Best St. Louis to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the storied Gateway City to the bustling Windy City marks an exciting chapter in your life, full of new opportunities and adventures. While you're leaving behind St. Louis's iconic Gateway Arch and mouthwatering barbecue for Chicago's famed skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza, one key to a smooth transition is ensuring you have the right support on your journey. That's why it's important to choose trusted and reliable professional movers for this long-distance move, and that's where we come in, offering you the best options to make your move as seamless as possible.
Best St. Louis to Chicago Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to St. Louis guide.
5 Best St. Louis to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
This listing has been claimed by Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLCAbout Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC
Sunrise Moving and Packing, LLC is a full-time moving company servicing the St. Louis, MO metropolitan area and surrounding communities. Thi...Read More >>
Services
- Full Moving Service
- Commercial Moving Service
- Long Distance Services
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
About BEK Moving Co.
Although BEK Moving Co. started in 2017, it has over 45 years of working experience performing residential moves, commercial relocations, an...Read More >>
Services
- Residential moves (houses, apartments, high rises, etc.)
- Long-distance moves
- Furniture disassembly & reassembly
About New Day Moving LLC
New Day Moving LLC is an independent full-service moving company based in St. Louis, MO, and founded in 2015. It has a licensed and insured ...Read More >>
Services
- Local & Long-Distance Moving for Residential & Commercial Properties
- Packing, Unpacking, & Crating
- Furniture Moving
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.
St. Louis vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be a daunting experience, but finding a neighborhood that feels like home makes all the difference. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison to help you familiarize yourself with Chicago by using what you know about St. Louis, MO & Chicago, IL neighborhoods . This guide highlights the top neighborhoods in St. Louis and pairs them with their Chicago counterparts, giving you a glimpse into your potential new community.
| St. Louis | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Central West End | Gold Coast | Affluent, historic charm |
| The Hill | Little Italy | Rich in heritage and cuisine |
| Soulard | Wicker Park | Vibrant nightlife and culture |
| Lafayette Square | Old Town | Quaint architecture, community feel |
| Forest Park Southeast | Lincoln Park | Green spaces, family-friendly |
| Cherokee Street | Pilsen | Eclectic, artistic community |
| South Grand | Andersonville | Diverse, international restaurants |
| Tower Grove South | Logan Square | Booming with bars and eateries |
| Shaw | Roscoe Village | Quiet, relaxed vibe |
| Benton Park | Bucktown | Hip, with a mix of old and new |
If you're moving from the Central West End, you might find the Gold Coast's blend of luxury and history appealing, with its magnificent Mile shops and the historic Water Tower. Should you crave the culinary delights and tight-knit community of The Hill, Little Italy in Chicago offers an enchanting mix of authentic dining options like Tufano's Vernon Park Tap alongside cultural festivities. For those who appreciated the vibrant atmosphere and social scene of Soulard, Wicker Park presents a seamless transition with its array of bars, live music venues like Subterranean, and eclectic mix of restaurants. Lafayette Square lovers will be drawn to Old Town's charming brick-lined streets, where the annual Old Town Art Fair showcases local talent amidst historical landmark homes. Forest Park Southeast residents will find a breath of fresh air in Lincoln Park, where the eponymous park offers vast green spaces, including the Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory, making it an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
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. Louis to Chicago
Moving from St. Louis, MO to Chicago, IL is a significant transition that warrants a balanced examination of the benefits and drawbacks. This comparison aims to provide a clear and honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating, helping you make a well-informed decision about your move.
St. Louis, MO- Smaller city vibe
- Less public transit options
- Lower job opportunities
- Less diversity
Chicago, IL- Larger, vibrant city
- Extensive public transit
- Greater employment prospects
- More diverse culture
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- Less green space
- More traffic
- Anonymity in crowds
St. Louis, MO- Lower cost of living
- More green space
- Less traffic congestion
- Familiar community
While moving from St. Louis to Chicago introduces you to a larger, more vibrant city with extensive public transit options and greater employment prospects, it's also a transition to a place with a higher cost of living and potentially less personal space. In Chicago, neighborhoods such as Lincoln Park and Wicker Park not only offer lush green spaces like the Lincoln Park itself but also a plethora of diverse restaurants like the famed deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s. However, the trade-off comes in terms of adjusting to a busier, more anonymous urban life compared to the familiarity and close-knit community vibes in St. Louis. Balancing the excitement of experiencing iconic sights, like Navy Pier or The Art Institute of Chicago, against these factors is key in making your relocation decision.
St. Louis vs. Chicago Food Guide
When considering a move, it's essential to understand the local culture, and for many, cuisine plays a significant role. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between St. Louis & Chicago to help you get a taste of what your new home has to offer.
| St. Louis | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | St. Louis-style pizza | Deep-dish pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | St. Louis-style ribs | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Toasted ravioli | Chicago-style hot dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Cauliflower wings | Seitan wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving to Chicago, you're entering a vibrant food scene recognized for its legendary deep-dish pizza, among other local favorites like the Chicago-style hot dog. For deep-dish, places like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria are iconic, encapsulating the culinary spirit of the city. The food truck scene in Chicago reflects its eclectic taste, with nearly every cuisine under the sun available. Neighborhoods like the West Loop or Lincoln Park are hotspots for foodies searching for innovative dishes or modern takes on classics. Also, Chicago's dedication to diversity is evident in its vegan and health-conscious options, making it a welcoming city for all dietary preferences.
St. Louis vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
When moving from one city to another, finding your new favorite eateries is crucial to feeling at home. This comparison of St. Louis and Chicago restaurants aims to ease your transition by matching up top dining spots in your current and future cities. Whether you're craving high-end dining or casual bites, use this guide to find Chicago equivalents to your St. Louis favorites.
| St. Louis | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Pappy's Smokehouse | Smoque BBQ | Both famous for deeply flavorful and tender smoked meats |
| Sidney Street Cafe | Girl & The Goat | Inventive dishes in a warm, chic setting |
| Blueberry Hill | Au Cheval | Legendary burgers in an iconic setting |
| Tony's | Spiaggia | Both offering high-end Italian cuisine and impeccable service |
| City Museum’s Rooftop Cantina | Cindy's Rooftop | Notable for views and vibrant atmosphere |
| Bogart's Smokehouse | Green Street Smoked Meats | Refined take on the classic BBQ experience |
| Gioia's Deli | Al’s Beef | Famous for iconic sandwiches, Chicago’s answer to the hot salami sandwich |
| Rooster | Eggsperience Pancakes & Café | Casual brunch spots known for hearty breakfasts |
| Olio | avec | Similar focus on wine and shareable, Mediterranean-inspired plates |
| Ted Drewes Frozen Custard | Margie's Candies | Both beloved for their classic, creamy treats |
In migrating from St. Louis to Chicago, you'll find many culinary experiences that echo the flavors of your old haunts. Smoque BBQ in Chicago, for example, mirrors the mouthwatering meats of Pappy's Smokehouse with its tender and richly flavored offerings. For Italian cuisine enthusiasts, the transition from Tony's in St. Louis to Spiaggia in Chicago will be seamless, with both restaurants providing a luxurious dining experience comprised of meticulously crafted dishes. On the sweeter side, trading Ted Drewes Frozen Custard for Margie's Candies means you won't have to forgo indulgence in classic treats and sundaes that harken back to simpler times but with a delightful twist that's quintessentially Chicago. This guide serves as your culinary compass, pointing you toward new favorites that reflect the spirit and taste of your St. Louis staples.
Ready to start your move?
St. Louis vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. Comparing St. Louis, MO and Chicago, IL can shed light on significant differences and similarities in housing , helping you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | St. Louis | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Brick Bungalows | Greystone and High-Rises |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Garages | Lake views, Proximity to transit |
In comparing St. Louis and Chicago , it's clear that while both cities offer vibrant urban lifestyles, Chicago leans more towards a high-density urban environment with greystone buildings and high-rises prevalent in its landscape, compared to St. Louis's predominance of brick bungalows. The difference in median home prices and monthly rent reflects the wider range of amenities and the demand for living in Chicago, known for its lake views and extensive public transit system, elements that are highly sought after in real estate listings. Conversely, St. Louis is characterized by more affordable housing options, spacious yards, and the offering of private garages, catering to those prioritizing space and privacy.
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.
St. Louis vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When relocating from St. Louis, MO to Chicago, IL, understanding the difference in weather is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and preparations for your new home environment.
St. Louis, MO
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
St. Louis, MO
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
St. Louis, MO
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
St. Louis, MO
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | St. Louis | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Blizzards, Cold Waves |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In comparing St. Louis and Chicago, it’s important to note the distinct differences, especially in winter temperatures and snowfall. Chicago experiences colder winters with more snow, averaging 36 inches annually, compared to St. Louis's milder 18 inches. Additionally, while both cities have moderate air quality, Chicago's can dip to levels that are unhealthy for sensitive groups more often. Understanding these variations can help in planning your wardrobe and outdoor activities, as well as in managing health concerns related to air quality and allergies.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from St. Louis to Chicago
When you're moving from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how your finances may shift. This comparison aims to show you the differences between St. Louis, MO and Chicago, IL in terms of money and finance , to help you adjust your budget and expectations accordingly.
| Comparison | St. Louis | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $49,965 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.4 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 5.4 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.4 | 2.1 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.68 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | moderate | high |
| Poverty | significant | noticeable |
| Homelessness | concerning | pressing |
Reflecting on the table, we can discern key differences between St. Louis and Chicago in finance-related metrics. Notably, Chicago residents generally enjoy a higher average household income, which correlates with the city's cost of living index being above the national average. However, this increase in income is also met with higher average property and sales taxes. It's crucial for you to consider these factors, as they directly influence daily and long-term financial planning. The prominent industries in each city suggest potential job markets for newcomers, highlighting differing economic strengths. Understanding the nuances in affluence, poverty, and homelessness rates provides a lens into the broader social and economic challenges and advantages of each city.
St. Louis vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from St. Louis, MO to Chicago, IL? It's vital to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This outline offers a comparison of the politics between St. Louis & Chicago , providing a quick glance at their political and religious landscapes to aid your relocation decisions.
| St. Louis | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal-leaning | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | City-led initiatives focus on urban development and public safety | City-led initiatives focus on public health, housing, and education |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Catholic presence | Diverse, with a notable Catholic and Protestant presence |
Both St. Louis and Chicago have liberal-leaning populations, yet Chicago is known for its strong Democratic leaning, emphasizing policies on public health, housing, and education. St. Louis, while also liberal, has concentrated efforts on urban development and public safety. Religious diversity is significant in both cities, though each has a notable presence of certain denominations; St. Louis with a significant Catholic base and Chicago incorporating both Catholic and Protestant communities prominently. This blend of political and religious backgrounds contributes to the vibrant, diverse cultures that characterize both cities.
St. Louis vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from St. Louis, MO to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between these two cities. This comparison aims to give you a clearer picture of what daily commuting might look like, helping you adjust to your new environment more comfortably.
| Comparison | St. Louis | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Yes |
In St. Louis, you'll find that having a car is almost a necessity due to the limited availability and coverage of public transit. The average commute time is shorter than in Chicago, but you might still face some traffic congestion. On the other hand, moving to Chicago introduces you to a city where public transit is far more accessible and extensive, including buses and the 'L' train system, making it easier to navigate the city without a car. While the average commute time is longer and traffic congestion is higher, the convenience and reach of Chicago's public transportation can significantly affect your daily commuting experience.
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