Best Kansas City to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide

Get a Quote Now!

Kansas City to Chicago Movers

Moving from the BBQ Capital, Kansas City, MO to the Windy City, Chicago, IL, marks an exhilarating chapter in your life, offering new adventures at every corner. You're leaving behind the sprawling plains for a skyline that stitches the clouds, trading in slow-smoked meats for deep-dish pizza. Recognizing the importance of this long-distance move, it's crucial to entrust your journey to professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we ensure you're matched with the most reliable and trusted movers, thanks to our unbiased ranking algorithm, making your transition as smooth as possible.

Missouri 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

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the neighborhood dynamics. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of local neighborhoods between Kansas City, MO & Chicago, IL , using your current city as a baseline. Discover which neighborhoods in Chicago mirror the vibe, community, and lifestyle of your favorite spots in Kansas City.

Kansas CityChicagoHow They're Similar
BrooksideRavenswoodFamily-friendly, vibrant local scene
Country Club PlazaGold CoastUpscale shopping, historic architecture
WestportWicker ParkHip, with lively nightlife
Walnut StreetLogan SquareTrendy eateries, bohemian vibe
River MarketFulton MarketBustling market, foodie haven
Crossroads Arts DistrictPilsenRich in art, cultural immersion
WestsideAndersonvilleDiverse, with a strong sense of community
Power & Light DistrictRiver NorthVibrant nightlife, entertainment hub
Quality HillOld TownCharming, historic homes
LongfellowRoscoe VillageQuiet, family-oriented

For instance, if you're drawn to the lively arts scene and community feel of the Crossroads Arts District in Kansas City, you'll find Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood offers a similar vibe with its myriad of murals, art galleries, and cultural institutions like the National Museum of Mexican Art. Or, if the upscale, leisurely pace of Country Club Plaza is more your speed, the Gold Coast in Chicago will captivate you with its luxurious boutiques along the Magnificent Mile and stunning historical mansions. Conversely, those fond of the cozy, family-friendly atmosphere of Brookside in Kansas City might appreciate Ravenswood in Chicago, known for its quaint coffee shops, like Spoken Cafe, and delightful small parks perfect for weekend picnics and leisurely strolls.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Kansas City to Chicago

Making the move from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL offers an exciting journey, but it's essential to weigh the potential challenges against the opportunities. This careful comparison aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you to make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Kansas City, MO iconKansas City, MO
  • Lower job opportunities
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Fewer public transport options
  • Less diverse cuisine
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • More job opportunities
  • Larger cultural scene
  • Better public transport
  • More diverse cuisine
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher cost of living
  • More hectic lifestyle
  • Heavier traffic
  • Less space
Kansas City, MO iconKansas City, MO
  • Lower cost of living
  • Quieter lifestyle
  • Easier traffic conditions
  • More space

When considering a move from Kansas City to Chicago, the details matter. For example, Chicago's neighborhoods such as Lincoln Park or the Wicker Park offer vibrant dining scenes and cultural experiences far beyond what's found in Kansas City. The abundance of world-renowned museums, including The Art Institute of Chicago, and Michelin-starred restaurants like Alinea, offer a lifestyle rich in culture and flavor. Moreover, the extensive public transportation system, including the 'L' train, makes navigating the Windy City easier and more affordable. However, it's essential to prepare for a cost of living adjustment and potentially more crowded living conditions. Each city offers unique benefits, but for those craving a richer tapestry of cultural experiences, Chicago is an exciting opportunity.

Kansas City vs. Chicago Food Guide

As food plays a significant role in understanding local culture and what it’s like to live somewhere, we've prepared this guide to help you navigate the culinary landscape as you plan your move. This comparison of the local cuisine between Kansas City & Chicago will give you a taste of what to expect and help you transition into your new home with ease.

Kansas CityChicago
Most iconic local food itemBarbecueDeep-dish pizza
Most popular meat dishBurnt endsItalian beef
Most popular street food itemBarbecue sandwichesHot dogs
Most popular vegan foodBBQ jackfruitSeitan wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
  • Q39
  • Jack Stack Barbecue
  • Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Giordano’s
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Kansas City, the barbecue scene is more than just food; it's a cultural experience that showcases the city's history and culinary expertise. The legendary Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, known for its ribs and burnt ends, is a must-visit. On the other hand, moving to Chicago introduces you to an entirely different culinary landscape dominated by the famed deep-dish pizza. Neighborhoods like the Loop are home to iconic pizzerias such as Lou Malnati’s and Giordano’s, where the battle for the best deep-dish pizza rages on. Both cities boast a vibrant food scene, but the heart of their culinary identity lies in how these meals bring communities together, making your transition an exciting culinary journey.

Kansas City vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

Food is a crucial part of making a new area feel like home. This restaurant comparison Kansas City to Chicago is aimed at helping you find your new favorite dining spots, thereby easing your transition. Whether you prefer high-end eateries or cozy, casual joints, this guide is here to assist in replicating your culinary experiences.

Kansas CityChicagoWhat You'll Love
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-QueSmoque BBQKnown for its authentic, rich flavors similar to Joe's.
Corvino Supper Club & Tasting RoomAlineaOffers an exquisite fine-dining experience with innovative dishes.
The RiegerGirl & The GoatFeatures a rustic, eclectic menu with a warm atmosphere.
GrunauerEdelweiss German-AmericanKnown for traditional German cuisine, akin to Grunauer.
BluestemElizabeth RestaurantFocused on fine, innovative American cuisine like Bluestem.
Jack Stack BarbecueTwin Anchors Restaurant & TavernFamous for ribs and a similar BBQ vibe.
Novel RestaurantRoisterA place that also blends creative dishes with a comfortable setting.
Q39Green Street Smoked MeatsCaptures the essence of BBQ, much like Q39.
Garozzo's RistoranteSapori TrattoriaDelivers traditional Italian fare with a homey feel, akin to Garozzo's.
Pierpont's at Union StationGibsons Bar & SteakhouseOffers an iconic, upscale dining experience with historic vibes.

When the yearning for a slice of Kansas City's diverse dining scene hits, you'll find that Chicago's culinary landscape offers compelling parallels. For instance, Smoque BBQ and Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que both pride themselves on mastering the art of smoked meats, immersing diners in rich, authentic barbecue flavors. Similarly, those accustomed to the unique fine-dining experiences at Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room will discover Alinea's innovative approach to cuisine a refreshing continuation of culinary excellence. And for lovers of hearty German dishes, Edelweiss German-American in Chicago stands as a testament to traditional, comfort food that echoes the warm, inviting atmosphere of Grunauer. These recommended establishments not only strive to match their Kansas City counterparts in cuisine but also in the memorable dining experiences they provide.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Kansas City vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

When you're planning a move, understanding the differences in real estate between Kansas City, MO, and Chicago, IL, is crucial. This comparison highlights key aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle amenities, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect in your new city.

ComparisonKansas CityChicago
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsman, RanchModern, Greystone
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, quiet neighborhoodsProximity to public transit, rooftop decks

When comparing housing between Kansas City and Chicago, it's clear that each city boasts distinct characteristics. Kansas City, with its more affordable median home prices and rent, tends to offer larger properties with spacious yards, ideal for those who value privacy and space. Meanwhile, Chicago's higher cost of living is offset by its richly varied architecture, increased walkability, and greater access to public transit, catering to individuals seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle. The contrast in bikeability scores further illustrates the cities' different approaches to urban planning and accessibility.

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

If you're considering a move from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL, understanding how the weather differs between these two cities is crucial. This comparison will highlight key aspects such as temperature, sunshine, and seasonal variations to help you prepare for your new environment. Specifically, the weather comparison between Kansas City and Chicago aims to provide insight into what you can expect year-round.

Summer icon
89/68

Kansas City, MO

84/65

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
41/24

Kansas City, MO

36/22

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
42

Kansas City, MO

38

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
18

Kansas City, MO

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonKansas CityChicago
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersTornadoes, FloodsBlizzards, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Kansas City to Chicago, you'll experience a notable change in the weather, particularly in terms of snowfall and days of sunshine. Chicago sees nearly twice as much snowfall as Kansas City and fewer sunny days annually, which might require a shift in your winter wardrobe and activities. Additionally, despite similar humidity averages, Chicago's higher humidity in the summer might make the air feel muggier. Understanding these differences can help you adapt more quickly to your new home, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable.

Ready to start your move?

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

When contemplating a move from one city to another, grasping the financial nuances of your new home is crucial. This comparison sheds light on essential monetary aspects you'll encounter, transitioning from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL. Understanding these differences will better prepare you for the economic environment awaiting you.

ComparisonKansas CityChicago
Avg. Household Income$63,396$66,576
Cost of Living Index97.8116.9
State Income Tax5.44.95
Avg. Property Tax1.22.16
Avg. Sales Tax8.2510.25
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Finance, TechnologyFinance, Manufacturing, Information Technology
AffluenceMid-levelHigh
PovertyMediumMedium-High
HomelessnessModerateSignificant

In transitioning from Kansas City to Chicago, you'll observe several financial adjustments. Chicago's average household income is higher; however, this is somewhat counterbalanced by its higher cost of living and property tax rates. Though both cities have significant industry diversity, with finance being a common lead, Chicago edges forward with its vibrant manufacturing and technology sectors. Understanding these variances can help you navigate your move strategically, ensuring a smoother financial adaptation to your new home.

Kansas City vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

In preparing for your move from Kansas City, MO to Chicago, IL, it’s valuable to understand the communities you’re transitioning between. This guide provides a comparison of the politics and religion between Kansas City & Chicago , offering you a snapshot of the cultural and social differences you may encounter. Let's look at how the political leanings, local governance styles, and religious landscapes contrast between your current and future home.

Kansas CityChicago
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerate with a focus on city development and public safetyProgressive with significant attention on social issues and urban policies
ReligionDiverse religious community with Christianity being predominant KC FaithHighly diverse with a strong presence of Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and others Chicago Faith

When moving from Kansas City to Chicago, you’ll find yourself transitioning from a city with moderate Democratic leanings to one that is a stronghold for Democratic politics, reflected in its progressive local policies. Kansas City's political scene is more inclined towards moderate policies focusing on city development and public safety, while Chicago is recognized for its progressive stance on social issues and active engagement in urban policy reforms. Both cities boast a diverse religious landscape; however, Chicago offers a slightly broader spectrum of religious communities and establishments, indicating a rich tapestry of faiths and beliefs that interweave to form the city's cultural fabric. This diversity in religious practice contributes significantly to the social and cultural landscape of Chicago, enriching your experience as you get to know your new home.

Kansas City vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Kansas City, MO, to Chicago, IL, involves adjusting to different driving and transit environments. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Kansas City & Chicago is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these two vibrant cities.

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

In Kansas City, the average commute time is significantly shorter than in Chicago, which can be attributed to less traffic congestion. However, the availability and convenience of public transit in Kansas City doesn't compare to Chicago's extensive network, including the CTA, Metra, and buses, making it easier to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. In Chicago, your dependence on a car might significantly decrease, especially if you live and work within the city limits. Understanding and adapting to these differences will be key to smoothing your transition from Kansas City to Chicago.

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, MO to Illinois Moving Routes