Best Chicago to Norfolk Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Chicago to Norfolk Movers

Moving from the Windy City to the Naval Heart of the East Coast is not just a change of scenery; it's an adventure into a new chapter of your life. While you're leaving behind Chicago's iconic deep-dish pizza and towering skylines for Norfolk's picturesque waterfronts and historic charm, remember the journey is as important as the destination. That's why choosing trusted and reliable professional movers for this long-distance move is crucial, and we pride ourselves on connecting you with the best, using our unbiased algorithm to ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

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Best Chicago to Norfolk Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
A1 Movers, Inc9.33NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Marathon Moving Services9.27NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Prime Movers USA9.07NRAuthorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Norfolk to Chicago guide.

5 Best Chicago to Norfolk Moving Companies

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

606 Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,152+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Move-tastic! Logo
Exceptional9.35/10
based on 10,649+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers28
Total Annual Miles Moved90,866 (2023)
View Full Review
2
A1 Movers, Inc Logo
Exceptional9.33/10
based on 776+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3309154 / 1055273

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved6,800 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Marathon Moving Services Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 1,058+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing & Delivery

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3572153 / 1552140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Prime Movers USA Logo
Exceptional9.07/10
based on 628+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Local moves (within 50 miles)
  • Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
  • Packing/unpacking services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2995403 / 21183

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved9,060 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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. Norfolk Neighborhood Comparison

When moving from one city to another, it's exciting but can also be daunting not knowing where to land. That's why we're here to help you compare Chicago, IL & Norfolk, VA neighborhoods . This guide will assist you in finding a new neighborhood in Norfolk that feels like home, by showing you how it compares to your old one in Chicago.

ChicagoNorfolkHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkGhentVibrant arts scene, historic homes
Wicker ParkNEON DistrictEclectic, artsy vibe
Gold CoastLarchmontUpscale, waterfront properties
LoopDowntown NorfolkBustling city center, cultural attractions
Hyde ParkGhentHistoric architecture, cultural institutions
AndersonvilleFairmount ParkDiverse community, unique local businesses
LakeviewWest GhentFamily-friendly, close to waterways
Logan SquareColonial PlaceHip, with a sense of community
River NorthFreemasonTrendy, historic with bustling nightlife
Old TownHistoric GhentCharming with a strong sense of community

In mapping Chicago neighborhoods to those in Norfolk, the intent is to find you a new nook that mirrors the comfort of your old one while offering the excitement of the unfamiliar. For instance, if you adored the lush parks and upscale boutiques of Lincoln Park, Ghent in Norfolk could be your next home, boasting a similar vibrant arts scene set among historic homes. Just as Chicago's Gold Coast offers luxury living with stunning lakefront views, Larchmont in Norfolk presents upscale, waterfront properties perfect for serene living. And for the arts enthusiasts drawn to Wicker Park's eclectic vibe, the NEON District in Norfolk promises an artsy ambiance with its unique galleries and live music venues. Each of these Norfolk neighborhoods not only reflects the physical attributes of its Chicago counterpart but also echoes its spirit, ensuring you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.

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Things to Do in Norfolk

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Norfolk

Moving from Chicago, IL to Norfolk, VA involves weighing the balance of change. This comparison aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make an informed decision. By examining the pros and cons, you'll better understand how your quality of life might change for better or worse.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Harsh winters
  • Higher crime rates
  • Higher cost of living
  • Heavy traffic congestion
  • Fewer beaches
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Milder winters
  • Lower crime rates
  • More affordable living
  • Less traffic
  • Access to beaches
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less diverse entertainment
  • More car dependency
  • Fewer job sectors
  • Less architectural diversity
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant city life
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Extensive public transit
  • More job opportunities
  • Iconic architecture

Leaving behind Chicago's vibrant city life means saying goodbye to landmarks like the Magnificent Mile and an extensive culinary scene boasting restaurants like Alinea. However, Norfolk welcomes you with its unique charm, including easier access to outdoor activities and the scenic beauty of places like the Norfolk Botanical Garden. Although you might miss the eclectic mix of world-class museums and theaters in Chicago, Norfolk offers a calmer pace of life with attractions such as the Nauticus Museum and the historic Battleship Wisconsin, fostering a close-knit community bond. This relocation brings a change in lifestyle, opening the door to new experiences and opportunities while embracing the tranquility and friendliness of a smaller city.

Chicago vs. Norfolk Food Guide

Understanding the essence of local cuisine is a pivotal aspect of acclimating to a new location. Hence, we've detailed a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Norfolk to enlighten you on the culinary scene awaiting at your new destination.

ChicagoNorfolk
Most iconic local food itemDeep-dish pizzaSeafood, particularly crab
Most popular meat dishItalian beef sandwichesFried Chicken
Most popular street food itemChicago-style hot dogsOyster po'boy
Most popular vegan foodVegan Deep-dish pizzaVegan Crab Cakes
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
  • Todd Jurich's Bistro
  • Doumar's
  • No Frill Bar and Grill
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Chicago to Norfolk, you'll transition from the hearty, meat-forward dishes like Italian beef sandwiches and deep-dish pizzas to a cuisine that celebrates the bounty of the sea. Norfolk is renowned for its seafood, particularly its crabs, which can be enjoyed in a variety of establishments, from high-end eateries like Todd Jurich's Bistro to the more casual, historic Doumar's, home of the world’s first ice cream cone machine. You'll find Norfolk’s culinary scene diverse but with a strong emphasis on locally sourced seafood, reflecting its coastal location. Whether you're exploring the Ghent neighborhood or dining downtown, the freshness and flavor of Norfolk's seafood are incomparable.

Chicago vs. Norfolk Restaurant Comparison

Transitioning to a new city involves crafting new experiences and finding local spots that resonate with your taste. Among these, discovering your go-to eateries plays a crucial part in feeling at home. Through this comparison, we aim to bridge the gastronomic gap for those moving from Chicago, IL to Norfolk, VA by comparing top restaurants in both cities, helping you find counterparts to your favorite Chicago spots in your new coastal city.

ChicagoNorfolkWhat You'll Love
AlineaFour Eleven YorkFine dining with innovative cuisine
Girl & The GoatLuceUnique small plates with a cozy atmosphere
Pequod's PizzaGranby Street PizzaDeep dish pizzas and a welcoming vibe
Rick Bayless' Frontera GrillJessy's TaqueriaAuthentic Mexican flavors and fresh ingredients
Portillo's Hot DogsDoumar's Cones & BarbecueIconic for its diner-style menu and home of the waffle cone
The Purple PigPress 626 Wine BarDiverse wine list with shareable plates
Smoque BBQMy Mama's KitchenDown-home BBQ with a soulful twist
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabThe SaltineSpecializes in seafood and steaks, high-end dining experience
The Berghoff RestaurantBier GardenAuthentic German cuisine and beer selection
Au ChevalJackson's Beer Garden & SmokehouseKnown for its burgers and craft beer

Finding the essence of your favorite Chicago eateries in Norfolk is easier than you might think. For the foodies passionate about progressive dining, Four Eleven York provides an experience paralleling the creativity and flair of Chicago's Alinea. Pizza enthusiasts will delight in Granby Street Pizza, which honors the tradition of deep-dish pizza, reminiscent of Pequod's Pizza. Meanwhile, the search for authentic, soulful meals finds a home at My Mama's Kitchen, mirroring the hearty and flavorsome allure of Chicago's Smoque BBQ. Each Norfolk establishment echoes the spirit of its Chicago counterpart, ensuring that your culinary adventures continue seamlessly in your new coastal environment.

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Ready to start your move?

Chicago vs. Norfolk Real Estate & Living Facts

Realizing the ideal living situation in a new city is pivotal. This comparison unpacks the layers of the real estate landscape to spotlight differences between Chicago, IL and Norfolk, VA—focusing on aspects crucial for your move. Understanding these particulars ensures your relocation decisions are well-informed.

ComparisonChicagoNorfolk
Typical Architecture StyleSkyline, ModernistColonial, Cape Cod
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLake views, AccessibilityWaterfront, historical features

In considering housing between these two cities, it's essential to look beyond just numbers. For instance, while the median home price and rent in Chicago may be higher, this reflects its urban lifestyle and rich architectural heritage—where modernist buildings blend into a remarkable skyline. On the other hand, Norfolk, with its lower housing costs, offers a different charm characterized by colonial and Cape Cod homes and a notable emphasis on waterfront properties. Moreover, Chicago's higher walkability and bikeability scores highlight its dense, urban environment perfect for a dynamic lifestyle, contrasting with the more laid-back and spacious setting of Norfolk. This difference in lifestyle is not just about preferences but also about the unique experiences each city offers—from the vibrant urban fabric of Chicago to the serene, historical backdrop of Norfolk.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Norfolk, VA

1. Ghent: Known for its sidewalks lined with mature trees and several pet-friendly restaurant patios, making your evenings walks with your furry friend a delightful experience.

2. Freemason Harbor: With easy access to Town Point Park, it's a serene place where you can enjoy waterfront walks and playtime with your pet.

3. Larchmont-Edgewater: This neighborhood boasts the spacious Larchmont Library grounds and close access to dog-friendly shorelines, perfect for weekend adventures with your pet.

Chicago vs. Norfolk Weather Considerations

When moving from one location to another, it's essential to understand how the weather will differ from what you're accustomed to. This comparison aims to highlight the weather differences between Chicago, IL, and Norfolk, VA , ensuring you're well-prepared for your new climate.

Summer icon
85/65

Chicago, IL

89/70

Norfolk, VA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
32/18

Chicago, IL

50/32

Norfolk, VA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

47

Norfolk, VA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

5

Norfolk, VA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonChicagoNorfolk
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersBlizzards, TornadoesHurricanes, Nor'easters
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Chicago and Norfolk experience a variety of weather conditions, Norfolk enjoys more sunshine and warmer winters than Chicago. However, it's important to note that Norfolk also faces a higher threat from hurricanes and nor'easters, reflecting its coastal location. On the other hand, Chicago's winters can be harsher with significantly more snowfall and the potential for blizzards. Air quality in Norfolk tends to be better, providing a potentially more comfortable environment for those with respiratory issues. Understanding these differences can help you prepare better for your move, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

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

When relocating from one city to another, grasping the differences in financial conditions is crucial. This comparison will provide you with an overview of how your expenses and economic environment might shift when moving from Chicago, IL to Norfolk, VA. Understanding these changes will help you prepare for your move effectively.

ComparisonChicagoNorfolk
Avg. Household Income$66,576$58,591
Cost of Living Index116.996.6
State Income Tax4.955.75
Avg. Property Tax2.10.8
Avg. Sales Tax10.256.0
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Insurance, ManufacturingDefense, Cargo, Tourism
AffluenceModerateModerate
PovertySignificantModerate
HomelessnessHighLow

When comparing Chicago to Norfolk, one of the stark contrasts is the cost of living index, with Chicago's being over 10 points higher than Norfolk's. This could translate to a more affordable living situation for you in Norfolk. However, the average household income is also lower in Norfolk, which should be considered when planning your budget. State and property taxes favor Norfolk, potentially offering you more financial breathing space due to lower rates. Finally, the distinct economic landscapes, driven by different leading industries in each city, mean your career opportunities might shift in favor of Norfolk's defense, cargo, and tourism sectors.

Chicago vs. Norfolk Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Chicago, IL to Norfolk, VA, it's useful to get a quick overview of the local demographics to understand your new community better. This comparison between Chicago & Norfolk offers a snapshot of the political and religious landscape, helping you integrate more smoothly into your new environment.

ChicagoNorfolk
Political Make-upLean DemocraticLean Democratic
Local PoliticsDiverse, with significant focus on social issues and urban policiesMilitary influence with a strong emphasis on defense and maritime policies
ReligionA mix with a strong Catholic presence Archdiocese of ChicagoDiverse, with notable Protestant and Evangelical communities City of Norfolk Religious Communities

In both Chicago and Norfolk, the political landscape leans Democratic, which might suggest a degree of political continuity for movers. However, the local political focus shifts significantly; while Chicago's politics often revolve around social issues and urban redevelopment, Norfolk's policies are deeply intertwined with defense and maritime interests, reflecting its status as a strategic military base. The religious makeup is also diverse in both cities, but while Chicago has a pronounced Catholic footprint, Norfolk offers a wide array of Protestant and Evangelical communities, reflecting the broader religious diversity of the Southeastern United States.

Chicago vs. Norfolk Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Chicago, IL to Norfolk, VA, it's critical to understand the difference in what your daily commute and traffic will be like. In this guide, we offer a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Norfolk to make your transition smoother.

ComparisonChicagoNorfolk
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3425
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

While Chicago's average commute time is longer at 34 minutes compared to Norfolk's 25 minutes, it's also notable for its higher traffic congestion levels. However, Chicago significantly outperforms Norfolk in terms of public transit availability, scoring an 8 out of 10. This robust transit system, including CTA buses and trains, makes it easier to live in Chicago without owning a car. Conversely, living in Norfolk may necessitate having a car due to its lower public transit score and the lesser feasibility of getting around without one.

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