Best Kansas City to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide

Get a Quote Now!

Kansas City to Chicago Movers

Moving from Kansas City, the heart of barbecue and jazz, to Chicago, the Windy City known for its stunning skyline and deep-dish pizza, marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're leaving behind the familiarity of the City of Fountains for an adventure in a city that's a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and historical landmarks. Given the distance and complexity of this move, it's crucial to rely on professional movers you can trust, which is why we work tirelessly to connect you with the best, most reliable movers for a stress-free transition.

Kansas iconArrow iconIllinois icon

Best Kansas City to Chicago Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
God's Movers, LLC9.07A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Golden Rule Relocation8.99A+Authorized For HHGContact
Courtesy Movers LLC8.98B-Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
U-turn icon

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

5 Best Kansas City 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
God's Movers, LLC Logo
Exceptional9.07/10
based on 503+ data points

About God's Movers, LLC

God’s Movers is a family-owned and operated moving company that has served Greater Kansas City, MO for more than 20 years. It provides compl...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2417601 / 946280

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Golden Rule Relocation Logo
Superb8.99/10
based on 318+ data points

About Golden Rule Relocation

Golden Rule Relocation is a premier residential and commercial moving and storage company based in Kansas City, Missouri, and serves the ent...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Interstate Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3420954 / 1105839

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Courtesy Movers LLC Logo
Superb8.98/10
based on 1,051+ data points

About Courtesy Movers LLC

Courtesy Movers LLC is a client-oriented, Kansas City-based company that provides quality moving services at an affordable price. Its priori...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap Moving Services
  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3241776 / 1018373

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (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.

Kansas City vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can be daunting, especially to an unknown city. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that helps you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by comparing local neighborhoods between Kansas City, KS & Chicago, IL . By identifying similar neighborhoods in your destination city, you can find the comfort of the familiar in an entirely new environment.

Kansas CityChicagoHow They're Similar
RosedaleLogan SquareVibrant art scene, craft breweries
Strawberry HillPilsenRich cultural heritage, mural art
ArmourdaleBridgeportDiverse community, working-class roots
MorningsideHyde ParkHistorical landmarks, educational institutions
PiperLincoln SquareFamily-friendly, community atmosphere
TurnerIrving ParkResidential, green spaces
Wyandotte County Lake ParkLincoln ParkExpansive parks, recreational activities
RiverviewGarfield ParkHistoric, conservatory, cultural programs
Bethel WelbornRoscoe VillageQuiet, community-focused
Stony PointBeverlyHistoric homes, family-oriented

Exploring neighborhoods in Chicago that resemble those in Kansas City can provide comfort and familiarity in your new locale. For instance, the vibrant art scene and bustling craft breweries in Logan Square will remind you of Rosedale, epitomizing how urban environments cultivate creativity and community. Meanwhile, the historical landmarks and esteemed educational institutions in Hyde Park offer a reflective glimpse similar to Morningside's character, showcasing how history and modernity blend seamlessly. Residents moving from Wyandotte County Lake Park in Kansas City will find solace in Lincoln Park's expansive greenery and variety of recreational activities, proving that city life can indeed coexist with nature’s tranquility. Venturing into these neighborhoods allows you to explore cultural gems such as the Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago, akin to the community and cultural programs found in Riverview, Kansas City, highlighting the unique yet familiar characteristics that make each neighborhood special.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Kansas City to Chicago

Making the move from Kansas City, KS to Chicago, IL? Our comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of both the benefits and drawbacks of this relocation. By contrasting the cons of Kansas City, KS with the pros of moving to Chicago, IL and vice versa, you can make a well-informed decision that best suits your lifestyle preferences.

CONs
PROs
Kansas City, KS iconKansas City, KS
  • Smaller job market
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Fewer cultural institutions
  • Limited public transit
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Larger job opportunities
  • World-class dining
  • Rich cultural attractions
  • Extensive public transit
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher cost of living
  • Smaller living spaces
  • More impersonal
  • Heavier traffic
Kansas City, KS iconKansas City, KS
  • Lower cost of living
  • Spacious living areas
  • Friendly community vibe
  • Less traffic congestion

Moving to Chicago opens a world of opportunities, from landing a job at one of the many Fortune 500 companies headquartered here to enjoying a tantalizing meal at award-winning restaurants like Alinea. Relocating brings the chance to explore iconic cultural institutions such as The Art Institute of Chicago, or to mingle in vibrant neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Square, known for their unique shops and cozy cafes. However, it's worth noting that this upgrade in lifestyle comes with a cost. Living spaces tend to be smaller, and while you'll have more public transit options, Chicago's bustling nature means navigating through more traffic. Despite these contrasts, each city offers unique perks that cater to different preferences and needs.

Kansas City vs. Chicago Food Guide

Relocating offers a chance to immerse yourself in a new cultural and culinary landscape. A critical aspect of this immersion is the local cuisine, which deeply reflects the community's identity and lifestyle. To help you adapt and savor the flavors of your new home, we've crafted a comparison of the local cuisine between Kansas City & Chicago . This guide offers insights into both cities' food scenes, enabling you to anticipate the culinary adventures that await you.

Kansas CityChicago
Most iconic local food itemBarbecue RibsDeep-Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishBrisketItalian Beef
Most popular street food itemBurnt EndsChicago-Style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit BBQDeep-Dish Vegan Pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
  • Q39
  • The Rieger
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Kansas City, renowned for its barbecue, establishments like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que are must-visits where the smell of smoked meats fills the air, particularly noted for their ribs and brisket. On the other hand, Chicago boasts an iconic culinary landmark — the deep-dish pizza, with Lou Malnati's Pizzeria at the forefront, offering a rich and hearty take on this beloved dish. The vegan scene is vibrant in both cities, offering options like Jackfruit BBQ in Kansas City and Deep-Dish Vegan Pizza in Chicago, showboating the cities' capability to innovate within their culinary traditions while accommodating modern dietary trends. Whether you're traversing the historic streets of Chicago's River North or the bustling avenues of Kansas City's Westport, you're bound to encounter a diverse food scene that caters to all palates and preferences.

Kansas City vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a place feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants from Kansas City, KS to Chicago, IL is designed to help you find your new go-to dining spots, using your favorites from Kansas City as a familiar guide.

Kansas CityChicagoWhat You'll Love
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-QueSmoque BBQSimilar dedication to smoked meats and a beloved local favorite
BluestemAlineaBoth offer an exquisite fine-dining experience with innovative dishes
La BodegaCafé Ba-Ba-Reeba!Authentic Spanish tapas and a lively atmosphere for friends and family
Port FondaBig StarA love for Mexican cuisine with a hip environment and quality ingredients
Q39Green Street Smoked MeatsBrisket that rivals any, in an industrial-chic setting
RyeGirl & The GoatFocus on American cuisine with a rustic, yet chic vibe
Town Topic HamburgersAu ChevalUpscale diner choices and legendary burgers in a cozy location
Jarocho Pescados y MariscosMarisolSeafood dishes that impress with creativity and fresh flavors
Novel RestaurantavecBoth have an innovative menu that changes with seasonal availability
GrunauerThe Berghoff RestaurantClassic, hearty German fare in an iconic, historic setting

Moving from Kansas City to Chicago offers a vibrant landscape for food enthusiasts eager to explore new tastes that feel familiar. Smoque BBQ and Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que share a love for perfectly smoked meats, with both locales being integral parts of their respective communities. For those craving the intimate and pioneering spirit of fine dining, Alinea provides an experience that echoes the creativity found at Bluestem. On casual nights when the simplicity of a well-crafted burger is all you desire, the journey from Town Topic Hamburgers to Au Cheval will be a rewarding one, showcasing why both have earned accolades for their burgers. Finally, Rye and Girl & The Goat both celebrate the richness of American cuisine with their unique touches and comforting ambiances, making the transition from Kansas City to Chicago a flavorful adventure.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Kansas City vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect when planning a move, allowing for a comprehensive comparison between two cities. This guide highlights the differences in housing characteristics, costs, and lifestyles between Kansas City and Chicago , helping you make an informed decision.

ComparisonKansas CityChicago
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, RanchModern, Victorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, Quiet neighborhoodsLake views, Access to public transit

While Kansas City offers more affordable housing options with median home prices and rent significantly lower than in Chicago, the latter boasts a more urban lifestyle with better scores in walkability, bikeability, and an eclectic mix of modern and Victorian architecture. Chicago's higher cost of living is matched by its vibrant urban environment, ample access to public transit, and picturesque lake views, making it a hub for those seeking a dynamic city life. Conversely, Kansas City's appeal lies in its spacious yards and tranquil neighborhoods, appealing to those looking for a balance between urban convenience and suburban charm. Whether you're drawn to the bustling streets of Chicago or the laid-back ambiance of Kansas City, both cities offer unique real estate opportunities tailored to varying preferences and lifestyles.

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.

Kansas City vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

When planning your move from Kansas City, KS to Chicago, IL, understanding how the weather varies is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust to your new environment by giving you an idea of what to expect in terms of temperature, humidity, and other weather-related factors.

Summer icon
89/68

Kansas City, KS

83/63

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
39/20

Kansas City, KS

32/18

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
42

Kansas City, KS

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
18

Kansas City, KS

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonKansas CityChicago
Air QualityModerateModerate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Natural DisastersTornadoes, Severe ThunderstormsSnowstorms, Cold Waves
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Kansas City to Chicago, you'll find Chicago a bit cooler, especially in winter, with more frequent and heavier snowfall. The number of sunny days per year also decreases, highlighting Chicago's cloudier disposition. However, both cities experience roughly the same level of humidity and share common top seasonal allergies such as pollen and mold. The difference in natural disasters is notable, with Kansas City being more prone to tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, whereas Chicago faces cold waves and snowstorms, affecting how you might prepare for emergencies.

Ready to start your move?

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

If you're moving from one location to another, comparing financial aspects is critical. Understanding the Kansas City, KS to Chicago, IL financial landscape will help prepare you for the change in cost of living, taxes, and income levels. This comparison aims to outline the key financial differences and similarities between two vibrant cities.

ComparisonKansas CityChicago
Avg. Household Income$53,884$66,576
Cost of Living Index97.8116.9
State Income Tax3.10 to 5.704.95 (flat rate)
Avg. Property Tax1.292.16
Avg. Sales Tax9.1310.25
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Health Care, Retail TradeFinance, Insurance, Manufacturing
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertySignificantSignificant
HomelessnessNotableNotable

Moving from Kansas City, KS to Chicago, IL brings notable financial changes, foremost among them being the cost of living. While your income may stretch further in Kansas City, Chicago's vibrant economy, nonetheless, offers vast opportunities in finance, insurance, and manufacturing sectors. Despite the higher cost of living and property taxes in Chicago, the city's affluence level is high, signaling a productive environment for career growth and business development. Additionally, both cities face significant challenges with poverty and homelessness, highlighting the importance of community support and social services in urban areas.

Kansas City vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

Welcome to our quick guide aimed at offering you a glimpse into the political and religious landscapes of Kansas City, KS, and Chicago, IL. This comparison is designed to provide a swift yet comprehensive overview of the differences and similarities in the political and religious makeup of Kansas City & Chicago , helping you understand the community you're moving into.

Kansas CityChicago
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsCommunity EngagementActive Local Governance
ReligionMixed; Christian majorityMixed; Christian majority with a larger diversity of faiths

In transitioning from Kansas City to Chicago, one of the key distinctions you'll notice is in the political ambiance. Chicago's political scene is not only more intensively Democratic but also highly vibrant, with an active local government that encourages involvement from its residents. On the religious front, while both cities have a Christian majority, Chicago offers a broader spectrum of religious communities, reflecting its larger and more diverse population. This blend of political engagement and religious diversity in Chicago could offer a rich, new social environment for you to be a part of.

Kansas City vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Kansas City, KS, to Chicago, IL, requires understanding the distinct differences in their daily commute and traffic scenarios. This comparison aims to highlight the key aspects of traffic and transportation options between Kansas City & Chicago to better prepare you for your move.

ComparisonKansas CityChicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2434
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

When considering your move from Kansas City to Chicago, understanding the difference in commute times and traffic congestion is crucial. With Kansas City's average commute time being significantly shorter and less traffic congestion compared to Chicago, adapting to a more congested city might require some patience. However, Chicago's excellent public transit score highlights a robust system, including buses and the famous 'L' trains, which makes navigating the city without a car not only possible but often preferable. This is a stark contrast to Kansas City, where having a car is almost essential for getting around efficiently due to the limited public transit options.

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

Popular Kansas City, KS to Illinois Moving Routes