Best Fort Wayne to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide

Get a Quote Now!

Fort Wayne to Chicago Movers

Moving from Fort Wayne, IN to Chicago, IL is an exhilarating leap into a new chapter of your life. Leaving behind the laid-back vibe of "The Summit City" for the bustling streets and towering skyline of "The Windy City" marks a significant shift in scenery and opportunities. Recognizing the distance and complexities of such a move, it's crucial to entrust your journey to professional movers we've meticulously ranked to ensure your transition is smooth and stress-free.

Indiana iconArrow iconIllinois icon

Best Fort Wayne to Chicago Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
MVM Moving & Storage9.23A+Authorized For HHGContact
Two Men and a Truck7.51A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
My Movers Inc.7.38A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
U-turn icon

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

5 Best Fort Wayne to Chicago 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 10/18/2024)

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 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers26
Total Annual Miles Moved86,474 (2022)
View Full Review
2
MVM Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.23/10
based on 1,395+ data points

About MVM Moving & Storage

Since 2006, MVM Moving and Storage has been assisting residents of Fort Wayne, IN, streamline their relocation process with its cost-effecti...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Move
  • Commercial Move
  • Local Move

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/29/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3098388 / 76046

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved75,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
Two Men and a Truck Logo
7.51/10
based on 2,014+ data points

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck has locations across the country, with its Fort Wayne location opening in 2005. This nationally-recognized moving compan...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Junk removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/5/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2644320 / FF-19934 922003

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved410,321 (2022)
View Full Review
4
My Movers Inc. Logo
7.38/10
based on 53+ data points

About My Movers Inc.

Founded in 1974, this family-owned company has been one of Indiana's top moving companies for decades. My Movers Inc has the experience nece...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2572145 / 897319

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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.

Fort Wayne vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

Looking to move but want to find a piece of home in your new city? Our guide is designed to compare neighborhoods between Fort Wayne, IN & Chicago, IL , helping you familiarize yourself with the local areas. We pair up top neighborhoods from Fort Wayne with their most comparable counterparts in Chicago, offering a crib note on why they resonate with each other.

Fort WayneChicagoHow They're Similar
AboiteBeverlyFamily-friendly, historic homes
New HavenEdison ParkQuiet, community-focused
West CentralWicker ParkVibrant nightlife, artistic scene
North Anthony AreaAndersonvilleDiverse, rich cultural history
Southwest WaynedaleHyde ParkDiverse, rich history
GeorgetownLakeviewBustling, with a variety of entertainment
Pine ValleyLincoln ParkUpscale, green spaces
Canterbury GreenRoscoe VillageLaid back, family-friendly
PoplarBucktownHip, with a creative vibe
HarlanRavenswoodQuiet, residential, historic charm

In comparing the vibrance of West Central Fort Wayne to Chicago's Wicker Park, you're transitioning from one lively neighborhood to another where the heart of creativity and nightlife beats strongly. Imagine strolling down Milwaukee Avenue in Wicker Park, diving into colorful murals, vintage shops, and bustling cafes like The Wormhole Coffee, mirroring West Central’s own Broadway Corridor. For those moving from Pine Valley's spacious parks and family-friendly atmosphere, Lincoln Park offers an urban oasis with attractions like the Lincoln Park Zoo and vast green spaces, embodying both urban sophistication and nature's tranquility. The seamless blend of shopping, dining, and nature between these neighborhoods reflects a shared ethos of community and quality of life, ensuring a smoother transition to your new Chicago surroundings.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Fort Wayne to Chicago

Moving from one city to another is an adventure packed with opportunities and challenges. This comparison offers an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Fort Wayne, IN to Chicago, IL . It’s designed to give you a clear perspective on what you’re leaving behind and what awaits in your new city.

CONs
PROs
Fort Wayne, IN iconFort Wayne, IN
  • Smaller job market
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Limited nightlife
  • Less public transit options
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Diverse job opportunities
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Extensive public transit
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher cost of living
  • More urban
  • Heavier traffic
  • Less personal
Fort Wayne, IN iconFort Wayne, IN
  • Lower cost of living
  • More suburban feel
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Smaller community

Moving to Chicago from Fort Wayne introduces you to a bustling urban environment with far-reaching benefits and inevitable challenges. Chicago's diverse job market, for example, caters to a variety of industries, offering expansive career opportunities in sectors like finance, technology, and healthcare. Cultural diversity is another significant perk, with neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy, and Pilsen each offering unique cultural experiences, authentic cuisine at places like Riccardo Trattoria in Lincoln Park, and vibrant festivals. Transitioning to a city with a rich array of entertainment and dining options, such as the renowned comedy scene at The Second City, or the historical sights and sounds along the Magnificent Mile, ensures there's always something new to explore. However, this comes with the challenge of adapting to a higher cost of living and navigating through more congested traffic. Yet, Chicago's efficient public transit system, including the 'L' train, offers a convenient solution for getting around the city and exploring its numerous parks, like Millennium Park, and waterfront attractions.

Fort Wayne vs. Chicago Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Fort Wayne & Chicago sheds light on the food as a vibrant marker of cultural life. Whether you're relocating or just curious, knowing what culinary delights await can greatly enhance your experience of settling into a new city.

Fort WayneChicago
Most iconic local food itemGarbage PlateDeep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishPork Tenderloin SandwichItalian Beef
Most popular street food itemBratwurstChicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodVegetable SamosasSeitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Cindy's Diner
  • Club Soda
  • DeBrand Fine Chocolates
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Al's Italian Beef
  • Aurelio's Pizza
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Chicago, the food scene is as vast and varied as the city itself. Neighborhoods like Logan Square and the West Loop are meccas for foodies, offering an eclectic mix from Michelin-starred restaurants to innovative food trucks. The iconic deep dish pizza, emblematic of the city, can be savored at institutions like Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria. Chicago's Italian Beef, another beloved local specialty, signifies the city's rich culinary heritage, available at classics like Al's Italian Beef. For those seeking plant-based delights, areas like Wicker Park boast a burgeoning vegan scene, with spots like The Chicago Diner leading the charge in creative, animal-free cuisine.

Fort Wayne vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison from Fort Wayne to Chicago will help in finding new favorite spots that echo the flavors and vibes of your current favorites. Whether you're after high-end dining, casual eats, or something iconic and foodie-approved, this guide has got you covered.

Fort WayneChicagoWhat You'll Love
Catablu GrilleGirl & The GoatDiverse, bold flavors in a trendy setting
Copper SpoonavecCozy, communal dining with inventive dishes
Paula’s On MainJoe's SeafoodElevated seafood dining experience
TolonPublicanFocus on farm-to-table fare in a rustic setting
Shigs In PitSmoque BBQAuthentic barbecue with a focus on quality
Club SodaGreen MillIconic jazz club with a solid menu
JK O’Donnell’sThe GageUpmarket pub fare in a prime location
DeBrand Fine ChocolatesChocolat UzmaArtisan chocolate shop with unique offerings
Banh Mi BaristaSaigon SistersAuthentic Vietnamese with a modern twist
Casa Ristoranti ItalianoSapori TrattoriaCozy, authentic Italian dining

For those longing for the bold and diverse flavors they loved at Catablu Grille in Fort Wayne, Girl & The Goat in Chicago will not disappoint, offering a trendy setting to match its inventive menu. Similarly, BBQ enthusiasts who frequented Shigs In Pit will find a new haven at Smoque BBQ, where the dedication to authentic, smoky flavors reigns supreme. Chocolate lovers accustomed to the indulgent treats at DeBrand Fine Chocolates have a delightful counterpart in Chicago's Chocolat Uzma, an artisan chocolate shop that prides itself on its unique and high-quality offerings. Each restaurant on this list not only provides a taste reminiscent of Fort Wayne but also adds a distinctive flair that Chicago is known for, ensuring an exciting culinary exploration in your new city.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Fort Wayne vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

When you're planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. Comparing Fort Wayne, IN to Chicago, IL highlights significant differences and similarities in living conditions, making your decision better informed.

ComparisonFort WayneChicago
Typical Architecture StyleRanch, ColonialModern, Greystone
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingFamily-friendly, Spacious yardsLake views, Proximity to public transit

The difference in housing costs between Fort Wayne and Chicago is significant, with median home prices and monthly rents substantially higher in Chicago. This reflects the high demand and vibrant urban environment of Chicago, offering diverse architecture from modern skyscrapers to traditional greystones. In contrast, Fort Wayne's lower costs are attractive to those seeking a more spacious and affordable living situation, often highlighted by its family-friendly neighborhoods and larger yards. Chicago's high walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle scores indicate a city bustling with activity and convenience, closely connected by an extensive public transit system making places like The Art Institute of Chicago and Millennium Park easily accessible.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL

1. Lincoln Park: With its sprawling namesake park, you'll find plenty of green spaces for walks and the Lincoln Park Dog Park where your furry friend can run off-leash.

2. Lakeview: Home to the popular Wiggly Field Dog Park, Lakeview offers an urban setting with a pet-friendly attitude, hosting numerous pet supply shops and pet-friendly patios.

3. Andersonville: This community-oriented neighborhood not only features pet-friendly dining and shopping but also events like the annual Andersonville Pet Parade, making it a delightful place for pet owners.

Fort Wayne vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

If you're considering moving from one city to another, it's essential to understand how the weather will compare. This comparison between Fort Wayne and Chicago will help you adjust your expectations and prepare for your new home environment.

Summer icon
84°F / 63°F

Fort Wayne, IN

83°F / 64°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
34°F / 18°F

Fort Wayne, IN

31°F / 18°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
38

Fort Wayne, IN

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
33

Fort Wayne, IN

37

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonFort WayneChicago
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersSevere Storms, TornadoesSevere Storms, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Fort Wayne to Chicago, expect similar weather conditions but with slight differences in seasonal extremes. Chicago experiences a bit more snow during the winter, with an annual average of 37 inches compared to Fort Wayne's 33 inches, which can influence the amount of winter prep and activities available. Sunshine days are comparable, but Chicago has a slight edge, which might make the city's winters feel a bit brighter. Air quality in Chicago is rated as moderate, which could be a consideration for those with respiratory issues. Understanding these variations will help you adapt more quickly to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

Understanding the financial implications of moving is crucial. Comparing the cost of living, taxes, and economic environment between Fort Wayne and Chicago provides a clearer picture of what to expect. This comparison aims to prepare you for the financial transition from one city to the other.

ComparisonFort WayneChicago
Avg. Household Income$54,737$66,576
Cost of Living Index94.4116.9
State Income Tax3.234.95
Avg. Property Tax0.872.10
Avg. Sales Tax710.25
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Healthcare, RetailFinance, Manufacturing, Technology
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessModerateHigh

When considering the move from Fort Wayne to Chicago, it's crucial to note the substantial differences in living costs and taxation. Chicago's higher average household income is countered by a significantly higher cost of living and sales tax, making everyday expenses more substantial. However, the presence of top-tier industries in finance and technology presents potentially lucrative opportunities for career advancements. Despite the economic prospects, be prepared for a shift in economic dynamics, especially in dealing with higher property and sales taxes which contribute to the overall cost of living adjustment.

Fort Wayne vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be quite the journey, especially when diving into the different cultural and social landscapes. This brief comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between your current home and your future community. It is designed to highlight the politics and religious affiliations between Fort Wayne & Chicago, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect.

Fort WayneChicago
Political Make-upModerately ConservativeLiberal
Local PoliticsMixed, with Republican leadership in city governmentMostly Democratic leadership
ReligionChristian (various denominations)Christian (various denominations), with a significant presence of other religions

When you're moving from Fort Wayne to Chicago, you'll notice the diverse social and cultural changes, especially within political views and religious practices. Fort Wayne's moderately conservative lean is mirrored in its mixed local political leadership. In contrast, Chicago, known for its liberal stance, showcases predominantly Democratic leadership, reflecting the city's more progressive outlook. Additionally, while both cities have a strong Christian presence, Chicago's larger population and diverse demographics invite a wider array of religious communities and practices, enriching the cosmopolitan tapestry of the city.

Fort Wayne vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial for anyone moving from Fort Wayne, IN to Chicago, IL. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Fort Wayne & Chicago will help you adjust to the differences in driving and transiting in these two cities.

ComparisonFort WayneChicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2234
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

While Fort Wayne boasts shorter average commute times and less traffic congestion compared to Chicago, it significantly lags in terms of public transit availability. In Fort Wayne, owning a car is almost a necessity due to the limited public transportation options. On the other hand, Chicago's robust public transit system, including the CTA, Metra, and buses, makes it possible to navigate the city without a car. Traffic congestion in Chicago is notably higher, which makes the extensive public transport options even more valuable for daily commuting.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Fort Wayne to Chicago Movers Featured Image
Popular moving routes background image

Popular Fort Wayne, IN to Illinois Moving Routes