Best Chicago to Knoxville Movers and Practical Moving Guide
Get a Quote Now!
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
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.
Best Chicago to Knoxville 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 |
| Boundless Moving & Storage | 9.33 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| A1 Movers, Inc | 9.33 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Buster’s Box’s Moving | 8.98 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
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)
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
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
About A1 Movers, Inc
A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company offers ...Read More >>
Services
- LOCAL MOVES
- LONG DISTANCE MOVES
- PACKING SERVICES
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
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. 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.
| Chicago | Knoxville | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Sequoyah Hills | Lush parks, family-friendly |
| Wicker Park | Old North Knox | Vibrant arts scene, historic |
| Gold Coast | Sequoyah Hills | Affluent, waterfront homes |
| Loop | Downtown Knoxville | Bustling business district |
| River North | Market Square | Dining, shopping, entertainment |
| Andersonville | 4th & Gill | Cozy, historic homes |
| Lakeview | Bearden | Eclectic, community-centric |
| Hyde Park | Fort Sanders | Diverse, historic, educational |
| Logan Square | North Hills | Artsy, emerging |
| Rogers Park | West 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.
Things to Do in Knoxville
- Visit World's Fair Park
- Stroll through Knoxville Botanical Garden
- Enjoy a show at Tennessee Theatre
- Shop at Market Square
- Watch a game at Neyland Stadium
- Taste local brews at Smoky Mountain Brewery
Ready to start your move?
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.
Chicago, IL- Higher crime rate
- Cold winters
- Higher cost of living
- Dense traffic
- Less green space
Knoxville, TN- Lower crime rate
- Milder winters
- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- More green space
Knoxville, TN- Smaller cultural scene
- Limited public transport
- More limited dining
- Fewer sports teams
- Narrower job market
Chicago, 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.
| Chicago | Knoxville | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep-Dish Pizza | Biscuits and Gravy |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | BBQ Ribs |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style Hot Dog | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Chicago Diner's Vegan Shake | Vegan BBQ |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| 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 .
| Chicago | Knoxville | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | The Plaid Apron | innovative cuisine with a focus on fine dining |
| Portillo's | Stock & Barrel | known for their unique burgers, mirrors Portillo’s casual yet iconic vibe |
| Girl & The Goat | Emilia | offers inventive dishes that showcase the depth of Italian cuisine, similar to the eclectic options at Girl & The Goat |
| Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Hard Knox Pizza | authentic wood-fired pizzas that give a nod to Chicago's deep dish tradition |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Chesapeake’s | fresh seafood and prime steaks that rival the quality and experience of Joe's |
| Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | Ye Olde Steak House | a Knoxville staple with a traditional, high-end steakhouse feel similar to Gibsons |
| Roister | The French Market Creperie | offers a cozy dining experience with a unique flair, akin to Roister’s innovative approach |
| Rick Bayless’ Frontera Grill | Chef’s Asian Kitchen | for a blend of creative and traditional dishes that reflect the innovative spirit of Frontera Grill |
| The Purple Pig | A Dopo Sourdough Pizza | focuses on shareable plates in a casual but sophisticated setting, similar to The Purple Pig's ethos |
| Big Star | SoKno 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.
Ready to start your move?
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.
| Comparison | Chicago | Knoxville |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Georgian | Craftsman and Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, proximity to parks | Mountain 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 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.
Chicago, IL
Knoxville, TN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Knoxville, TN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Knoxville, TN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Knoxville, TN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Knoxville |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Cold Waves | Thunderstorms, 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.
Ready to start your move?
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.
| Comparison | Chicago | Knoxville |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $45,700 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 89.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | None |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.12 | 0.68 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology | Manufacturing, Retail, Health Services |
| Affluence | Moderate to High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Notable | Lower than Chicago |
| Homelessness | Significant | Lesser 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.
| Chicago | Knoxville | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Moderately Republican |
| Local Politics | Focused on urban policy, social justice | Community development, economic growth |
| Religion | Diverse, with significant Catholic presence | Primarily 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.
| Comparison | Chicago | Knoxville |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
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.
Popular Chicago, IL to Tennessee Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes
Nearby Moving Routes
