Best Boston to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
Get a Quote Now!
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
Moving from the historic cobblestones of Boston, MA, to the bustling streets of Chicago, IL, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new possibilities and adventures. Leaving behind Beantown's revolutionary roots and clam chowder for the Windy City's towering skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza, you embark on a journey of discovery and transformation. To ensure this long-distance move is as smooth as possible, it's crucial to hire trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we take the guesswork out by ranking the best movers using an unbiased algorithm, helping you to secure the highest quality service for your journey.
Best Boston to Chicago Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Centaur Moving | 9.60 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Intelligent labor & Moving | 9.51 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Move-tastic! | 9.35 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Boston guide.
5 Best Boston to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and com...Read More >>
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
This listing has been claimed by Centaur MovingAbout Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide mov...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
About Intelligent labor & Moving
Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communi...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance and interstate moving services
- Cheap moving rates with two or three movers
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
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
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.
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.
Boston vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving cities can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with your new home's neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've compared popular neighborhoods in Boston, MA & Chicago, IL , creating a guide to help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home, by using what you already love about your current city as a baseline.
| Boston | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Back Bay | Gold Coast | Historic, luxurious |
| Beacon Hill | Old Town | Charming, historic architecture |
| South End | Wicker Park | Vibrant, artsy community |
| Fenway | Wrigleyville | Sports-centric, lively nightlife |
| Seaport District | Lakeview | Waterfront views, modern amenities |
| North End | Little Italy | Rich cultural heritage, dining |
| Jamaica Plain | Logan Square | Diverse, community-oriented |
| Charlestown | Lincoln Park | Scenic views, family-friendly |
| Dorchester | Pilsen | Multicultural, artistic vibe |
| Roslindale | Ravenswood | Quiet, residential charm |
Imagine walking through the charismatic streets of Beacon Hill in Boston, with its historic red-brick buildings and cobblestone paths, and finding a similar charm in Chicago's Old Town, where the past feels alive among modern conveniences. For those who thrive in the dynamic, artsy atmosphere of Boston's South End, Chicago's Wicker Park offers a familiar blend of cutting-edge galleries, trendy boutiques, and inviting cafes, like The Wormhole Coffee. If your weekends in Boston are spent cheering for the Red Sox at Fenway Park, you'll feel right at home in Wrigleyville, where the spirit of baseball is palpable at the historic Wrigley Field. Whether you're savoring authentic Italian dishes in Boston's North End or exploring the dining scene in Chicago's Little Italy, each city offers neighborhoods that cater to every taste and lifestyle, making your transition as smooth as possible.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Chicago
Moving from one city to another is a significant life change that requires careful consideration of all factors involved. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Boston, MA to Chicago, IL , helping you make an informed decision. By examining the pros and cons side by side, you can better understand how your lifestyle, preferences, and priorities align with what each city has to offer.
Boston, MA- Higher living costs
- Harsher winters
- Compact city layout
- Less diverse food scene
Chicago, IL- More affordable housing
- Milder winters
- Spacious city layout
- More diverse food scene
Chicago, IL- Fewer historical sites
- Less seafood variety
- Less extensive transit
- Further from Europe
Boston, MA- Rich historical sites
- Excellent seafood
- Extensive public transit
- Closer to Europe
Relocating from Boston to Chicago means adapting to new weather patterns, different culinary offerings, and a change in living expenses. For instance, while Boston's seafood is unparalleled, Chicago's culinary scene is incredibly diverse, boasting everything from deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's to authentic Mexican cuisine in neighborhoods like Pilsen. On the leisure front, you might miss the quaintness of Boston's historical Freedom Trail, but Chicago offers an array of parks and museums, such as Millennium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago, that are equally enriching. Housing in Chicago tends to be more affordable, allowing for more spacious living conditions compared to the often cramped spaces in Boston. Overall, moving to Chicago from Boston brings a mix of trade-offs and new opportunities that can significantly enhance your lifestyle.
Boston vs. Chicago Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Boston & Chicago delves into the rich food scenes of both cities. As food is a pivotal part of one's local culture and daily life, understanding the culinary landscape of your new city can provide a taste of what living there may be like.
| Boston | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Clam Chowder | Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Lobster Roll | Italian Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Clams | Chicago-Style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit Sandwich | Vegan Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you arrive in Chicago, you'll quickly notice the city's deep love affair with its iconic deep-dish pizza, a culinary masterpiece that can be found in renowned spots like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria. The Italian Beef Sandwich, another must-try, is best enjoyed at places like Portillo's, ensconced in the city's rich tradition of meats. Chicago's food scene is not bound to meats alone; the city has embraced vegan options, like the Vegan Deep-Dish Pizza which is beginning to gain traction. The food truck scene, particularly vibrant in neighborhoods such as Lincoln Park and the Loop, offers an array of street foods, with the Chicago-Style Hot Dog standing out as a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Boston vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in making a new city feel like home, offering comfort through its flavors and settings. This restaurant comparison is designed to help you find your next favorite eatery by drawing parallels between Boston and Chicago's top restaurants , using your familiar favorites as a guiding benchmark.
| Boston | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Ostra | Aba | Mediterranean flair, with a similar focus on seafood and ambiance |
| Neptune Oyster | GT Fish & Oyster | Both are famed for exquisite seafood and oyster selections |
| Mike's City Diner | Lou Mitchell's | Classic diner food, with a touch of nostalgic diner vibes |
| Uni | Momotaro | Japanese cuisine with a contemporary twist, equally innovative |
| Santarpio's Pizza | Pequod's Pizza | Both are iconic to their city for thick, hearty pizza pies |
| Craigie On Main | Girl & The Goat | Innovative dishes in a buzzy, casual setting |
| Tatte Bakery & Cafe | Floriole Cafe & Bakery | Both offer high-quality coffee, pastries, and a cozy atmosphere |
| The Daily Catch | Joe's Seafood | Both specialize in seafood with an emphasis on quality and simplicity |
| Toro | Carnivale | Lively atmosphere with a menu that excites with bold flavors |
| Mistral | North Pond | Similar in their upscale approach to dining and exquisite menus |
When delving deeper into the restaurant scenes of Boston and Chicago, it's fascinating to see how both cities uphold a standard of excellence and innovation in their culinary offerings. For instance, Neptune Oyster in Boston is renowned for its fresh seafood and oysters, a sentiment equally shared by Chicago's GT Fish & Oyster, making both places must-visit spots for seafood lovers. On the other hand, the vibrant and eclectic nature of Toro in Boston finds a parallel in Chicago's Carnivale, where the lively atmosphere and bold flavors create an unforgettable dining experience. This similarity in quality and ambiance between restaurants in Boston and Chicago eases the transition for newcomers, ensuring you find a new favorite spot that resonates with your culinary preferences.
Ready to start your move?
Boston vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is crucial when considering a move. Understanding how Boston, MA, and Chicago, IL, compare in terms of housing will help you make an informed decision. Here, we look closely at aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle to guide your journey.
| Comparison | Boston | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Federal | Prairie, Chicago School |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to universities, Historic details | Lake views, Access to public transit |
When comparing these two vibrant cities, it's evident that Boston is generally more expensive, both in terms of median home price and rent. However, it's also considered slightly more walkable and offers a denser urban experience, characterized by its rich history and proximity to prestigious universities. Chicago, on the other hand, provides a more affordable living situation without significantly compromising on the quality of urban life. Its real estate market highlights unique architectural styles like the Prairie and Chicago School, and listings often boast about lake views and excellent public transit connections, making it an attractive option for a variety of lifestyles.
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.
Boston vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the local weather conditions is crucial. This comparison between Boston, MA and Chicago, IL weather is designed to give you a clear view of what to expect. Knowing how the weather differs can help you prepare better for your relocation.
Boston, MA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Boston, MA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Boston | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Nor'easters, blizzards | Snowstorms, occasional tornados |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Boston and Chicago share similarly harsh winter conditions, with Chicago often experiencing slightly cooler temperatures, one notable difference is their summer weather. Chicago's summers tend to be warmer and more humid, making the city feel considerably different during July and August. Additionally, the overall air quality in Chicago is generally rated as moderate, which can sometimes present challenges for individuals with respiratory conditions, compared to Boston's generally good air quality. Understanding these nuances is key to smoothly transitioning between these two vibrant cities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Chicago
Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your finances. Understanding how the cost of living, income, and taxes in Boston compare to those in Chicago is crucial for your wallet. This comparison will help you set realistic financial expectations as you transition between these two vibrant cities.
| Comparison | Boston | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,283 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.5 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.2 | 2.1 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.25 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Finance | Manufacturing, Retail, Technology |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
When considering a move from Boston to Chicago, it's important to note that while the average household income may be lower in Chicago, the overall cost of living is significantly less as well, according to the Cost of Living Index. This difference could potentially balance out the income disparity. However, the higher average sales tax in Chicago could impact your day-to-day expenses, especially on large purchases. The industries dominating each city mirror their unique economic landscapes, suggesting potential career opportunities or shifts. Also, despite both cities having a moderate poverty rate, Chicago faces a more significant challenge with homelessness, an essential factor to consider when assessing the social environment of your potential new home.
Boston vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
This short guide provides a quick overview of the comparison of the politics between Boston & Chicago . Get a glimpse into the political and religious makeup of the two cities you're moving between, ensuring a smoother transition.
| Boston | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Strong mayoral system with city council | Strong mayoral system, noted for its machine politics |
| Religion | Large Catholic population, diverse faith communities | Religious diversity with significant Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, and Muslim communities |
Both Boston and Chicago share a liberal political stance, though the flavor of their politics might differ – Boston is known for its impactful city council alongside a strong mayoral system, reflecting a comprehensive governance approach. In Chicago, while sharing the strong mayoral system, the city is often noted for its historical machine politics. Religion in both cities reflects diversity, yet with a significant presence of Catholic populations. Chicago, however, touts a broader spectrum of faith communities, including Protestant, Jewish, and Muslim communities, mirroring its diverse social fabric. This comparison underlines not just the similarities, but also the distinctive elements that shape the local culture and community vibe of your new city.
Boston vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide aims to shed light on the comparison of traffic and transportation options between Boston & Chicago, to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like as you plan your move.
| Comparison | Boston | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Yes |
Both Boston and Chicago offer robust public transit systems, making it feasible to get around without a car. Boston’s MBTA system, known as the "T", provides extensive subway, bus, and even ferry services that are highly rated for their availability. Similarly, Chicago's CTA offers a widespread network of buses and trains, including the famous "L" train system. Despite this, the average commute time in Chicago is slightly longer, potentially due to the city's larger geographic spread compared to Boston. Understanding these differences can help you plan your daily commute more effectively after your move.
Popular Moving Routes
Nearby Moving Routes
