Moving from Chicago to Knoxville?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate 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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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Knoxville to Chicago guide.

5 Best Chicago to Knoxville Movers

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

#1
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 >>

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#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 9/5/2024)

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 >>

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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 9/6/2024)

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 9/5/2024)

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
#5
Gouffon Moving & Storage Logo
Fabulous

based on 1,067+ data points

Knoxville, TN
Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving, Office Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 553340 Verify

About Gouffon Moving & Storage

Family-owned and operated for more than 134 years, Gouffon Moving & Storage offers personalized residential and office moves in East Ten...Read More >>

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top ranked movers in knoxville 2022 gouffon moving storage image

Relocating from Chicago to Knoxville Neighborhood Guide

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.

ChicagoKnoxville
Lincoln ParkSequoyah Hills

Lush parks, family-friendly

Wicker ParkOld North Knox

Vibrant arts scene, historic

Gold CoastSequoyah Hills

Affluent, waterfront homes

LoopDowntown Knoxville

Bustling business district

River NorthMarket Square

Dining, shopping, entertainment

Andersonville4th & Gill

Cozy, historic homes

LakeviewBearden

Eclectic, community-centric

Hyde ParkFort Sanders

Diverse, historic, educational

Logan SquareNorth Hills

Artsy, emerging

Rogers ParkWest Hills

Diverse, 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.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Chicago to Knoxville

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 item

Deep-Dish PizzaBiscuits and Gravy

Most popular meat dish

Italian BeefBBQ Ribs

Most popular street food item

Chicago-style Hot DogFood Truck Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Chicago Diner's Vegan ShakeVegan BBQ

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Au Cheval

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

76

Abundance of Food Trucks

87

Foodie Scene

97

Vegan Friendly

86

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.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Chicago to Knoxville

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 .

AlineaThe Plaid Apron

innovative cuisine with a focus on fine dining

Portillo'sStock & Barrel

known for their unique burgers, mirrors Portillo’s casual yet iconic vibe

Girl & The GoatEmilia

offers inventive dishes that showcase the depth of Italian cuisine, similar to the eclectic options at Girl & The Goat

Lou Malnati's PizzeriaHard Knox Pizza

authentic wood-fired pizzas that give a nod to Chicago's deep dish tradition

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabChesapeake’s

fresh seafood and prime steaks that rival the quality and experience of Joe's

Gibsons Bar & SteakhouseYe Olde Steak House

a Knoxville staple with a traditional, high-end steakhouse feel similar to Gibsons

RoisterThe French Market Creperie

offers a cozy dining experience with a unique flair, akin to Roister’s innovative approach

Rick Bayless’ Frontera GrillChef’s Asian Kitchen

for a blend of creative and traditional dishes that reflect the innovative spirit of Frontera Grill

The Purple PigA Dopo Sourdough Pizza

focuses on shareable plates in a casual but sophisticated setting, similar to The Purple Pig's ethos

Big StarSoKno Taco Cantina

vibrant 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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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Chicago to Knoxville

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.

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.

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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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Knoxville

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)

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.

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.

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

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-up

Primarily DemocraticModerately Republican

Local Politics

Focused on urban policy, social justiceCommunity development, economic growth

Religion

Diverse, 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.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Knoxville

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.

ChicagoKnoxville
3422

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?

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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