Moving from St. Paul to Chicago?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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St. Paul to Chicago Movers

Moving from the cozy, historical streets of St. Paul to the bustling, skyscraper-lined avenues of Chicago marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new possibilities and adventures. You're transitioning from the land of "Saintly City" charm to "The Windy City's" vibrant culture and endless opportunities. Given the significant distance and life change, it's crucial to ensure your belongings are in good hands; that's why we emphasize the importance of hiring trusted and reliable professional movers, utilizing our unbiased ranking algorithm at Great Guys Moving to find the best fit for your journey.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to St. Paul guide.

5 Best St. Paul to Chicago Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
Metro Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,008+ data points

Hopkins, MN
Residential Moving, Business Moving, Long Distance Residential Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 3742268 Verify

About Metro Movers

Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared vision...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in fertile 2023 metro movers image
#2
6
Exceptional

based on 1,152+ data points

Chicago, IL
Residential Movers, Commercial Movers, Packing & Unpacking Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 3476069 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in kankakee 2023 606 movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in park forest 2022 606 movers inc image
#3
Move-tastic! Logo
Exceptional

based on 10,649+ data points

Chicago, IL
Full Moves, Truck Loading and Unloading, Interstate Moving Assistance See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1906350 Verify

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 >>

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top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top 3 ranked movers in chicago 2023 move tastic image
#4
General Expert Moving Service LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 528+ data points

Minneapolis, MN
Cheap moving, Local moving, Long-distance moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2846187 Verify

About General Expert Moving Service LLC

General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup truck back ...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in blaine 2023 general expert moving service llc image
top 10 ranked movers in bloomington 2022 general expert moving service llc image
#5
Goal Line Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 664+ data points

Plymouth, MN
Local Moving, Commercial Moving, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2926126 Verify

About Goal Line Moving

Located in Ham Lake, MN, Goal Line Moving is a family-owned and operated company with four years in the business and over 3,000 local moves....Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in st paul 2023 goal line moving image
top 10 ranked movers in st paul 2022 goal line moving image

Relocating from St. Paul to Chicago Neighborhood Guide

Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we've prepared a comparison to help familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your knowledge of St. Paul, MN & Chicago, IL neighborhoods. This guide aims to match neighborhoods from St. Paul with their most similar counterparts in Chicago, focusing on their vibe, community, and what they offer.

St. PaulChicago
LowertownFulton Market

Industrial chic, artsy vibe

Summit HillGold Coast

Historic, affluent area

Merriam ParkLincoln Park

Family-friendly, great parks

Highland ParkRoscoe Village

Quiet, residential, good schools

Cathedral HillOld Town

Charming, historic, great eateries

Macalester-GrovelandHyde Park

Academic vibe, cultural institutions

West SeventhWicker Park

Trendy, nightlife, craft eateries

Saint Anthony ParkAndersonville

Quaint, diverse, strong community

Como ParkGarfield Park

Green spaces, conservatory

Dayton's BluffLogan Square

Historic homes, burgeoning arts scene

For those moving from Highland Park in St. Paul to Chicago, Roscoe Village presents a similarly quiet, residential ambience perfect for families, featuring highly-rated schools like Audubon Elementary. If you're a fan of the vibrant arts scene and industrial-chic aesthetic of Lowertown, Fulton Market in Chicago offers an artsy vibe with thriving galleries like the Mars Gallery and top-tier restaurants such as Girl & The Goat. Merriam Park and Lincoln Park share a love for expansive green spaces, with Lincoln Park boasting the renowned Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory, offering a slice of nature within the bustling city. For those leaving the historic charm of Cathedral Hill, Old Town's storied streets, featuring eateries like Twin Anchors, will make you feel right at home amidst Chicago's urban landscape.

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Things to Do in Chicago

  • Explore the Art Institute of Chicago
  • Watch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field
  • Visit Shedd Aquarium
  • Enjoy Millennium Park concerts
  • Take the Chicago Architecture River Cruise
  • Discover the Field Museum

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from St. Paul to Chicago

Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that requires understanding both the good and the bad. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of relocating from St. Paul, MN to Chicago, IL, giving you a balanced view. By weighing the pros against the cons, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and priorities.

CONs
PROs
St. Paul, MN iconSt. Paul, MN
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Colder winters
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Less public transit
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Larger, vibrant city
  • World-class dining
  • Slightly warmer winters
  • More career options
  • Extensive public transit
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • More anonymous living
  • Fewer parks per capita
  • Higher cost of living
  • Heavier traffic
  • Noisier urban environment
St. Paul, MN iconSt. Paul, MN
  • Close-knit communities
  • Abundant green spaces
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Quieter neighborhoods

Moving to Chicago from St. Paul offers an exciting shift towards a bigger city lifestyle with more varied experiences. In Chicago, you’ll find an impressive dining scene, including award-winning restaurants like Alinea and vibrant food markets such as Time Out Market. While St. Paul prides itself on its community feel and green spaces, like the scenic Como Park, Chicago counters with iconic parks such as Millennium Park and Grant Park, offering vast areas for recreation amidst the urban landscape. The transition might bring about a higher cost of living and busier streets, but it also opens doors to richer career opportunities and an expansive public transit system that connects you to every corner of this dynamic city.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from St. Paul to Chicago

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between St. Paul & Chicago, and food is a vital aspect of local culture and living experience. Understanding the culinary scene of your new city can greatly enhance your relocation experience.

St. PaulChicago

Most iconic local food item

Juicy LucyDeep Dish Pizza

Most popular meat dish

WalleyeItalian Beef

Most popular street food item

Food Truck TacosChicago-style Hot Dog

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit TacosSeitan Wings

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • The St. Paul Grill
  • Cossetta's
  • Mickey's Diner
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • The Purple Pig
  • Alinea

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

67

Foodie Scene

89

Vegan Friendly

78

When moving from St. Paul to Chicago, you'll find yourself transitioning from the homely Juicy Lucy and the locally sourced Walleye to the iconic Deep Dish Pizza and flavorful Italian Beef. Chicago's food scene is highly diverse, with neighborhoods like West Loop and Wicker Park offering an array of dining options. Iconic establishments such as Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, known for its deep dish pizza, and the innovative Alinea, for a unique dining experience, are just the tip of the culinary iceberg. Chicago also boasts a higher vegan-friendliness and a robust foodie scene, making it a haven for all food lovers.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from St. Paul to Chicago

Discovering your next favorite meal is essential to feeling at home in a new city. This comparison between St. Paul and Chicago restaurants is designed to help you find culinary delights that resonate with your tastes, making the transition smoother. Whether you're craving high-end dining or a casual bite, this guide bridges the gap between your old favorites and your soon-to-be new ones in these vibrant cities.

Mucci's ItalianSapori Trattoria

Cozy Italian vibe with handcrafted pasta dishes

MeritageAvec

French-inspired cuisine with a modern twist

The LexingtonGirl & The Goat

Elevated American fare in a stylish setting

Cossetta'sEataly

Vibrant Italian market with diverse food stations

HeartlandFarmhouse

Farm-to-table dining emphasizing local ingredients

Brasa Premium RotisserieHoney Butter Fried Chicken

Casual spot for high-quality poultry dishes

J. Selby'sKale My Name

Popular vegan comfort food with an eclectic menu

Matt's BarAu Cheval

Renowned for gourmet burgers and a hip ambiance

The Happy GnomeHopleaf

Known for its extensive beer selection and upscale pub grub

Tongue in CheekBad Hunter

Focus on vegetable-forward dishes in a trendy space

Moving from St. Paul to Chicago doesn't mean leaving behind the flavors you love; it means rediscovering them in new settings. For instance, Mucci's Italian in St. Paul, with its homely vibe and unforgettable pasta, finds a match in Chicago's Sapori Trattoria, where the warmth and authenticity of Italian cooking are at the forefront. Similarly, if you've enjoyed the farm-to-table approach at Heartland, you'll feel right at home at Farmhouse in Chicago, where local, sustainable agriculture shapes the dining experience. This guide isn't just about finding a place to eat; it's about continuing the culinary journey that reflects your tastes and supports your exploration of Chicago's diverse food scene.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from St. Paul to Chicago

Real estate is a crucial aspect when planning a move, and understanding how St. Paul and Chicago compare in terms of housing can greatly simplify your decision-making process. This comparison will shed light on various factors including cost, architecture, and overall lifestyle.

Moving from St. Paul to Chicago, you'll notice differences in housing costs and the prevailing architectural styles that characterize each city. Chicago's median home price and rent are slightly higher, reflecting its larger urban environment and the premium on lake views and access to an extensive public transportation system. The city's higher walkability score also highlights Chicago's dense and compact urban layout, making it easier to explore on foot. Each city offers unique living experiences, with St. Paul featuring spacious yards and a close-knit community vibe, while Chicago presents a bustling urban lifestyle with its iconic architecture and more developed infrastructure for pedestrians and bikers alike.

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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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from St. Paul to Chicago

Understanding how the weather varies between your current location and where you're moving is crucial. This comparison gives insight into how St. Paul's climate differs from Chicago's weather , helping you adjust more smoothly to your new surroundings.

Summer icon
83/63

St. Paul, MN

85/68

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
23/7

St. Paul, MN

32/18

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
32

St. Paul, MN

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
52

St. Paul, MN

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both St. Paul and Chicago experience the full range of seasons, Chicago's winters are milder compared to the often harsh conditions in St. Paul. Chicago's annual snowfall is notably less, making winters a bit easier to manage. However, both cities enjoy a similar amount of sunshine and comparable humidity levels, ensuring that your adjustment to summer weather should be relatively smooth. Air quality differences could influence well-being, with St. Paul generally offering cleaner air. Similarly, both cities face seasonal allergies, primarily from pollen and mold, warranting similar preparations if you're prone to such reactions.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from St. Paul to Chicago

Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your wallet. It's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and key financial indicators in your new city compare to what you're accustomed to. This guide contrasts St. Paul, MN , and Chicago, IL , focusing on essential monetary aspects to help you plan your move effectively.

When moving from St. Paul to Chicago, you'll find yourself in a city with a higher average household income but also with a higher cost of living. While the state income tax is more favorable in Chicago, property and sales taxes are considerably higher, which could impact your overall expenses. Chicago's larger economy is reflected in its varied top industries, including finance and IT, offering potentially more diverse job opportunities. However, it's also characterized by higher degrees of poverty and homelessness, aspects that underscore the city’s economic disparities. Understanding these financial implications is vital to smoothly transition to life in Chicago.

Political & Religious Comparison between St. Paul, MN and Chicago, IL

Welcome to a quick, at-a-glance snapshot aimed at providing insights into the political and religious makeup of the cities you're transitioning between. This comparison will illuminate the politics between St. Paul & Chicago along with the predominant religious affiliations within each city, preparing you for the cultural landscape that awaits.

St. PaulChicago

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic

Local Politics

Democratic LeadershipDemocratic Leadership

Religion

Mix of Protestant and CatholicSaint Paul Area Council of ChurchesMix of Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, MuslimArchdiocese of Chicago

While both cities skew liberal/Democratic in their political makeup and leadership, the religious landscape offers a tapestry of diversity that reflects the cosmopolitan nature of each city. St. Paul presents a vibrant mix of Protestant and Catholic beliefs, with many organizations like the Saint Paul Area Council of Churches promoting interfaith dialogue and community service. Chicago broadens this religious palette by including significant Jewish and Muslim communities alongside its Christian majority, anchored by institutions like the Archdiocese of Chicago. This diversity enriches the cultural fabric of Chicago, providing a broad range of religious and spiritual spaces for newcomers to explore.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from St. Paul to Chicago

Moving between cities like St. Paul, MN, and Chicago, IL, involves not just a change of scenery but also a significant shift in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between St. Paul & Chicago is here to help you better understand what your day-to-day might look like as you transition from one urban landscape to another.

St. PaulChicago
2535

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

68

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

79

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible, but challengingYes, easier

Can you get by without car?

In detail, while St. Paul offers a moderately convenient public transit system, Chicago's comprehensive network including the CTA, Metra, and buses, scored higher, making it significantly easier to get around without a car. The average commute time in Chicago is notably longer than in St. Paul, largely due to its heightened traffic congestion. However, this is mitigated by the city's efficient public transportation. Living in Chicago, you might find yourself less reliant on a car than in St. Paul, which could be a substantial change depending on your current lifestyle and preferences.

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