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Moving from the Windy City to Space City marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. As you trade in Chicago's iconic deep-dish pizzas and vibrant jazz scene for Houston's renowned space explorations and diverse culinary landscape, remember the thrill lies in embracing change. To ensure this long-distance move goes smoothly, it's crucial to entrust your belongings to trusted and reliable professional movers, like Great Guys Moving, whose unbiased ranking algorithm helps you find the very best.
Moving from Chicago to Houston?
5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide
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5 Best Chicago to Houston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
#1
 | 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 >>
#2
| 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 >>
#3
| 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 >>
#4
| Houston, TX |
| Homepage:, Residential moving, Commercial moving See More |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/10/2024) |
| USDOT: 3070055 Verify |
About Pinpoint Movers
Pinpoint Movers is a women-owned and family-operated moving company located in Houston, Texas that is licensed and insured to handle all you...Read More >>
#5
| Houston, TX |
| Residential Moving, Labor Only, Packing Services See More |
| Authorized for Interstate Moves (last checked 9/14/2021) |
| USDOT: 2200927 Verify |
About Right Rate Movers of Houston
Right Rate Movers of Houston is a trusted and reliable moving company recognized as an industry leader in terms of affordability and efficie...Read More >>
Relocating from Chicago to Houston Neighborhood Guide
When moving to a new city, finding a neighborhood that feels like home can be a daunting task. By comparing popular neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Houston, TX, this guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with your new city, using your current city as a baseline. Discover the closest parallels between the local scenes of these two vibrant cities.
| Chicago | Houston |
|---|---|
Lincoln ParkMontrose Diverse, vibrant nightlife | |
The LoopDowntown Houston Urban core, business hub | |
Wicker ParkThe Heights Hip, unique boutiques | |
Gold CoastRiver Oaks Luxury living, upscale shopping | |
AndersonvilleMontrose again Cultural diversity, rich history | |
South LoopMidtown Houston Residential with nightlife proximity | |
Logan SquareEaDo (East Downtown) Artistic, growing rapidly | |
River NorthUptown Trendy, high-energy nightlife | |
Hyde ParkMuseum District Intellectual, cultural attractions | |
Old TownWest University Historic homes, family-friendly | |
Lincoln Park, known for its diverse community and vibrant nightlife, finds its match in Houston's Montrose, where eclectic bars and local art scenes thrive. For those drawn to the opulent lifestyle of Chicago's Gold Coast, River Oaks in Houston offers an equally luxurious living experience with its grand estates and premium shopping avenues like River Oaks Shopping Center. Meanwhile, the artistic and rapidly evolving character of Logan Square is paralleled by Houston's EaDo, home to avant-garde art galleries and indie coffee shops such as 8th Wonder Brewery & Distillery. If the cultural and intellectual allure of Hyde Park appeals to you, you'll find a similar vibe in Houston's Museum District, a hub of innovation and culture, anchored by institutions like the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Each of these neighborhoods tells its own unique story, offering a seamless blend of experiences to those making a new home in a new city.
Things to Do in Houston
Explore the Space Center Houston- Stroll through Buffalo Bayou Park
- See a show at Houston Theater District
- Visit the Museum of Fine Arts
- Shop at The Galleria
- Enjoy the Houston Zoo
- Catch an Astros game at Minute Maid Park
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Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Houston
Moving can be both an exciting and daunting experience, filled with hopes for the future and nostalgia for what's left behind. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Houston, TX , helping you weigh your options carefully.
CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- Higher taxes
- Cost of living
- Dense traffic
Houston, TX- Milder winters
- Lower taxes
- More affordable living
- More space
Houston, TX- Less cultural institutions
- Car-dependent city
- Varied but different
- No Great Lakes
Chicago, IL- Vibrant arts scene
- Extensive public transit
- Diverse cuisine
- Lake Michigan
Moving from the bustling cityscape of Chicago, with its iconic skyline and diverse dining options, to Houston's expansive landscapes offers a unique set of lifestyle changes. While you may miss the easy access to cultural institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago, Houston boasts a growing arts scene centered around areas like the Houston Museum District. Although the extensive public transit system of Chicago is hard to match, Houston counters with intriguing neighborhoods like The Heights and Montrose, filled with vibrant parks, such as Discovery Green, and a plethora of dining options from award-winning barbecue joints to innovative Tex-Mex eateries. Moreover, the absence of state income tax in Texas may somewhat offset the nostalgia of leaving Chicago's magnificent lakefront behind.
Food Scene Guide When Moving from Chicago to Houston
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Houston and is intended to give a glimpse into the food culture of both cities. Since food is a significant aspect of local culture and daily living, understanding what each city offers can help you feel more at home after your move.
| Chicago | Houston |
|---|---|
Most iconic local food item Deep-Dish Pizza Texas BBQ Brisket | |
Most popular meat dish Italian Beef Sandwich Fajitas | |
Most popular street food item Chicago-style Hot Dog Tacos Al Pastor | |
Most popular vegan food Seitan Jackfruit Tacos | |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
| |
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness 7 7 | |
Abundance of Food Trucks 8 9 | |
Foodie Scene 9 10 | |
Vegan Friendly 7 8 | |
In Chicago, food lovers revel in the city’s iconic deep-dish pizza, a rich, hearty delight found in famed spots like Lou Malnati's. Meanwhile, Houston's culinary scene is robust and diverse, with Texas BBQ brisket leading the charge as a must-try local delicacy. Each city boasts a dynamic foodie scene, with Chicago's Italian beef sandwiches and Houston's fajitas highlighting the diversity of meat dishes available. For street food aficionados, Chicago’s Chicago-style hot dogs and Houston’s tacos al pastor offer a tantalizing taste of each city’s fast-food culture. Furthermore, both cities cater to health-conscious and vegan diners, with a plethora of options like seitan in Chicago and jackfruit tacos in Houston. When exploring the bustling food truck scenes, Houston slightly edges out Chicago, offering a wide variety of mobile dining experiences that cater to every palate.
Restaurant Guide for Moving from Chicago to Houston
Relocating can be a grand adventure, particularly when discovering the culinary delights of your new city. For those moving from Chicago, IL to Houston, TX, finding your new favorite eateries using your current local favorites as a guide can make anywhere feel like home. This comparison aims to ease your transition and tantalize your taste buds along the way.
AlineaPappas Bros. Steakhouse High-end dining with meticulous attention to detail. |
Giordano'sStar Pizza Famous for deep-dish, creating a taste of Chicago in Texas. |
Rick Bayless' Frontera GrillHugo's Authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on rich, traditional flavors. |
Portillo's Hot DogsGood Dog Houston Known for artisan hot dogs that rival Chicago’s best. |
The Purple PigCharro Innovative tapas-style dining highlighting Mediterranean flavors. |
PublicanRevival Market A focus on farm-to-table dining with a casual yet refined atmosphere. |
Joe's SeafoodTruluck's Seafood mastery that pays homage to Joe's with quality and service. |
Girl & The GoatState of Grace Similar eclectic and bold flavors in a chic and inviting space. |
Smoque BBQKillen's Barbecue A temple for Texas barbecue lovers with a devotion to smoke and meat. |
Lou Malnati’s PizzeriaBollo Woodfired Pizza Offers a nod to Chicago-style pizza with their own unique spin. |
For those who believe a deep-dish pizza is the epitome of comfort, Star Pizza in Houston will not disappoint. As Star Pizza brings a slice of Chicago with its renowned deep-dish recipes, you will find solace in its familiar taste. Meanwhile, seafood enthusiasts accustomed to Joe's Seafood in Chicago might find themselves at home at Truluck's in Houston, where the commitment to fresh seafood and exquisite service echoes the high standards you're used to. Lastly, if your appetite yearns for the bold flavors and innovative dining experience of Girl & The Goat, State of Grace in Houston awaits with open doors, offering an eclectic menu that lives up to that legacy. In summary, your culinary journey from Chicago to Houston promises to be both seamless and delightful as you discover these new, yet comfortingly familiar, gastronomical havens.
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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Chicago to Houston
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Knowing how Chicago and Houston compare in terms of housing cost, architecture, walkability, and lifestyle can greatly influence your decision. Let's dive into the details.
When comparing Chicago and Houston, it's clear each city offers a distinct living experience. Chicago's real estate market often highlights proximity to the bustling Lake Michigan and convenient citywide transportation via the L-Train. Meanwhile, Houston emphasizes its spacious lots and connection to the burgeoning Energy Corridor, reflecting its more sprawling, car-centric layout. While Chicago touts a higher walkability and urban lifestyle rating, reflecting its compact and densely populated neighborhoods, Houston's appeal lies in larger living spaces and a more relaxed lifestyle. Of note, the lower cost of housing in Houston could be a significant factor for many, offering more bang for your buck in one of the nation's most dynamic economies.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Houston, TX
1. Montrose: Known for its vibrant arts scene, Montrose is incredibly pet-friendly with various cafes and dog parks where your furry friends are more than welcome.
2. The Heights: This neighborhood boasts numerous walking trails, like those along White Oak Bayou, and pet-friendly restaurants, making it perfect for pet owners who love outdoor activities with their pets.
3. Midtown: With its central location, Midtown offers easy access to several dog parks, including Elizabeth Glover Park, and pet-friendly patios, ensuring you and your pet never run out of things to do.
Weather Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Houston
When moving from one city to another, understanding the weather changes is crucial. This guide compares the climate variances you'll face when relocating from Chicago to Houston, highlighting temperature, humidity, and seasonal changes to prepare you for your new environment.
83/63
Chicago, IL
94/75
Houston, TX
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
36/22
Chicago, IL
65/45
Houston, TX
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
36
Chicago, IL
50
Houston, TX
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
36
Chicago, IL
0
Houston, TX
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
When moving from Chicago to Houston, you'll find Houston's climate to be milder in the winter but significantly warmer and more humid in the summer. Houston's higher average UV index year-round means more sunny days but also a greater need for sun protection. While both cities experience moderate air quality, Houston may face periods of unhealthy air, particularly for sensitive groups. Also, while Chicago residents are used to preparing for snowstorms, moving to Houston requires an awareness of hurricane and flooding risks due to its coastal location.
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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Houston
When planning a move, especially from Chicago, IL to Houston, TX, it's crucial to understand the financial landscape of your new city compared to your current one. This comparison will give you a better idea of how your expenses, taxes, and the overall cost of living might change.
While Houston boasts a slightly lower average household income compared to Chicago, it compensates with a lower cost of living and significantly favorable tax scenarios, notably the absence of a state income tax. These financial aspects are vital for planning your move and adjusting your budget accordingly. The contrasting top industries between the two cities highlight a shift in economic focus, which might influence job opportunities. Despite both cities dealing with homelessness and poverty, their distinct economic landscapes offer varied living experiences.
Political & Religious Comparison between Chicago, IL and Houston, TX
Moving from one city to another involves more than just a change of scenery; it's about adapting to a new cultural and social environment. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Chicago & Houston , offering insight into the communities you'll be joining or leaving behind.
| Chicago | Houston |
|---|---|
Political Make-up Liberal/DemocraticModerately Liberal/Diverse | |
Local Politics Highly DemocraticMix of Democratic and Republican | |
Religion Catholic, ProtestantDiverse: Christian, Muslim, Hindu, etc. | |
In both Chicago and Houston, you'll find a mix of political beliefs, but Chicago leans more decisively liberal, reflecting statewide trends in Illinois. In contrast, Houston's political makeup is more varied, reflecting Texas's broad spectrum of conservative to liberal ideologies depending on the area. Released households in Houston enjoy a robust diversity of faiths, including large Christian, Muslim, and Hindu communities, a testament to the city's multicultural fabric. It's this diversity that might provide a fresh perspective and new opportunities or challenges as you adapt to your new home.
Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Houston
Moving to a new city often means adapting to new ways of getting around. To help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like , this section provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Houston. Whether you depend on public transit or prefer to drive, understanding these differences can make your transition smoother.
| Chicago | Houston |
|---|---|
3430 Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | |
76 Traffic Congestion (out of 10) | |
95 Availability of Public Transit (out of 10) | |
YesNo Can you get by without car? | |
In Chicago, you might find the public transit system, including buses and the "L" train, more efficient and comprehensive, making it easier to live without a car. On the other hand, Houston's public transit is less extensive, which makes having a car almost a necessity for getting around the city. Houston's average commute time is slightly shorter, but both cities experience their share of traffic congestion. This gives you a flavor of how daily commutes differ between these two urban environments.
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Popular Chicago, IL to Texas Moving Routes
- Chicago to San Antonio
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- Chicago to Lubbock
- Chicago to Garland
- Chicago to Irving
- Chicago to Frisco
- Chicago to Amarillo
- Chicago to McKinney
- Chicago to Grand Prairie
- Chicago to Brownsville
- Chicago to Killeen
- Chicago to Pasadena
Popular Moving Routes
