Best Durham to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the charming streets of Durham, NC to the bustling cityscape of Chicago, IL marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new opportunities and adventures. While you're trading the laid-back vibes of the Bull City for the Windy City's towering skyline and vibrant culture, it's crucial to ensure the journey is smooth. That's why it's important to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers for this long-distance move, and we at Great Guys Moving are here to help you every step of the way.
Best Durham to Chicago Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Durham guide.
5 Best Durham to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 >>
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving ExpertsAbout 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 >>
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years...Read More >>
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
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.
Durham vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting. In an effort to ease this transition, we've put together a unique guide. By comparing popular neighborhoods from Durham, NC with those in Chicago, IL, we aim to help you find your perfect spot. This guide emphasizes a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Chicago, IL, using what you know to explore what you don’t.
| Durham | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Trinity Park | Lincoln Park | Both have historical homes and vibrant parks |
| Old West Durham | Wicker Park | Eclectic, with a mix of old and new plus a strong community vibe |
| Downtown Durham | West Loop | Bustling urban areas with a strong focus on food and arts |
| Woodcroft | Ravenswood | Quiet, family-friendly with a blend of natural beauty and convenience |
| American Tobacco District | Fulton Market | Both are renovated industrial areas turned into trendy spots |
| Hope Valley | Hyde Park | Historic with a mix of academia and upscale living |
| Rockwood | Logan Square | Both boast a unique mix of arts, culture, and dining options |
| Brightleaf | River North | Known for nightlife, fine dining, and artistic flair |
| Southpoint | South Loop | Both are shopping havens with easy access to downtown |
| Duke Park | Garfield Park | Both have expansive parks and are experiencing revitalization |
For those familiar with the cozy yet vibrant atmosphere of Trinity Park, with its historic homes nestled among lush greenery, you'll find a similar charm in Chicago's Lincoln Park. Boasting both the expansive Lincoln Park itself and attractions like the Lincoln Park Zoo, it's an area that combines natural beauty with urban amenities. Meanwhile, Wicker Park offers a resemblance to Old West Durham, with its blend of historic architecture and a hip, artistic community vibe. Full of unique boutiques, buzzing coffee shops like The Wormhole Coffee, and vibrant nightlife, it mirrors Old West Durham’s eclectic spirit. Those moving from Durham’s American Tobacco District, known for its innovative reuse of industrial spaces for entertainment and dining, will appreciate Fulton Market’s similar transformation into a trendy district filled with chic eateries like The Publican and avant-garde art galleries.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Chicago
Moving from Durham, NC to Chicago, IL can be a significant change, with both upsides and downsides to consider. This guide is designed to give you an honest reflection on the good and bad attributes of relocating from Durham to Chicago by comparing the pros and cons through detailed charts. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your new life in the Windy City.
Durham, NC- Smaller city vibe
- Milder winters
- Less diverse cuisine
- Fewer cultural institutions
- Limited public transit
Chicago, IL- Larger, vibrant city
- Dynamic seasons
- World-class dining
- Rich cultural scene
- Extensive public transit
Chicago, IL- More impersonal
- Higher cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Less green space
- Busier downtown
Durham, NC- Close-knit community
- Lower cost of living
- Easier traffic
- Abundance of nature
- Quaint downtown
While the move from Durham to Chicago brings about significant changes, each city has its unique charm and downsides. Chicago's renowned dining scene includes institutions like Girl & the Goat and The Auditorium Theatre, providing you with an endless array of cultural experiences compared to the quieter, more laid-back vibe of Durham's DPAC or Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Although you might miss the milder winters and close-knit community of Durham, Chicago's extensive public transit system, including the 'L' trains, makes exploring the city's diverse neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Hyde Park, both easier and more accessible. The transition might take some adjustment, but the rich, dynamic seasons and world-class amenities of Chicago offer a vibrant new landscape to call home.
Durham vs. Chicago Food Guide
Food deeply impacts the local culture and daily life of a region. Understanding the culinary landscape is key to feeling at home in a new city. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Durham & Chicago to help you familiarize yourself with the food scene you're moving into.
| Durham | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | North Carolina BBQ | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Food Truck Tacos | Chicago-Style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit BBQ | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Chicago, you're moving into a city with a robust and diverse food scene. The legendary deep-dish pizza, found at iconic spots like Giordano's, is just the beginning. For meat lovers, the Italian beef sandwich reigns supreme, best enjoyed at local favorites that dot the city. Chicago's food culture thrives on every street corner; from the all-American Chicago-style hot dog to innovative vegan dishes like seitan wings, there's something for everyone. Neighborhoods like Wicker Park and The Loop are hotspots for food trucks and cutting-edge restaurants, reflecting the city's high ratings in foodie culture and vegan-friendliness. Whether you're exploring the famed Alinea for a fine dining experience or grabbing a quick bite from a food truck, Chicago's culinary world is sure to impress.
Durham vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a daunting task, especially when it means leaving behind your favorite local eateries. But fear not! This restaurant comparison between Durham and Chicago is designed to help you find new culinary delights in your new city, making anywhere feel like home. By using your favorite Durham restaurants as a guide, we'll match you with similar spots in Chicago.
| Durham | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Mateo Bar de Tapas | Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! | Authentic tapas and lively atmosphere |
| Pizzeria Toro | Spacca Napoli Pizzeria | Neapolitan pizzas with a wood-fired touch |
| Bull City Burger and Brewery | Au Cheval | Elevated burgers that are renowned citywide |
| Dame’s Chicken & Waffles | Honey Butter Fried Chicken | Crispy chicken with a unique sweet twist |
| The Parlour | Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams | Inventive flavors and quality ingredients |
| M Sushi | Yuzu Sushi & Robata Grill | Fresh and innovative sushi options |
| NanaTaco | Big Star | Tacos with a modern twist and an energetic vibe |
| Foster’s Market | Dove’s Luncheonette | Homestyle cooking with a diner feel |
| Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten | Café Selmarie | European-inspired bakery and cafe with a cozy vibe |
| Toast | The Bongo Room | Creative breakfasts and brunches, perfect for foodies |
For those who cherish a vibrant food scene, Chicago presents exciting parallels to Durham's beloved eateries. At Café Ba-Ba-Reeba!, you'll immerse yourself in a Spanish ambiance reminiscent of Mateo Bar de Tapas, but with Chicago's unique flair. If Pizzeria Toro was your go-to in Durham, Spacca Napoli Pizzeria in Chicago will not disappoint with its authentic Neapolitan pizzas, closely mirroring the quality and passion for pizza. Should you miss the unique fusion of Dame’s Chicken & Waffles, Honey Butter Fried Chicken in Chicago offers a delightful twist on comfort food with its signature sweet and savory combinations. And for those ice cream aficionados, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams in Chicago is akin to The Parlour in Durham, offering exceptional quality and inventive flavors that make dessert exciting again.
Ready to start your move?
Durham vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial element of any move. Understanding how housing options compare between your current city and your new one can significantly impact your decision-making. This comparison emphasizes Durham, NC to Chicago, IL highlighting cost, architectural styles, and urban lifestyle , among others, to give you a comprehensive view of what to expect.
| Comparison | Durham | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Modern, Chicago Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, quiet neighborhoods | Lake views, proximity to public transportation |
While evaluating the relocation from Durham, NC to Chicago, IL, you'll notice significant differences in housing and lifestyle. For example, Chicago's median home price is slightly lower, but the city offers higher urban lifestyle scores, indicating a more vibrant city life with better access to amenities and public transportation. The typical architectural styles also differ, reflecting the unique character of each city. Durham homes often feature Colonial or Craftsman styles with spacious backyards, ideal for those looking for a more traditional and quiet neighborhood. On the other hand, Chicago’s famous bungalows and modern high-rises offer stunning lake views and are well-suited for those seeking a dynamic urban experience with easier access to work, entertainment, and public transit options like the Chicago Transit Authority.
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.
Durham vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Durham, NC to Chicago, IL, understanding how the weather will change is crucial. Comparing weather between Durham and Chicago helps anticipate adjustments you'll need in your daily life and wardrobe. This comparison aims to prepare you for the weather differences you are about to experience.
Durham, NC
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Durham, NC
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Durham | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, severe storms | Snowstorms, extreme cold |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Durham to Chicago, you'll find yourself saying goodbye to the familiar high humidity and mild winters of North Carolina, welcoming instead the iconic, albeit colder, Chicago seasons. Chicago experiences more drastic seasonal changes, with colder winters and a significant increase in annual snowfall. This marks a considerable adaptation from Durham's relatively mild climate, especially during winter. Additionally, while both cities enjoy a substantial number of sunny days, Chicago offers fewer overall, meaning you might find winter a bit greyer than you're used to. Also, be prepared for the windy city's air quality, which may fluctuate more than Durham's generally good conditions.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to Chicago
When you're moving from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. It's important to see how the cost of living and financial factors in Durham compare with those in Chicago, ensuring you're prepared for your new life.
| Comparison | Durham | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $71,343 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.78 | 2.10 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Technology | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Lower | Higher |
When considering a move from Durham to Chicago, it's crucial to note the higher cost of living and property tax rates in Chicago. However, Chicago's bustling finance, manufacturing, and IT sectors may offer enhanced career opportunities compared to Durham's focus on education, health services, and technology. The income difference, coupled with the sales tax and state income tax considerations, may influence your budgeting. Furthermore, understanding the socioeconomic dynamics, such as affluence, poverty, and homelessness levels, will help in setting realistic expectations for your new environment.
Durham vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Durham, NC, to Chicago, IL, understanding the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Durham & Chicago can provide a crucial insight into the community vibe you’re transitioning into. This quick snapshot aims to give you a clear view of what to expect in terms of political and religious environments.
| Durham | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on social justice, education | Historic focus on labor, now also on social justice, climate change |
| Religion | Christian, with a significant presence of other religions | Largely Christian, diverse religious representation including Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist communities |
While both Durham and Chicago are liberal cities with Democratic leanings, the specific local politics and issues each city focuses on can vary. Durham has a particular emphasis on social justice initiatives and education reforms, reflecting the city’s academic and progressive community. In comparison, Chicago's political scene has been historically shaped by its labor roots, although in recent years it has broadened to include strong movements towards social justice and environmental sustainability. The religious landscape in both cities is predominantly Christian, but Chicago boasts a more diverse representation of faiths, including significant Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of religious life. This diversity enriches the cultural and social fabric of Chicago, offering new residents a broad array of communities and perspectives to engage with.
Durham vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Durham, NC, to Chicago, IL, it's critical to understand the differences between the everyday commute and traffic you'll face. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Durham & Chicago provides insight into what to expect and how to best navigate your new city.
| Comparison | Durham | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Yes, especially in the city center |
While Durham offers a relatively relaxed commute with an average time of 22 minutes and lower levels of traffic congestion, Chicago's bustling urban environment extends the average commute to 34 minutes amidst higher traffic volumes. The Windy City, however, boasts a more robust public transportation system, making it easier to live without a car, particularly in densely populated areas. In contrast, getting around Durham without a vehicle can be feasible, yet it might prove to be inconvenient at times. Understanding these dynamics will help in planning your commutes more effectively and exploring the cities' different lifestyles and opportunities.
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