Best Louisville to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Louisville to Chicago Movers

Moving from Louisville, the Gateway to the South, to Chicago, the Windy City, signifies more than a change in address—it’s an exhilarating leap into a new chapter of life. You’re trading in the Kentucky Derby for Lake Michigan shores, bourbon for deep-dish pizza, in a quest for fresh beginnings and urban explorations. Understanding that this transition is as momentous as it is complex, we emphasize the need for engaging trusted and dependable professional movers, ensuring your journey is as smooth as the transition from Southern charm to Northern vibrancy itself.

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Best Louisville to Chicago Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
UNITS of Kentucky8.94NRActiveContact
Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving8.76A+Authorized For HHGContact
Kentuckiana Moving, LLC8.64A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Louisville guide.

5 Best Louisville 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 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
UNITS of Kentucky Logo
Superb8.94/10
based on 186+ data points

About UNITS of Kentucky

UNITS of Kentucky is a locally-owned and operated moving and portable storage company founded in 2004. The company offers convenient moving ...Read More >>

Services

  • Storage
  • Moving
  • Moving & Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 2/24/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

439414 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving Logo
Superb8.76/10
based on 1,707+ data points

About Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving

Your one-stop-shop moving company in Louisville, Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving serves local Kentucky and Southern Indiana residents and ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1834511 / 1460292

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Kentuckiana Moving, LLC Logo
Fabulous
claimed company icon
8.64/10
based on 4,220+ data points

About Kentuckiana Moving, LLC

With headquarters in New Albany, Kentuckiana Moving serves customers in Louisville and across Southern Indiana. Offering short and long-dist...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Local Home Movers

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 3/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2933318 / 1080511

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2018)
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.

Louisville vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can be overwhelming, especially to a city unfamiliar to you. This guide aims to ease that transition by comparing Louisville, KY & Chicago, IL neighborhoods , helping to find a new area that feels like home. We've matched top Louisville neighborhoods with their Chicago counterparts based on vibe, amenities, and community feel.

LouisvilleChicagoHow They're Similar
The HighlandsWicker Parkvibrant, artistic community
Nulu (East Market District)West Looptrendy restaurants and boutiques
Old LouisvilleGold Coasthistoric homes, leafy streets
Crescent HillLakeviewfamily-friendly, diverse restaurants
CliftonAndersonvilleunique shops, progressive vibe
GermantownLogan Squareblend of old and new, craft beer scene
St. MatthewsLincoln Parkupscale, with large malls and parks
ButchertownFulton Markethistoric industrial roots, dining
MiddletownRoscoe Villagequiet, family-friendly atmosphere
AnchorageRavenswoodsuburban feel, spacious homes

Exploring neighborhoods like Wicker Park and West Loop in Chicago can remind Louisville transplants of the vibrant arts scene and trendy eateries they loved in The Highlands and Nulu. Wicker Park, known for its bustling nightlife and innovative art galleries such as The Flat Iron Arts Building, mirrors The Highlands' eclectic ambiance. Meanwhile, the West Loop's acclaimed restaurant row, with standouts like Girl & the Goat, offers a taste of Nulu's dynamic food scene. Gold Coast and Old Louisville share strikingly similar architectural wonders, providing a backdrop of historic homes and manicured parks perfect for leisurely strolls. In essence, moving from Louisville to Chicago doesn't have to mean leaving the comforts of home behind; it's about discovering a new city through the familiar lens of your old neighborhood.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Louisville to Chicago

Moving from one city to another brings a mix of emotions and practical considerations. This guide aims to give you a balanced view of relocating from Louisville, KY to Chicago, IL, helping you weigh the advantages against the challenges. By examining the pros and cons, we hope to offer an honest reflection of what this transition entails.

CONs
PROs
Louisville, KY iconLouisville, KY
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Lower cost of living
  • More personal space
  • Less traffic congestion
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Larger city feel
  • More job opportunities
  • Higher cost of living
  • Denser population
  • More public transit options
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Loss of intimacy
  • Expensive living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Anonymity in crowds
  • More pollution
Louisville, KY iconLouisville, KY
  • Smaller city charm
  • Lower living costs
  • Easy traffic
  • Close-knit community
  • Less pollution

Although moving from Louisville to Chicago means adapting to a busier lifestyle and higher living expenses, it also opens up a plethora of new opportunities. Chicago's vibrant job market, especially in industries like finance, technology, and healthcare, presents a significant advantage for career growth. The city’s rich cultural scene, from the iconic Millennium Park to the historic neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, offers residents an array of activities. With world-renowned restaurants like Alinea and cultural institutions such as the Art Institute of Chicago, life in Chicago is never dull. Moreover, the extensive public transit system, including the 'L' train, makes commuting more manageable despite the traffic. Whether you’re exploring the vast green spaces of Grant Park or enjoying the lively atmosphere of Navy Pier, Chicago offers a dynamic urban living experience that’s hard to match.

Louisville vs. Chicago Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Louisville & Chicago to help you understand the importance of food culture in your new city. Knowing the local food scene is vital for immersing yourself fully into life there.

LouisvilleChicago
Most iconic local food itemHot BrownDeep-Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishBourbon-glazed PorkItalian Beef
Most popular street food itemBeer CheeseHot Dog
Most popular vegan foodVegan BBQSeitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • 610 Magnolia
  • Jack Fry's
  • The Brown Hotel
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Moving from Louisville to Chicago, you'll transition from the comfort of Kentucky's bourbon-infused cuisine to the bustling, diverse flavors of one of the world's renowned food capitals. In Louisville, you might have delighted in a Hot Brown from The Brown Hotel for brunch, but in Chicago, the deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati's Pizzeria will become a staple. The Windy City's vibrant neighborhoods, like West Loop and Logan Square, feature some of the most innovative and acclaimed restaurants in the country, such as Alinea. The foodie scene there is a dynamic blend of high-end dining, international cuisines, and incredible street food, like the iconic Chicago hot dog, ensuring your taste buds will never grow weary.

Louisville vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

Making an area feel like home often boils down to finding the right places to eat. This restaurant comparison chart aims to ease the transition for those moving, comparing top restaurants in Louisville to their equivalents in Chicago . Whether you're seeking a high-end dining experience or a casual bite, this guide will help you discover your new favorite spots, using your beloved Louisville eateries as a benchmark.

LouisvilleChicagoWhat You'll Love
610 MagnoliaAlineaBoth offer a unique, high-end dining experience with pre-fixed menus.
Jack Fry'sGibsons Bar & SteakhouseIconic spots for steak lovers with a rich history.
Mayan CafeFrontera GrillBoth focus on ethnic cuisines with a commitment to quality ingredients.
Grind Burger KitchenAu ChevalFamed for their burgers, both spots offer a casual yet unforgettable meal.
Proof on MainThe Purple PigUnique, innovative dishes in a chic, artsy environment.
SevicheCarnivaleVibrant atmospheres serving up Latin-inspired dishes.
Doc Crow'sSmoque BBQBoth are known for their hearty portions of smoked meats and Southern sides.
Butchertown GroceryGirl & The GoatBoth offer eclectic menus crafted by renowned chefs, ideal for foodies.
MilkWoodPublicanFocusing on pork and beer, both restaurants provide a unique dining experience.
Feast BBQGreen Street Smoked MeatsFor those who crave BBQ, these places serve up some of the best smoked dishes.

When you move from Louisville to Chicago, you'll find that your culinary adventures can continue seamlessly. For instance, Alinea in Chicago offers an unparalleled dining experience reminiscent of 610 Magnolia's intimate and creative atmosphere, making it a perfect high-end dining destination for those special occasions. If you're in search of a more laid-back environment with equally impressive fare, the transition from Grind Burger Kitchen to Au Cheval will surely satisfy your burger cravings. Both establishments are recognized for their high-quality ingredients and innovative approaches to the classic American burger. Whether exploring the eclectic menus of Butchertown Grocery and Girl & The Goat or savoring the smoked delights at Smoque BBQ and Doc Crow's, your palate can easily transition from the flavors of Louisville to the vibrant taste scene of Chicago.

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Ready to start your move?

Louisville vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is an essential factor to consider when planning your move. Understanding how the housing options compare between Louisville and Chicago is vital to making an informed decision. This comparison will help you gauge the cost, architecture, and lifestyle of these two cities.

ComparisonLouisvilleChicago
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, Cape CodModern, Greystone
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge yards, GaragesNearby public transit, High-rise views

When comparing Louisville and Chicago, you'll notice a tangible difference in living styles and costs. In Chicago, high-rise views and access to public transit are highly valued, reflecting the city's denser urban lifestyle and higher walkability and bikeability scores. On the other hand, Louisville’s real estate market emphasizes properties with large yards and garages, catering to those looking for a more suburban feel. The median home price and rent in Chicago are significantly higher than in Louisville, indicating a more expensive cost of living. However, Chicago's modern and greystone architecture, coupled with its vibrant urban lifestyle, presents a distinct living experience compared to Louisville's colonial and cape cod style homes.

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.

Louisville vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Louisville, KY to Chicago, IL, understanding how the weather contrasts can help you adjust more comfortably to your new surroundings. Comparing climate conditions offers insight into what clothing, activities, and home preparations might be necessary for your relocation.

Summer icon
88°F / 67°F

Louisville, KY

85°F / 63°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
43°F / 28°F

Louisville, KY

32°F / 18°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
44"

Louisville, KY

38"

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
12"

Louisville, KY

36"

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonLouisvilleChicago
Air QualityModerateModerate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Natural DisastersFloods, TornadoesSnowstorms, Cold waves
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Louisville to Chicago, you'll find both cities experience four distinct seasons, but Chicago's winters are significantly colder, with average lows dipping to 18°F and annual snowfall reaching three times that of Louisville. This prompts a need for warmer clothing and possibly different transportation considerations during the snowy months. Although both cities enjoy around the same number of sunny days, Chicago's higher humidity in summer and colder winter temperatures might require adapting your outdoor activities and home heating or cooling strategies. Additionally, while both cities have moderate air quality, Chicago faces periods where the air quality can become unhealthy for sensitive groups, suggesting you may want to monitor local air quality reports more closely after your move.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one area to another, comparing the financial landscape is crucial. This comparison will help you understand the differences in cost of living, taxation, and income between Louisville and Chicago , offering a clearer picture of what to expect in your new city.

ComparisonLouisvilleChicago
Avg. Household Income$57,182$66,576
Cost of Living Index87.7116.9
State Income Tax54.95
Avg. Property Tax0.832.10
Avg. Sales Tax610.25
Top 3 IndustriesLogistics, Manufacturing, HealthcareFinance, Technology, Healthcare
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateHigh
HomelessnessModerateHigh

While Louisville presents a more affordable cost of living indexed at 90 out of 100, moving to Chicago means preparing for a higher cost of living, indexed at 106. This increase is evident in the average household income, which is significantly higher in Chicago at $68,000 compared to Louisville's $59,000. Moreover, Chicago's notably higher property and sales taxes reflect the city's economic climate. However, Chicago's vibrant economy is powered by leading industries such as Finance, Technology, and Healthcare, offering a range of employment opportunities that could justify the higher cost of living for many. Understanding these financial nuances will guide your budgeting and lifestyle choices in your new city.

Louisville vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

In taking a step from Louisville, KY to Chicago, IL, it's insightful to glance at the comparison of the politics between Louisville & Chicago , alongside the religious landscape of where you're leaving and where you're heading. This quick overview aims to provide a snapshot of the political leanings and religious makeup of both cities, offering a peek into the community you'll be joining or leaving behind.

LouisvilleChicago
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsMixed urban-suburban dynamicsFocused urban governance
ReligionDiverse, with a significant Christian majorityDiverse, but more secular-leaning

When moving from Louisville to Chicago, you'll transition from a city that leans Democratic to one that is a stronghold for Democratic politics. This political landscape influences local governance styles; Louisville's mixed urban-suburban dynamic contrasts with Chicago's focused urban governance, shaping the implementation of policies and city development. Religion in Louisville is varied, with a strong Christian presence, while Chicago's religious scene is also diverse but tends towards a more secular viewpoint. This brief insight into the political and religious frameworks of both cities can help you gauge the cultural shift you might experience.

Louisville vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

In this comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Louisville & Chicago, we aim to offer insight into what your daily commute might look like and how the general transportation landscape differs between these two cities. This guide will help you better understand the nuances of driving and transiting, making your transition smoother.

ComparisonLouisvilleChicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2334
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without a car?DifficultEasier

Moving from Louisville to Chicago, you'll discover profound differences in both cities' transportation realities. Louisville presents a less congested backdrop with an average commute time of approximately 23 minutes, making car travel relatively smoother. However, public transportation options are limited, making it challenging to get by without a car. On the other hand, Chicago's robust public transit system, scored significantly higher in availability, enables a more feasible life without personal vehicle dependency, despite its higher traffic congestion level. This shift opens up a plethora of opportunities to explore the city's rich neighborhoods and iconic locations easily via transit routes.

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