Moving from Chicago to Spokane?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Chicago to Spokane Movers

Moving from the Windy City to the Lilac City marks not just a change in geography but an exciting chapter in your life. Chicago's bustling streets and architectural marvels give way to Spokane's outdoor adventures and tight-knit community vibes. In this journey of nearly 2,000 miles, securing trusted and reliable professional movers is crucial to ensure your belongings arrive safely, making Great Guys Moving your ideal partner in navigating this significant life transition.

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

5 Best Chicago to Spokane 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
top 3 ranked movers in chicago 2023 move tastic image
#3
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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#4
Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,004+ data points

Post Falls, ID
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/25/2022)

USDOT: 3119758 Verify

About Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers

Lake Coeur d’Alene Movers is a premier moving company in North Idaho, offering services throughout the region. Voted Best Moving Company in ...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in spokane 2023 lake coeur dalene movers image
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#5
Spokane Pro Movers Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,526+ data points

Spokane, WA
On-Site Moves, Packing Services, Long Distance Move See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 3111146 Verify

About Spokane Pro Movers

With more than 800 moves completed and plenty of 5-star reviews, Spokane Pro Movers offers worry-free local, intrastate, and interstate relo...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in spokane 2023 spokane pro movers image
top 10 ranked movers in spokane 2022 spokane pro movers image

Relocating from Chicago to Spokane Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when trying to find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with Spokane, WA by drawing parallels with what you already know and love about Chicago, IL. By comparing local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Spokane, WA , we'll find the closest matches to ease your transition.

ChicagoSpokane
Lincoln ParkManito/Cannon Hill

Scenic parks, vibrant community

Wicker ParkPerry District

Artsy, hip vibe with local shops

The LoopDowntown Spokane

Urban living, cultural attractions

Gold CoastCliff/Cannon

Historic, upscale living

Old TownBrowne's Addition

Charming, with a historic feel

Hyde ParkSouth Hill

Diverse, with educational institutions

Logan SquareKendall Yards

Trendy eateries, modern housing

AndersonvilleGarland District

Eclectic shops, strong sense of community

LakeviewFive Mile Prairie

Family-friendly, outdoor activities

River NorthWest Central

Arts and entertainment, diverse dining

In comparing these neighborhoods, you'll find Spokane's Manito/Cannon Hill mirrors the scenic parks and vibrant community of Chicago's Lincoln Park, offering sprawling greenspaces like Manito Park that host social gatherings and outdoor activities. The Perry District offers an artsy hub reminiscent of Wicker Park, with local shops and eateries like Perry Street Brewing adding to its hip vibe. Browne's Addition draws parallels with Old Town, providing a historic feel and charm alongside cultural landmarks such as the Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture. Nestled in Kendall Yards, modern housing and trendy eateries echo the atmosphere found in Chicago’s Logan Square, making each neighborhood a vibrant and dynamic place to call home.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Spokane

Making the move from Chicago, IL to Spokane, WA requires consideration of multiple factors. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, comparing the pros and cons of both cities to help you make a well-informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • High crime rates
  • Costly living
  • Harsh winters
  • Heavy traffic
  • High taxes
Spokane, WA iconSpokane, WA
  • Lower crime rates
  • Affordable housing
  • Milder winters
  • Lesser traffic
  • Lower taxes
Spokane, WA iconSpokane, WA
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Less diversity in cuisine
  • Limited public transit
  • Fewer major sports events
  • Fewer job opportunities
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant culture
  • Diverse food options
  • Extensive public transit
  • Major sports teams
  • Lots of job opportunities

Moving from Chicago's vibrant, bustling streets to Spokane's more relaxed pace brings a significant lifestyle change. Spokane offers a welcomed escape with its Riverfront Park, which aside from being a scenic retreat in the heart of the city, hosts numerous community events throughout the year. In contrast, Chicago's Millennium Park is famous for its Cloud Gate sculpture and summer concerts. However, Spokane counters with its thriving local food scene, showcasing establishments such as Wild Sage Bistro which emphasizes locally sourced ingredients, providing a unique taste of the Pacific Northwest's bounty. While Chicago offers a more extensive array of international cuisines and job opportunities, Spokane’s charming neighborhoods and outdoor recreational opportunities, like those in Manito Park and along the Centennial Trail, offer a distinct type of appeal.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Chicago to Spokane

Food is a crucial aspect of local culture and daily life, impacting the overall living experience in any area. To help you get a sense of what culinary delights await, we provide a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Spokane . Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply curious about your new home's gastronomic scene, this guide will help inform your palate and expectations.

ChicagoSpokane

Most iconic local food item

Deep Dish PizzaWild Salmon

Most popular meat dish

Italian Beef SandwichSmoked Steelhead

Most popular street food item

Chicago-style Hot DogElk & Bison Burgers

Most popular vegan food

Seitan WingsQuinoa Salad

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    • Aurelio's Pizza
    • Portillo's
    • Girl & The Goat

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

97

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

87

When moving from Chicago to Spokane, you'll transition from the bustling, diverse food scene famed for its deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs to a more rustic, nature-influenced cuisine focusing on locally-sourced ingredients like wild salmon and elk. Spokane's dining scene is intensely local, with restaurants like Wild Sage Bistro and Frank's Diner celebrating Pacific Northwestern ingredients. Whether you're exploring the historic neighborhoods of Browne's Addition or downtown Spokane, you'll find that the city's culinary scene, while less intense than Chicago's, is deeply committed to quality and local flavors. Spokane's escalating foodie culture also embraces vegan and health-conscious dining, ensuring a diverse palette for all tastes.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Chicago to Spokane

When relocating, discovering new go-to eateries is crucial for making a place feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants from Chicago, IL to Spokane, WA will help you in finding new favorites, drawing parallels from your current beloved spots. Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic dishes, this guide serves as your culinary compass in transitioning to Spokane.

AlineaWild Sage Bistro

Renowned for its innovative, seasonal tasting menus

Portillo'sDick's Hamburgers

Iconic for its quick, Chicago-style fast food vibes

Gibsons Bar & SteakhouseChurchill's Steakhouse

Offers top-quality steaks in an opulent setting

Girl & The GoatThe Wandering Table

Known for eclectic, shareable plates in a lively atmosphere

Lou Malnati's PizzeriaThe Flying Goat

Famous for artisanal pizzas with innovate toppings

The Purple PigRuins

Offers a quirky, creative tapas-style menu in a casual environment

Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabAnthony's HomePort

Specializes in fresh seafood and prime steaks, boasting river views

MonteverdeItalia Trattoria

Celebrated for its home-made pasta and rustic Italian fare

Frontera GrillCarnegie’s

Known for vibrant flavors akin to Rick Bayless’s creations

Big StarTecate Grill

Offers a laid-back spot for Mexican fare, mirroring Big Star's vibe

For those moving from Chicago to Spokane and worried about finding new dining spots, rest assured there are stellar options awaiting. Churchill's Steakhouse captures the essence of high-quality meats and upscale dining much like Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse in Chicago. If it's innovative, family-style dining you're after, The Wandering Table in Spokane echoes the lively and diverse culinary experience found at Girl & The Goat. And for those who have special memories tied to Portillo's fast and distinctive bites, Dick's Hamburgers will quickly become your new go-to for a quick, satisfying meal that mirrors that iconic Chicago flavor. Dive into each of these Spokane alternatives to discover flavors and atmospheres that resonate with your Chicago favorites, ensuring your new city feels just like home.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Chicago to Spokane

Real estate is a crucial aspect of any move. In comparing Chicago, IL and Spokane, WA, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what each city offers in terms of housing costs, styles, and livability. This analysis can help guide your decision in choosing the right city for your new home.

In terms of housing, both Chicago and Spokane offer unique advantages. Chicago's architecture, marked by majestic brownstones and towering skyscrapers, caters to those seeking an urban atmosphere with access to public transport and the iconic Lake Michigan view1. On the other hand, Spokane appeals to those yearning for a quieter, more spacious living environment amidst craftsman and ranch style homes2. Despite a higher median home price, Spokane offers lower monthly rents, making it an attractive option for renters. However, for those who prioritize walkability and an urban lifestyle, Chicago's robust public transit system and vibrant city life present a compelling reason to consider it as your next home.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Spokane, WA

1. South Hill: Known for its expansive parks like Manito Park and abundant walkable neighborhoods, South Hill is a paradise for the active pet and their owner.

2. Kendall Yards: This modern, urban neighborhood offers pet-friendly dining options and access to the Centennial Trail, making it ideal for social pets and owners who enjoy outings together.

3. Perry District: The Perry District is celebrated for its welcoming local businesses, including pet-friendly cafes and the nearby Liberty Park, offering you and your furry companion a vibrant community atmosphere.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Spokane

Moving from one location to another can significantly impact your daily life, especially when the weather is concerned. This comparison is designed to help you understand how the climate in Chicago, IL, and Spokane, WA will affect you. Knowing the differences can better prepare you for your new home.

Summer icon
85°F / 68°F

Chicago, IL

85°F / 55°F

Spokane, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
36°F / 22°F

Chicago, IL

34°F / 24°F

Spokane, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36.89

Chicago, IL

16.53

Spokane, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

44

Spokane, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Understanding the differences between Chicago's and Spokane's weather helps you anticipate what your new home has in store. For example, while both cities experience similar summer temperatures, the nighttime in Spokane cools down much more. This may affect your evening and morning routines, comfort, and energy consumption. Moreover, Spokane sees slightly more snowfall than Chicago, which could influence your winter outdoor activities and commute. Adjustments in wardrobe and lifestyle could be necessary to adapt to these changes, ensuring your move is as seamless as possible.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how your finances will be impacted. This comparison aims to shed light on the financial aspects of moving from Chicago, IL to Spokane, WA, providing insights into income, taxes, and living costs to ensure you make an informed decision.

Moving from Chicago to Spokane implies transitioning to a city with a lower average household income but also a slightly lower cost of living. The absence of state income tax in Washington offers a clear financial benefit over Illinois. However, Spokane's average property and sales tax rates, while lower than Chicago's, still need to be considered in budgeting. Spokane's top industries indicate a shift towards education and retail, highlighting potential employment opportunities distinct from those prevalent in Chicago. Moreover, despite both cities facing challenges with poverty and homelessness, these factors play out differently in local contexts, affecting community resources and support systems.

Political & Religious Comparison between Chicago, IL and Spokane, WA

When contemplating the move from Chicago, IL to Spokane, WA, understanding the local cultural and societal makeup can ease the transition. This guide provides a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Chicago & Spokane , offering insights into what you might expect in your new home.

ChicagoSpokane

Political Make-up

Heavily DemocraticModerately Republican

Local Politics

Progressive urban policiesConservative-leaning, with a focus on small government

Religion

Diverse, with significant Catholic, Jewish, and Muslim communitiesPrimarily Christian, with a mix of Evangelical, Catholic, and Protestant denominations

In moving from Chicago to Spokane, you'll experience a considerable shift not only in political alignment but in the religious landscape as well. Whereas Chicago's political scene is predominantly Democratic with a wide variety of religious beliefs and practices reflecting its diverse population, Spokane's community leans more Republican with a pronounced Christian influence. This religious presence is palpable in Spokane's many churches and faith-based community events. Understanding these differences can help you connect with your new community and engage in local discussions and activities that resonate with your personal beliefs and interests.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Spokane

Moving from Chicago, IL, to Spokane, WA, brings many changes, including how you might commute. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Spokane aims to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experiences could be like in these cities.

ChicagoSpokane
3422

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

73

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

85

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

YesMore challenging

Can you get by without car?

When comparing Chicago and Spokane, you'll notice significant differences in your commuting experience. Chicago, with a robust public transit system that includes buses, trains, and subways, allows many of its residents to forgo owning a car. It's easier to live in Chicago without a car, thanks to the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). Spokane, while it boasts lower traffic congestion and a shorter average commute time, has a less extensive public transit system, making it more challenging to depend solely on public transportation. The differences underscore the more car-dependent lifestyle you may encounter in Spokane compared to the highly walkable and transit-friendly environment of Chicago.

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