Best Charlotte to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide

Get a Quote Now!

Charlotte to Chicago Movers

Moving from the Queen City to the Windy City marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. You're transitioning from Charlotte's lush landscapes and laid-back pace to Chicago's bustling streets, iconic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Understanding the importance of this long-distance move, trusting professional and reliable movers becomes crucial to ensuring a smooth transition, and that's where we come in, offering our expertise to connect you with the best movers through our unbiased ranking algorithm.

North Carolina iconArrow iconIllinois icon

Best Charlotte to Chicago Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
606 Movers, Inc.9.36A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Move-tastic!9.35A+Authorized For HHGContact
You Move Me Charlotte9.33A+Authorized For HHGContact
Road Haugs Moving & Storage9.06A+Authorized For HHGContact
Bulldog Moving LLC9.01A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
U-turn icon

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

5 Best Charlotte 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
You Move Me Charlotte Logo
Exceptional9.33/10
based on 2,826+ data points

About You Move Me Charlotte

You Move Me is a franchised moving company that has locations all across North America, including Charlotte, NC. Serving the entire Charlott...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Piano moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2518689 / 878140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Road Haugs Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional9.06/10
based on 1,682+ data points

About Road Haugs Moving & Storage

Road Haugs Moving & Storage is a Charlotte-based moving company that is second-generation family-owned and operated. Primarily executing...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Specialty Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2535952 / 882889

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
4
B
Superb9.01/10
based on 129+ data points

About Bulldog Moving LLC

Bulldog Moving LLC is a reputable moving service in Charlotte, North Carolina. The company provides a range of services including local and ...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long-Distance Moving Services
  • Residential Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/19/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1670218 / 613925

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved29,677 (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.

Charlotte vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be a daunting experience, especially when you're not familiar with your new home. That's why we've created this guide to help you find your bearings through a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Charlotte, NC & Chicago, IL . By comparing your old stomping grounds in Charlotte to similar neighborhoods in Chicago, we aim to make your transition as seamless as possible.

CharlotteChicagoHow They're Similar
Myers ParkLincoln ParkAffluent, family-friendly areas
South EndWicker ParkVibrant nightlife and arts scene
UptownThe LoopCentral business districts with attractions
Plaza MidwoodLogan SquareEclectic and hip with diverse eateries
DilworthOld TownHistoric homes and local boutiques
NoDaAndersonvilleArtsy with a strong sense of community
ElizabethGold CoastUpscale, historic residences
BallantyneLincoln SquareQuiet, family-oriented community
MidtownStreetervilleBustling with cultural amenities
University CityHyde ParkAcademic atmosphere with historic sites

For those moving from Charlotte's prized Myers Park, with its serene avenues lined by majestic trees, to Chicago, Lincoln Park awaits with its own brand of elegance, surrounded by ample green space, like the actual Lincoln Park. The artistic vibrancy of NoDa that you've grown to love finds a mirror in Andersonville, where creativity flourishes on every block, and community spirit runs deep. And if you're missing the historic charm of Dilworth's bungalows and friendly front porches, Old Town in Chicago offers a similar warmth with its own storied homes and cobblestone streets. No matter where you find yourself, exploring local haunts like Pequod's Pizza in Lincoln Park for a slice of deep-dish or catching a show at The Lyric Opera near Streeterville, you're sure to discover the unique essence that makes each Chicago neighborhood feel like home.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Charlotte to Chicago

Moving from one city to another brings a wealth of changes, impacting everything from your daily commute to your social life. In considering the move from Charlotte, NC to Chicago, IL, it’s crucial to weigh both the challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, through simple yet insightful charts comparing the cons and pros, and vice versa. Let these comparisons serve as a guide to what awaits in your potential new home.

CONs
PROs
Charlotte, NC iconCharlotte, NC
  • Warmer Climate
  • Smaller Airport
  • Lower Public Transit Use
  • Lesser Job Opportunities in Tech
  • Fewer Cultural Institutions
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Seasonal Variety
  • Larger Airport
  • Extensive Public Transit
  • Greater Job Opportunities in Tech
  • More Cultural Institutions
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • More Urban Density
  • Higher Traffic Levels
  • Larger City Size
  • Less Personal Car Use
Charlotte, NC iconCharlotte, NC
  • Lower Cost of Living
  • More Suburban Areas
  • Lower Traffic Levels
  • Smaller City Size
  • More Personal Car Use

Before you decide to make the move from Charlotte to Chicago, it's worth diving deeper into what each city offers. Chicago's expanded public transit system—comprising the CTA, Metra, and Pace—provides an efficient way to travel across the city and suburbs, contrasting Charlotte's more car-dependent lifestyle. For culture enthusiasts and professionals in the tech industry, Chicago's bustling scene is unmatched with institutions like The Museum of Science and Industry, and a thriving tech startup ecosystem. Chicago's four distinct seasons promise a varied experience year-round, from enjoying the blossoms in Grant Park during spring to savoring the thriving restaurant scene, with establishments such as Girl & The Goat, offering culinary delights that cater to every palate. While the cost of living and urban density in Chicago may be higher than in Charlotte, the city's cultural, professional, and lifestyle offerings present compelling reasons for consideration.

Charlotte vs. Chicago Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Charlotte & Chicago, two vibrant cities with their own unique food scenes. Food is a significant part of local culture and understanding what it's like to live in an area. This comparison aims to inform you about the culinary landscape of your future home.

CharlotteChicago
Most iconic local food itemPulled Pork BBQDeep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishCarolina-style RibsItalian Beef Sandwich
Most popular street food itemFried PicklesChicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodBBQ JackfruitVegan Deep Dish Pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Price's Chicken Coop
  • Midwood Smokehouse
  • Futo Buta
  • Giordano's
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Charlotte and Chicago both offer distinct and diverse food scenes reflecting their cultural heritage and present culinary innovations. In Charlotte, the BBQ scene is king, with spots like Midwood Smokehouse showcasing the city's love for smoked meats. Fried pickles, a favorite street food, can often be found at food festivals and outdoor events. Conversely, Chicago's food scene is marked by its famous deep-dish pizza, which can be experienced at iconic establishments like Giordano's. The city's Italian beef sandwiches and Chicago-style hot dogs are must-tries for any meat lover. For vegans, both cities offer plenty of options, but Chicago's vegan deep dish pizza presents a unique twist on its classic dish, catering to a growing demand for plant-based alternatives.

Charlotte vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. This guide aims to ease your transition from Charlotte, NC, to Chicago, IL by comparing your favorite Charlotte eateries to their Chicago counterparts . Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual bites, or unique flavors, we've pinpointed places where you'll feel right at home in The Windy City.

CharlotteChicagoWhat You'll Love
KiKi BistroavecWarm, communal dining with a blend of Mediterranean and Midwestern influences.
Midwood SmokehouseSmoque BBQAuthentic, wood-smoked barbecue capturing the essence of Southern flavors.
Price's Chicken CoopHarold's Chicken ShackIconic spot for fried chicken with a Chicago twist.
FahrenheitThe Signature RoomHigh dining with stunning city views, reflecting Fahrenheit's atmosphere.
Amélie's French BakeryVanille PatisserieFrench-inspired pastries and sweets that evoke the charm of Amélie's.
Optimist HallRevival Food HallAll-local dining concept that encapsulates the food hall vibe of Optimist Hall.
HaberdishBig JonesSouthern cooking with an emphasis on heritage recipes, akin to Haberdish's concept.
HeirloomFarmhouse ChicagoFarm-to-table dishes that mirror Heirloom's commitment to local sourcing.
Soul GastroloungeGirl & The GoatEclectic small plates and a lively atmosphere, capturing the essence of Soul Gastrolounge.
Leah & LouiseMississippi's DeltaHomestyle Southern dishes that reflect Leah & Louise’s soulful menu.

Exploring the dining scene in a new city can be a thrilling adventure, especially when you find places that resonate with your taste. For instance, if you've enjoyed the communal atmosphere and Mediterranean flavors at KiKi Bistro, you'll find avec in Chicago to be a comforting replica with its warm, welcoming space and blend of Mediterranean and local dishes. Similarly, the transition from the South's famous barbecue at Midwood Smokehouse to Chicago's renowned Smoque BBQ will be seamless, capturing the essence of wood-smoked meats and the depth of flavors you’ve come to love. Also, those longing for the unique, artistic vibe and eclectic dishes of Soul Gastrolounge will find a kindred spirit in Girl & The Goat, where innovative plates and a dynamic ambiance create an unforgettable dining experience. Each comparison not only guides you to a new favorite spot but also brings a piece of Charlotte's culinary soul to your new Chicago lifestyle.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Charlotte vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

When contemplating a move, comparing the real estate landscape between your current and future city is crucial. In this guide, we'll delve into how Charlotte, NC, and Chicago, IL, stand in terms of housing. Understanding these differences will empower your decision-making process.

ComparisonCharlotteChicago
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, CraftsmanPrairie, Greystone
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLarge yards, natural lightLake views, public transit access

Charlotte's housing market is attractive with its blend of Colonial and Craftsman-style homes, often emphasizing large yards and ample natural light. This contrasts with Chicago's Prairie and Greystone architecture, where lake views and access to an extensive public transit system are frequently highlighted. Chicago scores higher in terms of urban lifestyle, boasting superior walkability and bikeability, reflecting its dense, urban environment. The difference in median monthly rent — higher in Chicago — correlates with it offering a more vibrant urban lifestyle. Whether your priority is space and comfort, or access to urban amenities, these cities cater to varied tastes and needs.

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.

Charlotte vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares between Charlotte, NC and Chicago, IL is crucial. This comparison will give you a clear picture of what to expect and how to prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
89/67

Charlotte, NC

85/65

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
51/30

Charlotte, NC

36/22

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
41.63

Charlotte, NC

36.89

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Charlotte, NC

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonCharlotteChicago
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersHurricanes, TornadoesBlizzards, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Charlotte to Chicago will introduce you to cooler summers and considerably colder winters. Chicago experiences about 29 fewer days of sunshine annually, which could affect your outdoor activities. Moreover, the significant difference in annual snowfall (Chicago receives 32 more inches on average) means you'll need to prepare for snow removal and winter driving. On the other hand, Charlotte's higher summer temperatures and slightly more humid climate could be a relief if you're not fond of the cold. Regardless of your preferences, preparing for these changes will make your transition smoother.

Ready to start your move?

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

When relocating, grasping the financial landscape of your new home is crucial. This comparison provides insight into vital economic factors you'll face moving from Charlotte, NC to Chicago, IL. Understanding these differences will help ease your transition.

ComparisonCharlotteChicago
Avg. Household Income$70,869$66,576
Cost of Living Index93.2116.9
State Income Tax5.254.95
Avg. Property Tax1.022.12
Avg. Sales Tax7.2510.25
Top 3 IndustriesFinancial Services, Airlines, EnergyFinancial Services, Manufacturing, Information Technology
Affluencemoderately affluentvaried
Povertynoticeablesignificant
Homelessnesspresentconcerning

Exploring the financial nuances between Charlotte and Chicago highlights several factors essential to your move. Charlotte boasts a slightly higher average household income and a lower cost of living index compared to Chicago, making day-to-day expenses more manageable. However, Chicago's vibrant economic scene, driven by diverse industries, offers unique job opportunities. Property taxes in Chicago are significantly higher, which is an important consideration if you're thinking of buying a home. Meanwhile, sales tax rates are also higher in Chicago, affecting your regular purchases. Adjusting to these economic realities will be a key part of settling into your new city.

Charlotte vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot aimed to help you understand the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Charlotte & Chicago . As you plan your move, gaining insight into these aspects will help you integrate more smoothly into your new city.

CharlotteChicago
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerate with a mix of conservative and liberal viewpointsLiberal with progressive policies
ReligionDiverse, Protestant majorityDiverse, Catholic majority

The comparative differences in the political and religious landscapes between Charlotte and Chicago reflect each city's unique culture and community values. Charlotte, with its slightly more moderate stance, presents a blend of conservative and liberal viewpoints, which can be seen in local governance and day-to-day life. In contrast, Chicago's political scene is more uniformly liberal, advocating progressive policies and initiatives. Regarding religion, Charlotte’s diverse spiritual community predominantly identifies with Protestant faiths, which influences local norms and traditions. Meanwhile, Chicago boasts a rich mosaic of religious beliefs with a significant number of residents identifying as Catholic, contributing to the city's broad spectrum of cultural and community events. This transition may offer you a fresh perspective on community involvement and local culture in your new home.

Charlotte vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Charlotte, NC to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between these vibrant cities. Whether you're driving or taking public transport, this comparison of Charlotte & Chicago will help you navigate your new urban landscape with ease.

ComparisonCharlotteChicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)24.934.4
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingEasier

In Charlotte, while the average commute time is shorter, the city's public transit options are not as robust as Chicago's, thus making it somewhat challenging to get by without a car. However, Chicago, with its extensive public transit system including buses and the "L" train, offers a more feasible lifestyle for those wishing to forego private vehicle ownership. The higher traffic congestion in Chicago reflects its bigger urban density but also comes with greater accessibility to public transport. This capability significantly contributes to Chicago's appeal for those who prioritize eco-friendly and cost-effective commuting options.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Charlotte to Chicago Movers Featured Image
Popular moving routes background image

Popular Charlotte, NC to Illinois Moving Routes