting various annual events like the Dogwood Arts Festival that bring locals and visitors together, creating a sense of tight-knit community.

Chicago vs. Knoxville Food Guide

When you're moving to a new city, exploring local cuisine is an adventure in itself. Food profoundly affects the local culture and your everyday life. To give you a headstart in this culinary journey, we'll make a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Knoxville so you can anticipate the flavors and dining experiences that await in your new home.

ChicagoKnoxville
Most iconic local food itemDeep-Dish PizzaBiscuits and Gravy
Most popular meat dishItalian BeefBBQ Ribs
Most popular street food itemChicago-style Hot DogFood Truck Tacos
Most popular vegan foodChicago Diner's Vegan ShakeVegan BBQ
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Au Cheval
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Chicago, the deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria stands as a testament to the city’s rich culinary landscape, whereas in Knoxville, the traditional comfort food, biscuits and gravy, showcases Southern hospitality and warmth. Knoxville's growing food scene, particularly in areas like Market Square and the Old City, offers an assortment of dining experiences from casual food truck fares to upscale dining options like The Plaid Apron. On the other hand, Chicago's diverse neighborhoods such as the West Loop are bursting with innovative eateries and timeless classics, reflecting the city's cosmopolitan and inclusive approach to food. Whether it’s the street food or the diverse vegan offerings, both cities cater to a range of dietary preferences and culinary inclinations.

Chicago vs. Knoxville Restaurant Comparison

When relocating from one city to another, finding your new favorite spots can be daunting, especially when it comes to food. That's why we've outlined a comparison between top Chicago eateries and their Knoxville counterparts. This guide is aimed to ease your transition by helping you discover your next go-to restaurants in Knoxville, using Chicago's culinary scene as a benchmark .

ChicagoKnoxvilleWhat You'll Love
AlineaThe Plaid Aproninnovative cuisine with a focus on fine dining
Portillo'sStock & Barrelknown for their unique burgers, mirrors Portillo’s casual yet iconic vibe
Girl & The GoatEmiliaoffers inventive dishes that showcase the depth of Italian cuisine, similar to the eclectic options at Girl & The Goat
Lou Malnati's PizzeriaHard Knox Pizzaauthentic wood-fired pizzas that give a nod to Chicago's deep dish tradition
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabChesapeake’sfresh seafood and prime steaks that rival the quality and experience of Joe's
Gibsons Bar & SteakhouseYe Olde Steak Housea Knoxville staple with a traditional, high-end steakhouse feel similar to Gibsons
RoisterThe French Market Creperieoffers a cozy dining experience with a unique flair, akin to Roister’s innovative approach
Rick Bayless’ Frontera GrillChef’s Asian Kitchenfor a blend of creative and traditional dishes that reflect the innovative spirit of Frontera Grill
The Purple PigA Dopo Sourdough Pizzafocuses on shareable plates in a casual but sophisticated setting, similar to The Purple Pig's ethos
Big StarSoKno Taco Cantinavibrant and bustling, offering inventive tacos that remind one of Big Star's lively atmosphere

Diving deeper into the gastronomic journey from Chicago to Knoxville, individuals moving to Knoxville will find comfort in establishments like Stock & Barrel, which not only echoes the casual and beloved nature of Portillo’s but also embraces a dedication to crafting unique and delightful burgers. For pizza aficionados mourning the distance from Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, Hard Knox Pizza stands ready with its authentic wood-fired pizzas that capture the essence of hearty Chicago-style pies in a way that's both authentic and fresh. Lastly, lovers of fine dining who cherished moments at Alinea will discover The Plaid Apron, a place where innovation meets the art of cuisine, offering an intimate fine dining experience that stimulates both the mind and the palate, reminiscent of Chicago's top-tier culinary delights.

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Chicago vs. Knoxville Real Estate & Living Facts

Understanding the differences in real estate between Chicago, IL, and Knoxville, TN is crucial for anyone planning a move. This comparison will highlight key aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle, providing a clear picture of what to expect in your new city.

ComparisonChicagoKnoxville
Typical Architecture StyleModern and GeorgianCraftsman and Colonial
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLake views, proximity to parksMountain views, large yards

Moving from Chicago to Knoxville, you'll find differences in housing costs and lifestyles. Chicago's higher home prices and rent reflect its urban appeal and amenities like parks and lake views. However, Knoxville offers a more relaxed atmosphere with mountain views and larger yards for a lower cost, appealing to those preferring a quieter, nature-centric lifestyle. The architecture in Knoxville tends to be more traditional, with many homes featuring Craftsman and Colonial styles, contrasting with Chicago's modern and Georgian influences.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Knoxville, TN

1. Sequoyah Hills: With expansive green spaces like Sequoyah Park, your pets can enjoy long walks along the Tennessee River, making it a haven for dog owners.

2. Bearden: Bearden offers a pet-friendly community vibe, with numerous farmers' markets and outdoor cafes where your pets are welcome to join you.

3. Old City: The Old City neighborhood is bustling with pet-friendly bars and restaurants, alongside stylish boutiques that often allow pets to accompany their owners while shopping.

Chicago vs. Knoxville Weather Considerations

When relocating, it's crucial to grasp how the weather in your new city compares to what you're accustomed to. This comparison between Chicago, IL, and Knoxville, TN, will highlight key climatic differences, helping you prepare for your move.

Summer icon
85°F / 68°F

Chicago, IL

87°F / 66°F

Knoxville, TN

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
32°F / 18°F

Chicago, IL

47°F / 29°F

Knoxville, TN

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

50

Knoxville, TN

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

6

Knoxville, TN

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonChicagoKnoxville
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersBlizzards, Cold WavesThunderstorms, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In moving from Chicago to Knoxville, you'll experience milder winters and slightly more humid summers. Knoxville enjoys more days of sunshine annually, which might be a relief if you're used to Chicago's frequently cloudy skies. The significant difference in annual snowfall—36 inches in Chicago to just 6 inches in Knoxville—means winter in your new city will be less about shoveling snow and more about enjoying the outdoors. While Knoxville has a higher overall humidity level, it benefits from better air quality, a crucial factor if you or a family member are sensitive to air pollution. Knowing these differences can help you adjust more comfortably to your new environment.

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

When planning a move from one city to another, assessing financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to help you grasp how living in Knoxville, TN financially contrasts with Chicago, IL, covering aspects from income to taxes and the overall cost of living. Understanding these differences will prepare you for the financial aspects of your relocation.

ComparisonChicagoKnoxville
Avg. Household Income$66,576$45,700
Cost of Living Index116.989.4
State Income Tax4.95None
Avg. Property Tax2.120.68
Avg. Sales Tax10.259.25
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Manufacturing, Information TechnologyManufacturing, Retail, Health Services
AffluenceModerate to HighModerate
PovertyNotableLower than Chicago
HomelessnessSignificantLesser than Chicago

While both Chicago and Knoxville boast vibrant economies, financial nuances can greatly impact your living experience. For example, while the average household income in Chicago is higher, Knoxville's significantly lower cost of living and absence of state income tax may result in more disposable income for residents. Property taxes in Knoxville are also substantially lower, making homeownership more accessible and potentially more appealing. Moving from Chicago to Knoxville, you'll likely find the overall financial pressure to be lighter, allowing for a more comfortable and possibly more financially rewarding lifestyle.

Chicago vs. Knoxville Political & Religious Comparison

When relocating from Chicago, IL to Knoxville, TN, it's useful to understand the communities you’re moving between. This comparison between Chicago & Knoxville provides an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of residents, helping you anticipate the social climate you'll be transitioning into.

ChicagoKnoxville
Political Make-upPrimarily DemocraticModerately Republican
Local PoliticsFocused on urban policy, social justiceCommunity development, economic growth
ReligionDiverse, with significant Catholic presencePrimarily Evangelical Christian

In a move from Chicago to Knoxville, you'll navigate shifts in the political and religious landscapes. Chicago's Democratic lean contrasts with Knoxville's more Republican tendencies, reflecting varying local values and policy priorities. For instance, while Chicago emphasizes urban policy and social justice, Knoxville focuses on community development and economic growth. This signifies a nuanced engagement with local governance, hinting at different public dialogues you’ll encounter. Moreover, the religious atmosphere also transitions from a diverse blend in Chicago, highlighting a significant Catholic presence, to a predominantly Evangelical Christian demographic in Knoxville. Understanding these dynamics can help smooth your adjustment, connecting you to your new community's core social frameworks.

Chicago vs. Knoxville Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Chicago, IL to Knoxville, TN can bring significant changes to your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Knoxville will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these cities.

ComparisonChicagoKnoxville
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3422
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

When transitioning from Chicago to Knoxville, you'll notice a significant decrease in your average commute time. Chicago's robust public transportation system, including the CTA, allows residents to comfortably get by without a personal vehicle. Conversely, Knoxville’s less extensive public transit options make a car almost a necessity for efficient transportation. This stark contrast highlights the importance of taking your transportation needs into account when planning your move. While traffic congestion is also considerably less in Knoxville, the overall dependency on personal vehicles increases.

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