Moving from Chicago to Chesapeake?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Chicago to Chesapeake Movers

Moving from the bustling Windy City to the serene waters of Chesapeake is an adventure that signifies a major life change, filled with new opportunities and experiences. While you're trading Chicago's iconic deep-dish pizza and towering skyscrapers for Chesapeake's tranquil waterways and close-knit community vibes, it's essential to make this transition as smooth as possible. That's why hiring trusted and reliable professional movers is crucial for a long-distance move like this, and we at Great Guys Moving use a meticulous, unbiased algorithm to help you find the best movers for your journey.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chesapeake to Chicago guide.

5 Best Chicago to Chesapeake Movers

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

#1
606 Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,152+ data points

Chicago, IL
Residential Movers, Commercial Movers, Packing & Unpacking Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in kankakee 2023 606 movers inc image
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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 9/10/2024)

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 >>

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top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
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#3
Marathon Moving Services Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,058+ data points

Virginia Beach, VA
Residential Moves, Commercial Moves, Packing & Delivery See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 3572153 Verify

About Marathon Moving Services

Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon ...Read More >>

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#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 9/10/2024)

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 >>

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top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
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#5
Prime Movers USA Logo
Exceptional

based on 628+ data points

Virginia Beach, VA
Local moves (within 50 miles), Long distance moves (over 50 miles), Packing/unpacking services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2995403 Verify

About Prime Movers USA

Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in its highly-...Read More >>

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Relocating from Chicago to Chesapeake Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be a daunting experience, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison designed to help you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by using your current city as a baseline. This guide compares the local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Chesapeake, VA , pinpointing similarities that will make you feel right at home.

ChicagoChesapeake
Lincoln ParkGreat Bridge

Family-friendly, excellent schools

Wicker ParkHickory

Unique shops, vibrant community vibe

Gold CoastGreenbrier East

Upscale, close to shopping centers

Old TownDeep Creek

Rich history, waterfront views

West LoopSouth Norfolk

Urban feel, great restaurants

River NorthWestern Branch North

Nightlife, arts & culture

Logan SquareGrassfield

Booming arts scene, community-focused

LakeviewIndian River

Family-oriented, near water activities

AndersonvilleGreat Bridge East

Diverse, welcoming community

The LoopEdinburgh

Business hub, modern amenities

If you're moving from Chicago's Lincoln Park, known for its zoo and vast green spaces, you'll find a similar spirit in Chesapeake's Great Bridge, with its family-centric atmosphere and top-notch schools like Great Bridge High School. Wicker Park's bustling Milwaukee Avenue, dotted with indie shops and eateries, echoes in Hickory's tight-knit community and unique local businesses. For those leaving Gold Coast's luxury and the Magnificent Mile behind, Greenbrier East offers an upscale living experience with premier shopping options such as the Greenbrier Mall. Additionally, Chicago’s rich culinary and arts scene in neighborhoods like West Loop finds a parallel in South Norfolk, where new restaurants and art studios breathe life into this evolving area.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Chesapeake

Moving from one city to another can be a big step, filled with both opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Chesapeake, VA. Understanding the pros and cons will help you make an informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher crime rates
  • Colder winters
  • Heavier traffic
  • Higher cost of living
  • Fewer green spaces
Chesapeake, VA iconChesapeake, VA
  • Lower crime rates
  • Milder winters
  • Less traffic
  • More affordable
  • More parks/nature
Chesapeake, VA iconChesapeake, VA
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Fewer dining options
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Less historical sites
  • Smaller job market
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Diverse culture
  • World-class dining
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Rich history
  • Strong job market

While the charts above outline the general pros and cons of moving from Chicago to Chesapeake, there's more to consider. Chesapeake, for example, is home to Chesapeake City Park, a sprawling green space perfect for outdoor activities, unlike the more urban-centric green spaces in Chicago like Millennium Park. Dining in Chesapeake, while not as diverse as Chicago's world-famous culinary scene, has hidden gems like Baker's Crust that offer cozy, delicious meals. Though the nightlife in Chesapeake is certainly quieter compared to Chicago's bustling bar and club scene, it offers a chance for more laid-back, intimate evenings. For history enthusiasts, Chicago's rich tapestry might seem unmatched, but Chesapeake and the surrounding areas in Virginia are steeped in American colonial and Civil War history, offering a different, but equally rich, tapestry to explore.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Chicago to Chesapeake

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Chesapeake, to illuminate the culinary landscapes of both cities. Food is a vibrant part of local culture, significantly influencing the living experience in any area. Through this comparison, you'll gain insights into the food scene of your new home.

ChicagoChesapeake

Most iconic local food item

Deep Dish PizzaSeafood, especially Blue Crab

Most popular meat dish

Italian Beef SandwichBarbecue

Most popular street food item

Hot Dog (Chicago-style)Crab Cake Sandwich

Most popular vegan food

Seitan WingsBBQ Jackfruit

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
  • Portillo’s
  • Alinea
  • Passion
  • Olde Towne BBQ
  • Berret's Seafood Restaurant

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

87

Foodie Scene

97

Vegan Friendly

87

When moving from Chicago to Chesapeake, you'll transition from the hearty, globally-influential culinary scene of a bustling metropolis, known for innovations like the deep dish pizza, to the fresher, seafood-rich offerings of a coastal city. In Chesapeake, seafood, especially Virginia's blue crabs, dominates the local cuisine, reflecting its coastal heritage. Neighborhoods like Great Bridge or South Norfolk offer a proliferation of local eateries where seafood is the star of the menu. Notably, places like Berret's Seafood Restaurant in Chesapeake provide a taste of local flavors, showcasing how the region's cuisine is deeply intertwined with its coastal geography and cultural practices.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Chicago to Chesapeake

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This comparison aims to ease your transition from Chicago, IL to Chesapeake, VA, transforming the unfamiliar into the familiar. By comparing restaurant options from your current hometown of Chicago to those in Chesapeake , you'll be better equipped to find new favorite spots that remind you of home.

AlineaVintage Kitchen

Traditional American with a fine dining twist echoing Alinea's inventive approach

Portillo'sThe BBQ Shack

Famous for comfort food, providing a casual dining experience reminiscent of Portillo's

Girl & The GoatPassion The Restaurant

Offers eclectic dishes that mirror Girl & The Goat's inventive spirit

Giordano'sPizza Box

Known for its deep-dish pizza, offering a taste of Chicago-style pie

The Purple PigOff The Hook Seafood & Chophouse

Features a diverse menu showcasing seafood and meats, akin to The Purple Pig

La ScarolaAl Forno Pizzeria

Authentic Italian that brings a slice of Italy to Chesapeake, much like La Scarola

Pequod's PizzaWindy City Pizza

Another Chicago-style pizza offering, making you feel right at home

Smoque BBQBig Ugly Brewing

Besides great local brews, their BBQ is on par with Smoque's smokey goodness

The BerghoffThe Butcher's Son

A modern take on American classic cuisine, reflecting The Berghoff’s essence

Rick Bayless' Frontera GrillEl Puente Mexican Grill

Authentic Mexican flavors that resonate with Frontera Grill's iconic dishes

Each restaurant in this comparison not only represents the finest in culinary offerings from Chicago and Chesapeake but also encapsulates the essence and hospitality found within both cities. For instance, the leap from Giordano’s legendary deep-dish pizza to Pizza Box's own version in Chesapeake is a testament to the universal appeal of heartwarming, traditional foods reimagined in new locales. On the other end of the culinary spectrum, the innovative, upscale dining experience at Alinea finds a parallel in Chesapeake’s Vintage Kitchen, where attention to detail and a commitment to an outstanding dining experience resonate with those seeking a sophisticated night out. These spots ensure that no matter where you find yourself, the flavors of home are never too far away.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Chicago to Chesapeake

Real estate is a crucial aspect when considering relocation. Understanding how Chicago, IL, and Chesapeake, VA, compare in terms of housing can significantly impact your decision-making process. From the cost of living to the architectural ambiance and the vibrancy of urban life, these factors play an essential role in selecting your next home.

When comparing housing in Chicago, IL, and Chesapeake, VA, there are several key components to consider. Chicago, known for its vibrant urban lifestyle and diverse architecture, offers a mix of modern and historic homes, many with unique amenities like lake views and rooftop decks. On the other hand, Chesapeake boasts a more suburban feel with colonial influences, where you'll typically find homes with spacious yards in quiet neighborhoods. Despite the higher median home price in Chesapeake, the monthly rent tends to be more affordable than in Chicago. Additionally, Chicago's superior walkability and bikeability scores reflect its more densely urban nature, contrasting Chesapeake's lower scores that highlight a reliance on vehicles for transportation. These differences underscore the importance of aligning your housing preferences with the lifestyle and amenities offered by each location.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chesapeake, VA

1. Great Bridge: You'll find plenty of pet-friendly amenities in this neighborhood, including the Great Bridge Lock Park, and various pet-friendly restaurants and shops.

2. Greenbrier East: Known for its pet-friendly environment, Greenbrier East boasts large yards for dogs to play, nearby Chesapeake Humane Society, and pet-friendly establishments such as Woof30 Pet Grooming.

3. Deep Creek South: This neighborhood is perfect for active pets, offering various trails and pet-friendly parks, including the popular Deep Creek Park, and a number of pet stores and veterinary clinics.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Chesapeake

When considering a move from Chicago, IL to Chesapeake, VA, it's crucial to understand how the weather will change. This comparison will highlight key differences, making it easier for you to adjust to your new environment. Key elements include Avg Summer and Winter temps, sunshine days, and the potential for natural disasters in both Chicago and Chesapeake.

Summer icon
85/65

Chicago, IL

87/68

Chesapeake, VA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35/22

Chicago, IL

50/32

Chesapeake, VA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

48

Chesapeake, VA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

5

Chesapeake, VA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Chicago to Chesapeake, you'll experience more sunny days and generally milder winters. The average winter temperatures in Chesapeake are significantly higher, reducing the likelihood of snowfall which contrasts sharply with Chicago's heavy snowfalls. However, be prepared for Chesapeake's summers, as they bring higher humidity and the risk of hurricanes and floods. Notably, Chesapeake's air quality is considered to be better, which can be a relief if you've experienced urban pollution. Adjusting to these differences in climate will take some time, but understanding them is the first step to making your new city feel like home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Chicago, IL to Chesapeake, VA, it's crucial to understand how the financial landscape changes. This comparison aims to elucidate the financial considerations including the cost of living, taxes, and household income between Chicago and Chesapeake, ensuring you make an informed decision about your relocation.

In comparing Chicago and Chesapeake, we notice significant differences in financial well-being and living costs. The average household income in Chesapeake is notably higher than Chicago, which, paired with a lower poverty rate, suggests a generally higher standard of living. However, it's important to note that the cost of living in Chesapeake is slightly higher, mainly due to different state tax policies and housing affordability. The lower property tax rate in Chesapeake compared to Chicago may offset some of the cost of living differences, making homeownership more accessible for many. Understanding these nuances will help you align your financial plans and expectations when making the move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Chicago, IL and Chesapeake, VA

Moving from one city to another can be a major life event, and understanding the environment you're moving into is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Chicago & Chesapeake, helping you feel more at home in your new city.

ChicagoChesapeake

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocraticMore Conservative/Republican

Local Politics

Democratic dominance at city and county levelsRepublican or independent-leaning in local governance

Religion

Diverse: Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, etc.Primarily Protestant with a variety of denominations

While Chicago is known for its liberal leanings and Democratic leadership, you'll find Chesapeake to have a more conservative outlook, particularly in local politics. This does not mean Chesapeake is monolithic; it houses diverse viewpoints and a vibrant civic life. Religion plays a significant part in both cities, though their predominant faiths differ. Chicago's religious landscape is incredibly diverse, accommodating many faiths and places of worship such as St. Patricks Cathedral. In contrast, Chesapeake has a stronger Protestant presence, but like any modern American city, it's home to a plethora of beliefs and congregations. Adapting to these differences will be part of your exciting journey.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Chesapeake

When planning a move from Chicago, IL to Chesapeake, VA, it's important to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Chesapeake will give you insights into adjusting your travel plans accordingly.

ChicagoChesapeake
3425

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?

Chicago and Chesapeake offer markedly different experiences when it comes to commuting. In Chicago, the extensive public transit system, including buses and the 'L' trains, means you can easily navigate the city without a car. The average commute time is longer, likely due to the higher traffic congestion, which is a common trait of large, bustling cities. On the other hand, Chesapeake, with its more suburban setup, relies heavily on car travel, making it challenging to get around without your own vehicle. The lowered traffic congestion reflects a more relaxed pace, leading to a shorter average commute time. This contrast highlights the necessity to consider your commuting preferences and lifestyle when moving from a metropolis to a smaller city.

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