Best Chicago to Vancouver Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Chicago to Vancouver Movers

Moving from the bustling Windy City to the serene Evergreen State is an adventure brimming with new possibilities and life changes. You're trading Chicago's towering skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza for Vancouver's scenic landscapes and a more laid-back vibe. For such a significant life transition, it's crucial to have trusted and reliable professional movers by your side, ensuring a smooth journey from start to finish. At Great Guys Moving, we rank the best movers using an unbiased algorithm, helping you make an informed decision for your long-distance move.

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Best Chicago to Vancouver 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
Northwest Grace Moving9.29A+Authorized For HHGContact
All Service Moving9.27A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Vancouver to Chicago guide.

5 Best Chicago to Vancouver 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
Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional9.29/10
based on 605+ data points

About Northwest Grace Moving

Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland Metro...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Senior Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1999959 / 755213

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
All Service Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 9,065+ data points

About All Service Moving

Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By using a ...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1863079 / 722865

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans80
Registered Drivers113
Total Annual Miles Moved1,186,786 (2022)
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. Vancouver Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be an adventurous yet daunting task, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that includes a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Vancouver, WA . This comparison aims to help you find a neighborhood in Vancouver that feels like home, using your familiarity with Chicago's vibrant communities as a baseline.

ChicagoVancouverHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkFisher's Landing EastFamily-friendly, plentiful parks
Wicker ParkCarter ParkArtsy vibe, historical touch
Hyde ParkShumwayEducational institutions, historic homes
Gold CoastFelidaUpscale, scenic views
The LoopDowntown VancouverUrban center, commercial hub
Logan SquareArnadaVibrant community, eclectic mix
River NorthEsther ShortLively nightlife, culinary scene
LakeviewFairway 164thActive lifestyle, community events
PilsenHoughCultural diversity, unique eateries
BridgeportLincolnFamily-oriented, quiet charm

Exploring neighborhoods like Fisher's Landing East in Vancouver can evoke the familial warmth and green spaces found in Chicago's Lincoln Park. Here, you can enjoy an afternoon at Marine Park, closely resembling the outdoor enjoyment Lincoln Park provides. For those captivated by the creative energy and vintage allure of Wicker Park, Carter Park in Vancouver offers a similar artsy vibe accentuated by the historical character of its surroundings. Enjoy a stroll through the Carter Park neighborhood to experience its eclectic mix of local businesses and charming architecture, reminiscent of a sunny day wandering through Wicker Park's bustling streets, filled with artists and musicians. In essence, each of these Vancouver neighborhoods shares a unique connection with their Chicago counterparts, offering familiar comforts and new opportunities to explore and fall in love with your new home.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Vancouver

  • Explore Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.
  • Stroll along Vancouver Waterfront Park.
  • Attend summer concerts at Esther Short Park.
  • Visit Pearson Air Museum.
  • Enjoy wine tasting at Maryhill Winery Tasting Room.
  • Take kids to Marshall Community Park.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Vancouver

Moving can be a complex decision. This comparison aims to give you a realistic perspective on the transition from Chicago, IL to Vancouver, WA , highlighting both the challenges and advantages. By contrasting the distinct aspects of each city, you can weigh the cons against the pros and vice versa, making an informed decision about your relocation.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • High crime rates
  • Harsh winters
  • Higher living cost
  • Traffic congestion
  • Limited nature access
Vancouver, WA iconVancouver, WA
  • Lower crime rates
  • Milder climate
  • More affordable living
  • Less traffic
  • Abundant nature access
Vancouver, WA iconVancouver, WA
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Less diversity
  • Smaller transit system
  • Fewer big sports events
  • Less iconic skyline
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Cultural diversity
  • Vast public transit
  • Major sports events
  • Iconic architecture

Moving from the bustling cityscape of Chicago with its iconic skyline, including Willis Tower and Millennium Park, to the green haven of Vancouver, WA, surrounded by the Columbia River and Mount St. Helens, offers a change of pace. Vancouver's Esther Short Park stands in contrast to Chicago's Grant Park, offering a more intimate setting for community gatherings and events. Local eateries such as The Grant House on Officer's Row give a homely, historic dining experience, dissimilar to the vast culinary diversity in Chicago's neighborhoods like The West Loop. However, while Vancouver provides a serene retreat and closer access to nature with spots like the Columbia River Gorge, potential residents might miss Chicago's endless cultural festivities and diverse food scene, including iconic restaurants like Girl & The Goat. The move to Vancouver could mean embracing the outdoors with hikes at Moulton Falls and indulging in the local craft breweries, a different but equally enriching community life.

Chicago vs. Vancouver Food Guide

As you prepare for your big move, understanding the local culture is key, and food plays a massive part in that. This guide will highlight the differences in culinary experiences, allowing you to anticipate the tastes and dining options awaiting you. We compare the local cuisine between Chicago & Vancouver to give you a flavorful preview of both cities.

ChicagoVancouver
Most iconic local food itemDeep Dish PizzaCedar-Planked Salmon
Most popular meat dishItalian Beef SandwichSmoked Brisket
Most popular street food itemChicago-style Hot DogTacos
Most popular vegan foodChicago Diner's Vegan ShakeVegan Buddha Bowl
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Alinea
  • Lou Malnati's
  • Portillo's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

While Chicago is renowned for its deep-dish pizza and iconic hot dogs, the food scene in Vancouver, WA, showcases a strong influence from the Pacific Northwest, with cedar-planked salmon leading as its most iconic dish. If you're planning a move to Vancouver, you'll be delighted by the abundance of fresh, local seafood available. The city also thrives in its variety of vegan options, such as the popular Vegan Buddha Bowl found at local eateries. Furthermore, Vancouver's food scene is notable for its health-conscious options and an impressive array of food trucks serving everything from gourmet tacos to artisanal coffees. Exploring neighborhoods like Uptown Village or the Waterfront will offer a glimpse into Vancouver's culinary delights.

Chicago vs. Vancouver Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison between Chicago and Vancouver, WA, is designed to help you quickly feel at home by finding your new favorite spots, based on your current gastronomic loves. Whether you appreciate high-end dining, casual eateries, or iconic food joints, this guide aims to provide a familiar taste or environment in your new locale.

ChicagoVancouverWhat You'll Love
AlineaAtaulaExquisite dining with a creative twist, echoing Alinea's innovative approach
Portillo'sSmokehouse ProvisionsLegendary for BBQ, reminiscent of Portillo's iconic status but with smoked delights
Girl & The GoatHudson's Bar and GrillFarm-to-table dining with a rustic charm, mirroring the innovative, eclectic style
Pequod's PizzaApizza SchollsCelebrated for their crust, providing a comparable cult pizza experience
The Purple PigThe Grocery Cocktail & SocialShared plates and vibrant atmosphere channeling The Purple Pig's charm
Giordano'sJuliano's PizzeriaDeep-dish heaven for those missing Chicago's iconic pizza
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabWildFin American GrillFresh, quality seafood and prime steaks that rival Joe's upscale offerings
Rick Bayless's XocoJorge's Tequila FactoryAuthentic Mexican eats with a vibrant atmosphere that's reminiscent of Xoco's energy
Gene & Jude'sDon & Joe's MeatsA dive into the classic American hot dog stand experience, with a local twist
The BerghoffGustav's Pub & GrillOffering a slice of German heritage, akin to The Berghoff's traditional dining

Ataula in Vancouver captures the culinary creativity and excellence that Alinea is known for in Chicago, making it a top destination for those seeking an unforgettable dining experience. Meanwhile, pizza aficionados missing Pequod's Pizza can find solace in Apizza Scholls, whose dedication to crafting the perfect crust echoes the iconic Chicago experience. On a more casual note, Smokehouse Provisions brings a touch of Portillo's beloved atmosphere to Vancouver with its own twist on BBQ and smoked dishes, proving that, no matter the distance, you can find a taste of home.

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Ready to start your move?

Chicago vs. Vancouver Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on the distinctive housing characteristics of Chicago, IL and Vancouver, WA . By exploring factors such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs.

ComparisonChicagoVancouver
Typical Architecture StyleModern and historical mixNorthwest and ranch
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLake views, proximity to public transitFamily-friendly neighborhoods, outdoor spaces

While Chicago is known for its blend of modern and historic architecture, Vancouver highlights a preference for Northwest and ranch-style homes reflecting its more suburban character. The median home price in Vancouver is higher; however, Chicago's urban lifestyle scores higher due to its vibrant city life, extensive public transit, and cultural landmarks. Vancouver, on the other hand, boasts better bikeability and a focus on outdoor living, making it ideal for those who prioritize green spaces and a less hectic environment. Deciding between these cities involves weighing the importance of urban excitement against a calmer, more relaxed lifestyle influenced by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Vancouver, WA

1. Fisher's Landing East: Known for its extensive walking trails and dog-friendly parks, such as the popular Dogwood Dog Park, Fisher's Landing East is perfect for pets who love to explore outdoors.

2. Lincoln: With its welcoming vibe, Lincoln boasts pet-friendly dining options and the beautiful Esther Short Park, where you can enjoy open spaces and community events with your four-legged friends.

3. Shumway: Close to the heart of Vancouver, Shumway offers easy access to pet services and supplies, including numerous Petco locations, and is a stone's throw away from several pet-friendly cafes and shops.

Chicago vs. Vancouver Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Chicago, IL to Vancouver, WA, understanding the weather differences is crucial. It can greatly impact your daily life and comfort. To help you grasp these changes, we provide a comprehensive comparison of weather patterns, including average temperatures, humidity, and more. This data will ensure you're well-prepared for what awaits in your new home. The purpose of these charts is to compare the weather between Chicago and Vancouver and make your transition as smooth as possible.

Summer icon
85°F / 65°F

Chicago, IL

80°F / 58°F

Vancouver, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
32°F / 18°F

Chicago, IL

47°F / 35°F

Vancouver, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

42

Vancouver, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

2

Vancouver, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonChicagoVancouver
Air QualityGood to ModerateGood
Natural DisastersTornadoes, BlizzardsEarthquakes, Volcanoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Chicago and Vancouver enjoy four distinct seasons, the move will introduce you to milder winters and slightly cooler summers in Vancouver. The noticeable difference in annual snowfall, with Vancouver receiving significantly less, marks a substantial shift in winter activities and necessities. Additionally, Vancouver's higher annual rainfall translates to a more lush and green environment, yet it may also mean investing in rain gear. Air quality tends to be better in Vancouver, which can be a relief if you're sensitive to pollution. Overall, your move from Chicago to Vancouver will require some adjustments to your wardrobe and possibly your outdoor activities, but it's nothing that a bit of preparation can't handle.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning your move from Chicago, IL to Vancouver, WA, it's crucial to compare how your finances might change. This comparison will help you understand the differences in cost of living, taxation, and overall economic environment between Chicago and Vancouver, ensuring you're well-prepared for your relocation.

ComparisonChicagoVancouver
Avg. Household Income$66,576$69,993
Cost of Living Index116.994.8
State Income Tax4.950 (Washington has no state income tax)
Avg. Property Tax2.101.03
Avg. Sales Tax10.258.4
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Insurance, ManufacturingTechnology, Health Care, Retail
AffluenceModerateModerate
PovertySignificantNoticeable
HomelessnessHighModerate

The cost of living index reveals that both Chicago and Vancouver have higher-than-average costs, though Chicago is slightly more expensive. Notably, the absence of state income tax in Vancouver could be a considerable financial advantage for you. Furthermore, while average household incomes are higher in Chicago, the difference in taxation, especially regarding property and sales taxes, might result in a similar or better standard of living in Vancouver. Understanding these differences in economic factors, such as the impact of different top industries on job opportunities, is essential as you prepare for your move.

Chicago vs. Vancouver Political & Religious Comparison

In considering a move from Chicago, IL to Vancouver, WA, it's insightful to compare the communities you're transitioning between. This quick glance offers a comparative view of the political and religious makeup between Chicago & Vancouver, giving you a better understanding of the neighborhoods and societal environments you'll be embracing.

ChicagoVancouver
Political Make-upLiberal/DemocraticModerately Liberal/Democratic
Local PoliticsDominantly Democratic LeadershipDiverse Political Leadership
ReligionHighly DiverseModerately Diverse

When comparing Chicago and Vancouver, you'll find both cities lean liberal but with varying intensities. Chicago is well-known for its strong Democratic leadership and vast political engagement among residents, reflecting a deep-seated tradition in local politics. Vancouver, while also liberal, presents a more balanced political landscape, enabling a diversity of political opinions and leadership. Regarding religion, both cities embrace diversity, yet Chicago's sheer size and demographic variety offer a broader spectrum of religious communities and institutions. This information should help you gauge how well your personal beliefs and preferences align with your new neighborhood in Vancouver.

Chicago vs. Vancouver Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When planning a move from Chicago, IL to Vancouver, WA, it's crucial to understand the differences in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Vancouver will help you gauge how your daily movements might change.

ComparisonChicagoVancouver
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3426
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesIt's challenging

Moving from Chicago to Vancouver means your average commute time could potentially decrease, giving you more time for yourself each day. Although traffic congestion is less severe in Vancouver, the city's public transit options aren't as extensive as Chicago's. In Chicago, you can easily rely on the CTA for most of your travel needs, making it feasible to live without owning a car. However, in Vancouver, while there is public transportation available, the coverage might not be as comprehensive, particularly outside the city center. This could mean a shift towards more car dependency compared to what you might be used to in Chicago.

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