Best Chicago to Nashville Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Windy City to Music City marks an exhilarating chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. You're leaving behind Chicago's towering skyscrapers and bustling streets for Nashville's country tunes and warm southern hospitality. Recognizing the significance of this long-distance move, it's crucial to choose trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure a smooth transition. At Great Guys Moving, we utilize an unbiased ranking algorithm to help you find the best movers, making your journey to Nashville as seamless and stress-free as possible.
Best Chicago to Nashville Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Nashville to Chicago guide.
5 Best Chicago to Nashville 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 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 Little Guys Movers Nashville
Established in 1992, Little Guys Movers Nashville is a highly regarded franchise providing numerous moving and packing services. They cater ...Read More >>
Services
- Long Distance Moving
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
About 6th Man Movers
As a locally owned and operated moving company based in Nashville, Tennessee, 6th Man Movers serves Nashville residents with high-quality re...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance
- Labor Only
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. Nashville Neighborhood Comparison
Deciding to move from one city to another can be an exhilarating yet daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with your new home's neighborhoods. This comparison of local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Nashville, TN is designed to help you get acquainted with Nashville by drawing parallels with Chicago's diverse neighborhoods you may already know and love.
| Chicago | Nashville | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | 12 South | Family-friendly, boutique shopping |
| Loop | Downtown Nashville | Urban core, entertainment focus |
| Wicker Park | East Nashville | Artsy vibe, eclectic shops |
| Hyde Park | Belmont/Hillsboro | Historical homes, educational institutions |
| Gold Coast | Green Hills | Upscale living, high-end shopping |
| River North | The Gulch | Trendy dining, luxury condos |
| Old Town | Germantown | Charming architecture, community feel |
| Logan Square | Five Points | Diverse dining, vibrant nightlife |
| Andersonville | Sylvan Park | Quaint, local food scene |
| Lakeview | Hillsboro Village | Young energetic crowd, indie businesses |
If the bustling, artsy energy of Wicker Park is what you love about Chicago, you’ll find a kindred spirit in East Nashville, known for its vibrant arts scene and eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, such as the Five Points Pizza and The Basement East venue. Meanwhile, The Gulch mirrors River North's fusion of luxury condos with trendy dining spots like Biscuit Love and Sambuca, offering both a taste of sophistication and the pulse of city life in Nashville. For those attracted to the upscale and historic charm of Hyde Park, the Belmont/Hillsboro area in Nashville will feel like home, with its beautiful historical homes and proximity to academic institutions, exemplified by Belmont University and the surrounding cafes like Bongo Java.
Things to Do in Nashville
Explore Radnor Lake State Park- Enjoy live music at The Ryman Auditorium
- Visit Country Music Hall of Fame
- Walk the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
- Try hot chicken at Prince's
- Attend a Nashville Predators game
- Shop at 12 South
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Nashville
Moving from one city to another always comes with its share of challenges and joys. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Nashville, TN . The following charts lay out the pros and cons to help you make a more informed decision regarding this significant change in your life.
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- Higher cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Urban density
Nashville, TN- Milder winters
- More affordable
- Less traffic
- More green spaces
Nashville, TN- Smaller city feel
- Less cultural diversity
- Car-dependent
- More niche job market
Chicago, IL- Vibrant city life
- Rich cultural scene
- Extensive public transit
- Diverse job market
While Nashville's more temperate climate might be a relief after Chicago's icy winters, you'll find the job market to be different, possibly more focused on entertainment, healthcare, and education sectors. Nashville's reputation as Music City contributes to its lively cultural scene, albeit less diverse than Chicago's. The cost of living might ease your financial pressures, allowing for exploration of Nashville's abundant green spaces like Centennial Park. Still, you might miss Chicago's bustling urban environment and rich cultural diversity, evident in its neighborhood festivals, world-class restaurants like Alinea, and iconic sights such as The Bean in Millennium Park.
Chicago vs. Nashville Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Nashville is crucial for anyone moving and wanting to dive into the rich food scenes of their new city. Food is a vital aspect of local culture, influencing the living experience, and here, we're breaking down how these two cities stack up against each other culinary-wise.
| Chicago | Nashville | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep-dish pizza | Hot chicken |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian beef | BBQ Ribs |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style hot dog | Fried pickles |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan dishes | BBQ Jackfruit |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving from Chicago to Nashville, you're transitioning from the hearty, deep-dish pizzas and renowned "Chicago-style" hot dogs to the spicy allure of Nashville's hot chicken and innovative Southern cuisine. In Nashville, neighborhoods like East Nashville and The Gulch are gastronomic hotspots where you can find many of the city's top restaurants, such as Hattie B's for hot chicken that draws crowds from all over the country. The contrast in local cuisine reflects the rich diversity and cultural heritage of each city, offering an array of options for every palate. A bustling food truck scene and a growing emphasis on plant-based options in Nashville will also welcome new residents looking for variety and innovation in their dining experiences.
Chicago vs. Nashville Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins at the dinner table. This comparison between top Chicago restaurants and their Nashville counterparts is designed to ease your transition. Discover establishments that resonate with your culinary preferences and make Nashville feel like home.
| Chicago | Nashville | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | The Catbird Seat | Both offer unique, high-end dining experiences with tasting menus. |
| Girl & The Goat | Rolf and Daughters | Similar focus on innovative, globally inspired dishes in a trendy setting. |
| Portillo's | Hattie B's Hot Chicken | Both are iconic to their cities, offering a taste of local flavors. |
| Deep Dish Pizza (Lou Malnati's) | Five Points Pizza | Known for their quality pies that pay homage to their cities' traditions. |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | J. Alexander's | both are upscale restaurants known for their steaks and seafood. |
| Rick Bayless' Xoco | Mas Tacos Por Favor | Offering an authentic taste in both cities, focusing on Mexican street food. |
| The Purple Pig | The Farm House | Both emphasize farm-to-table dining, with a focus on seasonal ingredients. |
| Publican | Henrietta Red | Known for their seafood and vegetable-focused dishes in a chic atmosphere. |
| Smoque BBQ | Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint | Both deeply rooted in the tradition of their respective cities' BBQ styles. |
| Duck Duck Goat | Tánsuŏ | Offering contemporary takes on Chinese cuisine, bringing unique flavors to their cities. |
When in Nashville, you'll find a vibrant dining scene that echoes the spirit of Chicago's culinary diversity. For instance, just as Alinea transforms dining into an avant-garde experience, The Catbird Seat elevates meals with its creative tasting menus, inviting diners on a gastronomic journey. Similarly, the move from the iconic deep-dish pizzas of Lou Malnati's to the equally revered pies at Five Points Pizza promises a seamless transition for pizza aficionados. Those longing for the bold flavors of Mexican street food will feel right at home at Mas Tacos Por Favor, reminiscent of the authentic experience at Rick Bayless' Xoco. It's these similarities that not only ease the transition from Chicago to Nashville but also enrich the adventure of discovering your new culinary favorites.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Nashville Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, evaluating real estate aspects is crucial. Chicago, IL and Nashville, TN offer distinct living experiences. This comparison aims to highlight differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle to assist in your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Chicago | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Gothic | Victorian and Modern Farmhouse |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, Proximity to public transport | Large yards, Proximity to music venues |
While Chicago and Nashville offer unique living experiences, the choice largely depends on one's lifestyle preferences and housing budget. Chicago's real estate market is notable for its modern and Gothic architecture, alongside impressive lake views often highlighted in listings. The city scores higher in terms of walkability and urban lifestyle, fostering an environment where amenities are often just a short walk away. On the other hand, Nashville, known for its charming Victorian homes and modern farmhouse styles, offers large yards and close proximity to renowned music venues. It's a city where the car is still king, reflected in its lower walkability and bikeability scores. Whether you're drawn to Chicago's bustling city life and architectural marvels or Nashville's musical heartbeat and spacious homes, each city presents a distinctive appeal catering to varied tastes and budgets.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Nashville, TN
1. 12 South: This neighborhood boasts a friendly atmosphere with multiple pet-friendly cafes and boutiques, including the popular Frothy Monkey where you and your furry friend can enjoy a sunny day outside.
2. East Nashville: Known for its inclusive and laid-back vibe, East Nashville offers numerous dog parks and pet-friendly patios such as those at The Crying Wolf, ensuring your pet is always welcome.
3. Germantown: This neighborhood is a gem for pet owners, featuring walkable streets, pet-friendly restaurants like Von Elrod's Beer Hall & Kitchen, and easy access to the spacious Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park for long walks and outdoor adventures with your pet.
Chicago vs. Nashville Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Chicago, IL to Nashville, TN, understanding the differences in weather patterns is essential for a smooth transition. By comparing the weather conditions between these two cities, you can better prepare for what awaits you in your new home. This guide highlights key weather aspects such as temperature, humidity, and more to illustrate the contrast between Chicago and Nashville.
Chicago, IL
Nashville, TN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Nashville, TN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Nashville, TN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Nashville, TN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Cold snaps, blizzards | Tornadoes, floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Chicago and Nashville experience four distinct seasons, you'll find Nashville's winters milder and its summers warmer and slightly more humid. Nashville enjoys more sunny days annually, which might be a pleasant change if you're used to Chicago's colder, harsher winters. Moreover, the significant difference in annual snowfall—with Nashville receiving considerably less—means fewer concerns about snow removal and cold-weather commuting. However, Nashville's higher risk of tornadoes and greater annual rainfall suggests a need for readiness against different types of natural disasters than you might be used to in Chicago.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Nashville
When planning a move from Chicago, IL to Nashville, TN, it's crucial to grasp how your finances might shift. This comparison will shed light on cost of living, taxes, and economic opportunities in Chicago and Nashville, helping you to better prepare for your transition.
| Comparison | Chicago | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $64,857 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 88.9 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 (flat rate) | 1% (only on interest and dividends) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.16 | 0.93 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 9.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Healthcare, Education, Entertainment |
| Affluence | Varied | Increasingly affluent |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Challenging | Concerning |
Moving from Chicago to Nashville might not only change your scenery but could also have a considerable impact on your financial health. For instance, while Nashville displays a slightly higher cost of living index, it also boasts a higher average household income compared to Chicago. Tennessee's favorable state income tax rate, limited to dividends and interest income, provides a clear financial advantage over Illinois' flat rate, which applies to all income. Additionally, Nashville's lower property tax rate could make home ownership more attainable and financially beneficial in the long run. However, these financial benefits should be weighed against the backdrop of each city's economy and employment opportunities, particularly noting Nashville's burgeoning healthcare and entertainment industries versus Chicago's established finance and manufacturing sectors.
Chicago vs. Nashville Political & Religious Comparison
This concise guide offers a quick comparison of the political and religious landscape between the cities you're moving from and to. By examining the political and religious makeup between Chicago & Nashville , you'll gain a clearer understanding of the community vibes in each city.
| Chicago | Nashville | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Moderately Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies on healthcare and education | Combination of progressive values with traditional Southern policies |
| Religion | Diverse; significant Catholic and Protestant communities | Primarily Protestant with a strong presence of the Baptist Church Nashville Baptists |
Moving from Chicago to Nashville, you'll transition from a city with a robust Democratic leaning to one where politics take on a more moderate tone, reflective of Tennessee's blend of urban progressiveness and Southern values. Chicago's firmly progressive policies on social issues contrast with Nashville's mix, which includes traditional elements. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, but in Nashville, the Protestant, particularly Baptist tradition, has a strong influence. Understanding these differences can help you anticipate the community dynamics and participate more fully in your new home.
Chicago vs. Nashville Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chicago, IL to Nashville, TN? This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Nashville, aimed at giving you a clearer picture of what to expect for your daily commute and general traveling needs in these cities.
| Comparison | Chicago | Nashville |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
Chicago's robust public transportation system, including buses and the Chicago Transit Authority's "L" train, scores highly in terms of availability, making it easier to get by without a car. This contrasts sharply with Nashville, where the public transit options are limited, necessitating a car for most residents to navigate the city comfortably. While both cities offer distinct living experiences, understanding these transportation differences is crucial for planning your daily commute and adapting to your new home. Whether it's the longer average commute time in Chicago or the lighter traffic congestion in Nashville, each city offers a unique pace to your day.
Popular Chicago, IL to Tennessee Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes
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