Moving from Chicago to Virginia Beach?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Chicago to Virginia Beach Movers

Moving from the Windy City to Virginia Beach marks an exciting chapter in your life, embarking on an adventure filled with new prospects. You’re leaving behind Chicago's bustling streets and iconic deep-dish pizza for Virginia Beach's serene oceanfront and vibrant boardwalk life. To ensure this long-distance journey unfolds smoothly, it’s pivotal to hire trusted and reliable professional movers. Our tailored approach at Great Guys Moving helps you find the best fit, making your move as seamless and stress-free as possible.

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

5 Best Chicago to Virginia Beach 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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#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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#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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#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 Virginia Beach Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be a complex transition, but comparing familiar neighborhoods from your current city to those in your future home can help ease the process. In this guide, we'll explore a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Virginia Beach, VA , aiming to match you with areas that reflect your lifestyle and preferences.

ChicagoVirginia Beach
Lincoln ParkGreat Neck

Family-friendly with lush parks

The LoopTown Center

Vibrant shopping and dining scene

Wicker ParkVibe District

Artsy and full of unique boutiques

Gold CoastBroad Bay

Exclusive homes and waterfront views

StreetervilleOceanfront

Bustling beachfront and activities

AndersonvilleBay Colony

Quaint with a strong sense of community

Hyde ParkAlanton

Historical significance with educational institutions

River NorthChicks Beach

Trendy eateries and nightlife

Logan SquareShore Drive

Hip with a mix of casual and upscale dining

BridgeportRed Mill

Diverse and family-oriented

Moving from the vibrant energy of Chicago's River North, with its trendy bars and eateries like Three Dots and a Dash, you'll find a likeminded spirit in Virginia Beach's Chicks Beach. Here, the nightlife and dining options offer a similar appeal, highlighted by spots like Pleasure House Oysters that provide a unique local flavor. Should you crave the artistic and slightly edgy environment akin to Wicker Park, the Vibe District stands as Virginia Beach's creative heart, hosting numerous local artists and galleries. Meanwhile, the tranquility and family-friendly atmosphere you loved in Lincoln Park can be rediscovered in Great Neck, where community activities and green spaces abound, offering a seamless transition for Chicagoans seeking both familiarity and a new beginning.

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Things to Do in Virginia Beach

  • Stroll along Virginia Beach Boardwalk
  • Explore Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
  • Enjoy hikes at First Landing State Park
  • Visit Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Take a dolphin watching tour
  • Surf at Sandbridge Beach
  • Experience Neptune Festival events

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Virginia Beach

Moving from one city to another involves considering both the challenges and opportunities that come with such a change. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of moving from Chicago, IL to Virginia Beach, VA , outlining the good and the bad to help you make a well-informed decision. Below, you'll find charts comparing the pros and cons of relocating from Chicago to Virginia Beach .

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Harsh winters
  • Higher crime rate
  • Costly living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Limited Beach Access
Virginia Beach, VA iconVirginia Beach, VA
  • Milder winters
  • Lower crime rate
  • More affordable
  • Less congestion
  • Beachfront lifestyle
Virginia Beach, VA iconVirginia Beach, VA
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Fewer cultural venues
  • Less variety in dining
  • Car-dependent
  • Smaller green spaces
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Rich culture
  • Diverse dining
  • Better public transit
  • Lots of parks

The transition from Chicago's bustling urban environment to Virginia Beach's laid-back coastal vibe can be thrilling yet daunting. While you might miss the expansive greenery of Chicago's parks and its eclectic dining scene, Virginia Beach offers a charming alternative with its picturesque beaches and local seafood restaurants. Neighborhoods like Sandbridge and Chic's Beach provide a serene escape from the city's hustle, while the Virginia Aquarium and Ocean Breeze Waterpark are perfect for family outings. Embrace the change, and you'll discover a new lifestyle filled with sun, sand, and a slower pace of life amidst Virginia Beach's welcoming community.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Chicago to Virginia Beach

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Virginia Beach, demonstrating how food plays a crucial role in understanding the culture and lifestyle of a new area. This comparison will help you get a taste of the local scene in both cities before making your move.

ChicagoVirginia Beach

Most iconic local food item

Deep-dish pizzaSeafood, notably crab cakes

Most popular meat dish

Italian beefGrilled fish

Most popular street food item

Chicago-style hot dogOysters

Most popular vegan food

Seitan dishesVegan crab cakes

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Alinea
  • The Purple Pig
  • Giordano's
  • Commune
  • Blue Seafood & Spirits
  • Terrapin Restaurant

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

86

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

78

When moving from Chicago to Virginia Beach, you'll notice a shift from the hearty, meat-heavy dishes such as deep-dish pizzas and Italian beefs towards fresher, seafood-centric offerings like crab cakes and grilled fish. Virginia Beach, with its coastal location, provides an abundance of fresh seafood, particularly in the Chesapeake Bay area where dining on oysters and crab cakes is a lifestyle. Chicago's food scene is notable for its innovation and deep-rooted traditions, with landmark restaurants like Alinea pushing culinary boundaries. Meanwhile, Virginia Beach offers a more laid-back, health-conscious dining experience, with spots like Commune showcasing local, sustainable ingredients. Whether you're exploring food trucks or fine dining, both cities offer a compelling mix of tastes to explore.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Chicago to Virginia Beach

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison is aimed to ease the transition for those moving from Chicago, IL to Virginia Beach, VA by linking familiar dining experiences to new local favorites, bridging homes between Chicago and Virginia Beach. Whether you're craving high-end dining or the comfort of a casual meal, these comparable restaurants will help you feel at home.

AlineaTerrapin Restaurant

Both offer innovative, high-end dining experiences with a focus on local ingredients.

Portillo'sDoc Taylor's

Both are iconic to their cities offering a casual dining experience with a focus on comfort food.

Girl & The GoatBlue Seafood & Spirits

Both restaurants provide a foodie adventure with their inventive dishes and focus on fresh ingredients.

Lou Malnati's PizzeriaWindy City Pizza

Offering a taste of Chicago with their deep-dish pizzas, it's a slice of home for any Chicagoan.

The Purple PigCommune

Both establishments offer farm-to-table meals, emphasizing seasonal ingredients in a laid-back atmosphere.

Rick Bayless's Frontera GrillGringo's Taqueria

Both serve up authentic and innovative Mexican dishes beloved by locals.

Gene & Jude'sRepeal Bourbons and Burgers

While known for burgers, they also offer a casual feel reminiscent of Gene & Jude’s hot dog simplicity.

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabWaterman's Surfside Grille

Both are iconic for seafood lovers, offering a range of fresh seafood dishes.

Smoque BBQBeach Bully BBQ

Both spots are beloved for their authentic smoky barbecue flavors and laid-back vibes.

The Berghoff RestaurantDas Festhaus

Offers a similar German dining experience, echoing the traditional flavors found at The Berghoff.

When you move from the bustling city streets of Chicago to the breezy shores of Virginia Beach, you don’t have to leave your culinary comforts behind. Venture to Terrapin Restaurant for an immersive high-end dining experience that mirrors Alinea’s creativity and commitment to local ingredients. On the more casual side, Doc Taylor's captures the same spirit of local gem Portillo's, serving up comfort food in a relaxed, iconic setting to the Virginia Beach community. And for those missing the unique flavors of Girl & The Goat, Blue Seafood & Spirits offers a coastal twist on foodie adventures with its dedication to fresh, sustainable seafood. These comparisons not only promise delightful meals but also the chance to weave the fabric of your new favorite dining spots into your Virginia Beach lifestyle.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Chicago to Virginia Beach

Real estate significantly influences the decision-making process when relocating. It's essential to comprehend how housing compares between Chicago, IL, and Virginia Beach, VA, focusing on cost, architecture, and lifestyle aspects, which illuminate the essence of each city.

The urbanity and architectural ambience of both Chicago and Virginia Beach offer distinct living experiences. Chicago boasts a vibrant, bustling urban atmosphere coupled with a mix of modern and historical architecture, giving it a unique edge for those who crave a city lifestyle. The high walkability and bikeability scores reflect an environment conducive to exploring the city's depth. On the other hand, Virginia Beach is characterized by its serene coastal and colonial architectural stylings, emphasizing spacious backyards and oceanfront properties. This suggests a slower-paced, more relaxed lifestyle, focused on outdoor and leisure activities, aligning with lower urban lifestyle ratings. These contrasting elements play a crucial role in deciding where you might feel more at home.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Virginia Beach, VA

1. ViBe Creative District: Known for its artistic vibe, the ViBe Creative District hosts numerous pet-friendly cafes and shops, making it a perfect neighborhood for you and your furry friend to explore together.

2. Great Neck: With spacious parks like Great Neck Park, this area offers ample green space for your pets to play in, along with pet-friendly walking trails.

3. Shore Drive: This neighborhood is renowned for its close proximity to First Landing State Park, providing you and your pet miles of beaches and nature trails to enjoy year-round.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Virginia Beach

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the differences in climate you'll encounter. This comparison highlights the weather variations between Chicago, IL and Virginia Beach, VA, aiming to prepare you for the changes you'll experience. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more smoothly to your new environment.

Summer icon
83°F/63°F

Chicago, IL

87°F/70°F

Virginia Beach, VA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
31°F/17°F

Chicago, IL

50°F/32°F

Virginia Beach, VA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

44

Virginia Beach, VA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

6

Virginia Beach, VA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

The weather differences between Chicago and Virginia Beach are significant, especially when considering winter temperatures and snowfall. Virginia Beach experiences milder winters with less snow, making it an attractive option for those who prefer a more temperate climate. Additionally, Virginia Beach enjoys more days of sunshine and slightly higher humidity levels, which can influence your daily comfort and activities. Interestingly, both cities have their own set of natural disaster risks - with Chicago facing snowstorms and cold waves, while Virginia Beach is more prone to hurricanes and flooding. This information is key to preparing for seasonal changes and ensuring your new home is equipped for the local weather.

Ready to start your move?

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

When relocating from Chicago, IL, to Virginia Beach, VA, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison shines light on the differences in cost of living, taxes, and income between Chicago and Virginia Beach, helping you anticipate changes in your financial landscape.

While the average household income in Virginia Beach is notably higher compared to Chicago, this increase is coupled with a slightly higher cost of living index. However, the burden of property and sales taxes in Virginia Beach is significantly lower, potentially offsetting the increased day-to-day expenses. This financial landscape is further influenced by the dominant industries in each location, with Virginia Beach's economy heavily supported by defense, tourism, and agriculture. This comparison is useful in gauging the overall affluence and quality of life you might expect after relocating, considering also the lower rates of poverty and homelessness in Virginia Beach compared to Chicago.

Political & Religious Comparison between Chicago, IL and Virginia Beach, VA

Welcome to a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to help you understand the broad strokes of the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Chicago & Virginia Beach . This guide is meant to provide you with a glimpse into the communities you're moving from and to.

ChicagoVirginia Beach

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticLean Republican

Local Politics

City GovernanceCity Governance

Religion

Diverse, with no single denomination dominatingLargely Christian, with a significant presence of Baptist and Methodist communities

When moving from Chicago to Virginia Beach, you'll find the political landscape shifts from a historically Democratic dominance to an area where Republican views are more prevalent. This change mirrors the overall political inclinations of their respective states, Illinois and Virginia. The governance structure of both cities is accessible online, offering resources and insight into local legislation and community initiatives. Additionally, while Chicago's religious makeup is diverse, in Virginia Beach, you'll encounter a stronger presence of Christian denominations, particularly Baptist and Methodist communities. Understanding these differences can help you better integrate into your new home's social and political fabric.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Virginia Beach

If you're considering a move from Chicago, IL to Virginia Beach, VA, it's crucial to understand how your daily commute and traffic experiences might change. This guide focuses on a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Virginia Beach, providing you with insights to better navigate your new city.

ChicagoVirginia Beach
3424

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 a car?

In Chicago, the average commute time is significantly longer than in Virginia Beach, reflecting the city's larger geographical size and higher population density. With a high traffic congestion score, navigating Chicago can be challenging, but its robust public transit system, including buses and the "L" train, offers a viable alternative to driving. Conversely, while Virginia Beach has less traffic congestion and shorter commute times, its public transit options are limited. Relying on a car is almost a necessity in Virginia Beach for convenience and accessibility to various parts of the city and surrounding areas.

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