Moving from Cary to Chicago?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Cary to Chicago Movers

Moving from Cary, NC to Chicago, IL isn't just a change of scenery – it's embarking on an exciting chapter in your life. You're trading the tranquil life and mild winters of "Concentration City" for the bustling streets and towering skylines of the "Windy City," each with their unique foods, neighborhoods, and vibes. Given the distance and the life changes that come with such a move, it's crucial to choose trusted and reliable professional movers. Trust us to connect you with the finest, ensuring a smooth transition to your new adventure.

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

5 Best Cary to Chicago Movers

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

#1
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 954+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Free estimates, Full Value Protection (FVP), Fully licensed and insured See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 3344628 Verify

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in rocky mount 2023 raleigh moving company image
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#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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#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 3 ranked movers in chicago 2023 move tastic image
#4
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,516+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 3205320 Verify

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>

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#5
R
Exceptional

based on 512+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Long Distance Moving, Furniture Assembly, Wrapping Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2815544 Verify

About RDU Delivered

RDU Delivered is a professional moving and relocation company that has been in business since 2013. They specialize in long distance moves a...Read More >>

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Relocating from Cary to Chicago Neighborhood Guide

Moving can be a daunting task, especially when relocating to a completely different city. To ease this transition, we've drawn parallels between Cary, NC, and Chicago, IL, allowing you to compare local neighborhoods . By matching up popular neighborhoods in Cary with their most similar counterparts in Chicago, this guide helps you navigate through your new city, making it feel a little more like home.

CaryChicago
PrestonLincoln Park

Green spaces, family-friendly

AmberlyRoscoe Village

Community-oriented, quiet

Carpenter VillageAndersonville

Diverse community, rich history

LochmereWicker Park

Vibrant nightlife, arts scene

HighcroftOld Town

Charming, historic architecture

Green LevelHyde Park

Cultural institutions, academic presence

WellsleyRavenswood

Residential, craft breweries

WindermereLakeview

Proximity to water, bustling atmosphere

MacGregor DownsBucktown

Upscale casual, trend-setting

Stone Creek VillageLogan Square

Booming dining scene, historic boulevards

If the green, sprawling spaces of Preston drew you to Cary, you'll find Lincoln Park's vast parks, such as the namesake Lincoln Park itself, and family-friendly atmosphere equally inviting. Similarly, Carpenter Village's diverse community and rich heritage mirror Andersonville's multicultural vibe, punctuated by unique eateries like Hopleaf Bar. For those who enjoy a vibrant nightlife and an artsy scene, Wicker Park stands in for Lochmere, offering spots like the Dove's Luncheonette for a cool dining experience amidst a dynamic cultural backdrop. Whether you're moving for the academic scene found in Cary's Green Level, which resembles Hyde Park's rich educational and cultural offerings including the University of Chicago, or the historic charm seen in Cary's Highcroft mirrored in Old Town's picturesque streets, Chicago's neighborhoods offer a familiar yet distinct charm to make your transition as smooth as possible.

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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 Cary to Chicago

Moving from one city to another offers a unique opportunity to experience the contrasts and benefits of each locale. This guide aims to compare moving from Cary, NC to Chicago, IL , highlighting both the pros and cons to provide an honest reflection of what this relocation entails. By examining these differences, you can make a well-informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Cary, NC iconCary, NC
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less public transit
  • Warmer winters
  • Fewer cultural venues
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Larger city energy
  • Extensive public transit
  • Seasonal weather
  • Rich cultural scene
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Noisier city environment
  • Higher crime rates
  • Less accessible greenery
  • Variable air quality
Cary, NC iconCary, NC
  • Quiet, suburban feel
  • Lower crime rates
  • More green spaces
  • Better air quality

When considering a move from Cary, NC to Chicago, IL, you're transitioning from a quiet, suburban setting to a bustling urban environment. While Cary offers a peaceful atmosphere with ample green spaces, like the popular Fred G. Bond Metro Park, Chicago beckons with its vibrant cultural scene, from the iconic Art Institute of Chicago to lively music venues like the City Winery. You might miss Cary's lower crime rates and cleaner air, but Chicago's extensive public transit system and seasonal weather provide a different set of advantages. Moreover, Chicago's myriad of restaurants, sights, and activities ensure there's always something new to explore.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Cary to Chicago

Food is a vibrant part of local culture and gives you a taste of what life is like in a new area. This guide offers a direct comparison of the local cuisine between Cary & Chicago to help you get a flavor of the culinary scenes you're moving into.

CaryChicago

Most iconic local food item

North Carolina BBQDeep Dish Pizza

Most popular meat dish

Pulled PorkItalian Beef

Most popular street food item

Hot DogsPolish Sausage

Most popular vegan food

Vegan BBQ SandwichSeitan Wings

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. La Farm Bakery
    2. Ashworth Drugs
    3. Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen
    1. Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
    2. Alinea
    3. Portillo's

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

69

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

68

In Cary, the local barbecue scene defines much of its culinary identity, with a special focus on the revered North Carolina BBQ, particularly in areas like downtown and beyond. Chicago, renowned for its deep-dish pizza, offers this and more in neighborhoods such as the Loop and Lincoln Park. Yet, it's not just about staple dishes. Chicago's diverse foodie scene extends from traditional Italian Beef sandwiches found at Portillo's to innovative vegan options like Seitan Wings, reflecting the city's commitment to a broad culinary spectrum. Whether you're exploring Cary's cozy eateries or diving into Chicago's vibrant, bustling food scene, you'll discover flavors that are as distinctive as they are delightful.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Cary to Chicago

Settling into a new city means finding those special spots that feel like home. Food plays a crucial role in this transition, so comparing Cary, NC's top eateries with Chicago, IL's culinary scene can guide you to your next favorite dining destination. This comparison will make your move smoother by aligning your food preferences with what Chicago has to offer.

La Farm BakeryFloriole Cafe & Bakery

Both renowned for French-inspired baked goods.

Lucky 32 Southern KitchenBig Jones

Authentic Southern cuisine with a focus on sustainability.

CineBistroDinner and a Movie at the Davis Theater

High-end cinema dining experience.

HeronsAlinea

Both offer an upscale dining experience with innovative dishes.

Pizzeria FaulisiSpacca Napoli

Both celebrate authentic Neapolitan pizza.

Sri Meenakshi BhavanCumin

Both specialize in traditional and contemporary Indian cuisine.

BosphorusReza's Restaurant

Offers a wide range of Middle Eastern specialties.

Taqueria del SolBig Star

Both known for their creative tacos and vibrant outdoor seating.

Kababish CafeNaansense

Both serve modern interpretations of classic Indian dishes.

Once in a Blue Moon BakerySweet Mandy B's

Neighborhood charm with a wide variety of baked treats.

Exploring the culinary landscape of Chicago through the lens of your Cary favorites offers not just a taste of nostalgia but an introduction to the expansive dining experiences awaiting in your new city. For example, La Farm Bakery's counterpart in Chicago, Floriole Cafe & Bakery, not only offers a comparable selection of French-inspired baked goods but also embodies a similar passion for craftsmanship and quality ingredients. Likewise, the transition from Herons to Alinea reflects a move towards even more creative and experiential dining, promising an unforgettable culinary journey. This comparison isn't just about finding a similar menu; it's about discovering a dining atmosphere that resonates with your tastes and preferences, making your new city feel like home.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Cary to Chicago

When considering a move, it's crucial to compare the key aspects of real estate between your current and potential new home. This comparison between Cary, NC, and Chicago, IL, focuses on housing costs, statistics, architecture, walkability, and lifestyle to give you a thorough understanding of what to expect.

While Cary boasts modern and traditional homes with family-friendly communities, Chicago offers vibrant Prairie and Contemporary architecture alongside exciting urban lifestyle perks such as lake views and easy public transportation access. Although the median home price in Cary exceeds Chicago's, renting tends to be more affordable in Cary. Yet, Chicago wins hands down in terms of walkability and urban lifestyle, making it an attractive option for those seeking a dynamic city life. Recognizing these differences will help you refine your housing search based on your preferences for architecture, convenience, and lifestyle.

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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 Cary to Chicago

When moving from one place to another, it’s critical to understand how the weather will shift. This comparison focuses on displaying how the climates in Cary, NC, and Chicago, IL, differ, helping you prepare for your relocation. Knowing these differences ensures you're ready for your new environment.

Summer icon
89°F / 68°F

Cary, NC

85°F / 66°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
50°F / 30°F

Cary, NC

35°F / 22°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43"

Cary, NC

36"

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6"

Cary, NC

36"

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both Cary and Chicago enjoy a vibrant four-season climate, the winters in Chicago are notably colder and snowier compared to Cary. You'll experience less sunshine and more snowfall annually in Chicago, making winter gear a must-have. On the other hand, summers in both cities are relatively warm, though Cary has a slightly higher average humidity level which can make the heat feel more intense. It's also important to note the difference in natural disaster risks; Cary is more prone to hurricanes, while Chicago faces blizzards. Adjusting to these changes will be key to enjoying your new home to the fullest.

Ready to start your move?

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

When deciding to move from one place to another, getting a grasp on financial expectations is crucial. This comparison aims to streamline your understanding of how the cost of living, taxes, and average income compare when moving from Cary, NC to Chicago, IL , making your transition as smooth as possible.

The financial differences between Cary, NC and Chicago, IL, are substantial in areas including average household income, cost of living, and taxes. For instance, you'll find Cary residents enjoy a higher average income which directly correlates to its higher cost of living index. However, lower state income taxes in NC might balance this out somewhat. On the other hand, despite a lower average household income in Chicago, its bigger economy offers diverse job opportunities, though this comes with higher sales and property taxes. Understanding these nuances ensures you make informed decisions about housing, savings, and lifestyle adjustments needed in your new city.

Political & Religious Comparison between Cary, NC and Chicago, IL

When planning your move from Cary, NC, to Chicago, IL, it's beneficial to consider how the local communities differ on several key aspects. This comparison aims to provide a quick overview of the political and religious makeup between Cary & Chicago , offering insights into what you might expect in your new environment.

CaryChicago

Political Make-up

Lean conservativeStrongly liberal

Local Politics

Moderately engaged communityHighly engaged community

Religion

Mixed, with a significant Christian presence Cary ChurchesDiverse, prominently Catholic but includes a wide array of faiths Archdiocese of Chicago

While Cary has a more conservative leaning with its political makeup, Chicago is known for its strong liberal stance, reflecting in its highly engaged local politics. This could mark a significant shift in the public discourse and community initiatives you encounter. Furthermore, your religious and spiritual life might see a difference; Cary offers a mix with a considerable Christian influence, whereas Chicago boasts a broader diversity in faiths, prominently Catholic, complemented by a variety of other religious communities. This kaleidoscope of political and religious views in Chicago could offer a broader spectrum of cultural and community activities.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Cary to Chicago

Moving from Cary, NC to Chicago, IL presents a significant change in daily commute and traffic conditions. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Cary & Chicago will help you better understand what to expect in terms of daily commuting habits and the overall ease of getting around.

CaryChicago
2535

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

38

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

NoYes

Can you get by without car?

In Cary, NC, you might find yourself more dependent on a car with its lower public transit availability score of 3 out of 10, and an average commute time of about 25 minutes. The traffic congestion is relatively lower compared to Chicago, which scores a 7 out of 10 in traffic congestion but boasts a higher public transit availability score of 8 out of 10. Living in Chicago, you can more feasibly get by without owning a car due to its extensive public transit options, including buses and the 'L' train system, making it a more accessible city for daily commuting without a personal vehicle.

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