Moving from Jersey City to Chicago?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Jersey City to Chicago Movers

Moving from Jersey City, the vibrant urban heartbeat of New Jersey, to Chicago, affectionately known as the Windy City, symbolizes not just a change in scenery but a thrilling new chapter in your life. While you're leaving behind the quick-paced, diverse cultures of Jersey City for Chicago's iconic skyline, deep-dish pizza, and rich jazz history, you're embarking on an adventure that promises new experiences and opportunities. Given the distance and complexity of this move, it's crucial to secure trusted and reliable professional movers; that's where we come in, ensuring your belongings arrive safely in your new home, making this transition as smooth as possible.

New Jersey iconArrow iconIllinois icon
U-turn icon

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

5 Best Jersey City to Chicago Movers

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

#1
JP Urban Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 4,145+ data points

Brooklyn, NY
Local NYC Moving, Long Distance Moving, Office Moving, Business Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 2096754 Verify

About JP Urban Moving

JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to give you the best custo...Read More >>

top new york city 2024 jp urban moving image
top 10 ranked movers in new york city 2023 jp urban moving image
top 10 ranked movers in new york city 2022 jp urban moving image
#2
A
Exceptional

based on 1,360+ data points

Brooklyn, NY
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Cross-country moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3579996 Verify

About Avant-Garde Moving & Storage

Based in Brooklyn, Avant-Garde Moving & Storage has provided unique and innovative moving solutions for over 10 years. As a locally owne...Read More >>

top 10 new york city 2024 avant garde moving storage image
top 10 ranked movers in beach haven 2023 avant garde moving storage image
#3
Konstantly Moving NYC LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 776+ data points

New York, NY
Local moving, Long distance moving, Packing, unpacking, & crating See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3161292 Verify

About Konstantly Moving NYC LLC

Konstantly Moving NYC LLC, established in 2020, is a moving company with over 17 years of industry experience. Based in New York, Konstantly...Read More >>

top 10 new york city 2024 konstantly moving nyc llc image
#4
606 Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,152+ data points

Chicago, IL
Residential Movers, Commercial Movers, Packing & Unpacking Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

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 >>

top 10 chicago 2024 606 movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in kankakee 2023 606 movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in park forest 2022 606 movers inc image
#5
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 9/10/2024)

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 >>

top 10 waukegan 2024 move tastic image
top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top 3 ranked movers in chicago 2023 move tastic image

Relocating from Jersey City to Chicago Neighborhood Guide

Transitioning to a new city can be daunting, especially when leaving behind familiar comforts. To ease this transition, consider this comparison of the local neighborhoods between Jersey City, NJ & Chicago, IL. By finding a Chicago neighborhood reminiscent of your favorite spot in Jersey City, you can quickly feel at home in the Windy City.

Jersey CityChicago
Downtown Jersey CityLoop

Vibrant, bustling business area

Journal SquareLogan Square

Diverse, creative community

Hamilton ParkLincoln Park

Green spaces, family-friendly

Paulus HookOld Town

Historic, waterfront charm

GreenvillePilsen

Rich cultural heritage, arts scene

Liberty State Park areaGrant Park

Expansive parks, major attractions

The HeightsWicker Park

Hip, with a mix of cultures

The WaterfrontLakeview

Stunning views, lively community

Bergen-LafayetteHyde Park

Historic, with an academic vibe

West SideWest Loop

Trendy restaurants, urban feel

Residents moving from Jersey City's Hamilton Park, known for its picturesque green spaces and community vibe, will find a welcoming similarity in Chicago's Lincoln Park. This area isn't just about the expansive Lincoln Park itself; it also boasts a zoo, the Lincoln Park Conservatory, and a variety of family-friendly cafes and shops lining its streets. If the historic waterfront charm of Paulus Hook captured your heart, Chicago's Old Town, with its quaint buildings and close proximity to the lake, offers a similar allure. Here, you can explore the legendary Second City comedy club and dine at local favorites like The Old Town Ale House. For those drawn to the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of Downtown Jersey City, The Loop in Chicago mirrors that dynamic spirit with its iconic theaters, art installations, and state-of-the-art parks, like Millennium Park, making it an exciting hub for new Chicagoans.

Things To Do background image

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 Jersey City to Chicago

Moving from one city to another always comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison seeks to offer an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Jersey City, NJ to Chicago, IL. By evaluating both sides of the coin, you can make a well-informed decision about your big move.

CONs
PROs
Jersey City, NJ iconJersey City, NJ
  • Higher living cost
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less diverse food scene
  • Scarce green spaces
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • More affordable living
  • Bigger city experience
  • World-class cuisine
  • Abundant parks and lakes
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Far from NYC
  • Less intimate neighborhoods
  • Fewer finance job opportunities
  • Busier, louder streets
Jersey City, NJ iconJersey City, NJ
  • Proximity to NYC
  • Smaller, close-knit communities
  • Easy access to finance jobs
  • Quieter streets

Considering the move from Jersey City to Chicago brings several features into sharp relief. Chicago's renowned food scene, for instance, features a myriad of world-class restaurants such as Alinea and Giordano's for deep-dish pizza lovers, offering a much broader culinary landscape than Jersey City. Similarly, Chicago's ample parks and waterfronts, including the likes of Millennium Park and the Lakefront Trail, provide expansive green spaces for outdoor activities—a stark contrast to the more limited options in Jersey City. While you might miss the intimate neighborhoods and proximity to NYC that Jersey City offers, Chicago's vibrant city experience, from bustling neighborhoods like Wicker Park to cultural institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago, presents a compelling allure that is hard to overlook.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Jersey City to Chicago

Food is not just about sustenance; it's a vibrant part of local culture and the daily living experience. To enrich your relocation journey, this guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Jersey City & Chicago . By reviewing the unique flavors, popular dishes, and signature restaurants each city boasts, you'll gain a tastier insight into your future home.

Jersey CityChicago

Most iconic local food item

Taylor Ham (Pork Roll)Deep Dish Pizza

Most popular meat dish

Italian Hot DogsItalian Beef Sandwich

Most popular street food item

Food Trucks VarietyChicago-style Hot Dog

Most popular vegan food

Vegan BurgersSeitan Wings

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Razza Pizza Artigianale
  • 99 Ranch Market
  • The Kitchen Step
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Au Cheval
  • Alinea

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

76

Abundance of Food Trucks

87

Foodie Scene

99

Vegan Friendly

88

In Chicago, the local cuisine is a reflection of its rich culinary heritage with deep-rooted traditions and a modern twist. The city's iconic deep-dish pizza, with its thick crust and inverted layering of cheese and tomato sauce, can be best experienced in renowned establishments like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria. For those seeking innovative dining experiences, Alinea offers a contemporary take on fine dining, constantly ranking as one of the best restaurants worldwide. Chicago's food scene is further enriched by its street foods, especially its unique Chicago-style hot dog, readily available in various neighborhoods, offering a taste of the city's gastronomic diversity. Whether exploring the bustling streets of The Loop or the historic vibes of the Gold Coast, food lovers will find themselves amidst a plethora of flavors and culinary experiments in Chicago.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Jersey City to Chicago

When it comes to feeling at home in your new city, discovering the perfect dining spots is key. This guide compares top restaurants in Jersey City to those in Chicago , helping you find your next favorite eatery by drawing parallels with ones you already love. Whether you crave haute cuisine, a casual nibble, or a taste of local delicacies, this comparison will make your culinary transition seamless and delicious.

Razza Pizza ArtigianalePizzeria Bebu

Artisanal thin-crust pizzas with a focus on local ingredients

Marco & PepeLongman & Eagle

Inventive American fare in a gastropub setting

Liberty House RestaurantThe Signature Room at the 95th

Elegant dining with panoramic city views

PortaAvec

A Mediterranean and Midwestern influenced menu in a chic, communal setting

Taqueria DowntownBig Star

A lively spot for tacos and whiskey in a vibrant setting

BattelloNorth Pond

Seasonally inspired New American cuisine in a scenic park setting

Edward's SteakhouseGibsons Bar & Steakhouse

Renowned for its hearty steaks and upscale ambiance

Mathews Food and DrinkThe Publican

Emphasizes farm-to-table ingredients in an eclectic, beer-focused menu

Latham HouseGirl & The Goat

Innovative small plates in a trendy atmosphere

Hamilton PorkSmoque BBQ

A passion for authentic smoked meats and a local favorite

Diving deeper into our comparison, dining at Razza Pizza Artigianale in Jersey City likely means you're a fan of meticulously crafted pizzas. Pizzeria Bebu in Chicago will not disappoint, offering a similar dedication to quality and local sourcing for their thin-crust delights. On the more upscale end, a night out at Liberty House Restaurant is all about upscale dining with stunning views, a vibe that you'll find mirrored at The Signature Room at the 95th in Chicago, where the dining experience is elevated—quite literally—to new heights against the city's skyline. For those who enjoy the atmospheric blend of rustic and contemporary in their dining spaces, akin to that of Battello, North Pond offers an unmatched blend of seasonal American cuisine nestled within a tranquil park setting. This guide aims to not just match your culinary preferences but to enrich your dining experiences as you settle into Chicago.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Jersey City to Chicago

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of Jersey City, NJ and Chicago, IL is crucial. Real estate choices impact your lifestyle and budget. Let’s dive into how these two cities measure up in terms of housing, to help you make an informed decision.

In both Jersey City and Chicago, housing costs and styles play a significant role in defining the living experience. Jersey City boasts a remarkable view of Manhattan, a key selling point often mentioned in real estate listings, alongside its modern mixed with historical architecture. The city is highly walkable, making it appealing for those who enjoy strolling through diverse neighborhoods. Chicago, on the other hand, is renowned for its iconic architectural styles, from brick bungalows to towering skyscrapers, providing a wide range of housing options. The bikeability score of Chicago edges out that of Jersey City, inviting those with a love for cycling to explore its expansive bike lanes and picturesque waterfront. Both cities offer vibrant urban lifestyles, though they differ significantly in housing costs, with Chicago presenting a more affordable option for both renters and buyers.

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.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Jersey City to Chicago

Moving from one city to another means adapting to new weather patterns. If you're considering relocating from Jersey City, NJ to Chicago, IL, understanding how the climate differs between these locations is critical. This comparison highlights key weather aspects to help you prepare for your move.

Summer icon
85°F / 69°F

Jersey City, NJ

84°F / 68°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
39°F / 26°F

Jersey City, NJ

31°F / 18°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47

Jersey City, NJ

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
25

Jersey City, NJ

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Jersey City to Chicago, prepare for colder winters with more snow, as Chicago averages 11 more inches of snow annually. However, both cities enjoy relatively similar summer temperatures. You might notice the difference in the number of sunny days, with Jersey City having about 21 more days of sunshine per year than Chicago. Additionally, while both cities have their share of natural disasters, Chicago’s are notably different, with a higher risk of blizzards and tornadoes, compared to the storms and potential flooding you're used to in Jersey City. Understanding these differences can help you adjust more quickly to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

When transitioning from Jersey City, NJ to Chicago, IL, it's essential to scrutinize the financial landscape you're moving into. This comparison aims to illuminate how the cost of living , income taxes , and housing affordability in Jersey City and Chicago will affect your wallet. Understanding these differences ensures you're well-prepared for your new setting.

While the average household income in Jersey City outweighs that of Chicago, it's crucial to note that New Jersey's varying state income tax could take a larger bite out of your paycheck compared to Illinois' flat rate. However, the cost of living index proves life in Chicago to be more affordable, potentially compensating for the lower average income. Despite this difference, Chicago's higher sales and property taxes should prompt you to account for greater expenses in these areas. Both cities showcase diverse top industries, highlighting opportunities for different career paths. Understanding these nuances will help tailor your financial expectations and preparations for your move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Jersey City, NJ and Chicago, IL

Are you considering moving from Jersey City, NJ, to Chicago, IL? Here's a comparison of the politics and religious makeup of Jersey City & Chicago to give you a quick snapshot of the communities you'll be joining. It's helpful to understand the local political leanings, how politics play out on a local level, and the religious landscape of your new home.

Jersey CityChicago

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticStrong Democratic

Local Politics

Moderate engagementHigh engagement

Religion

Diverse, with a significant Catholic populationDiverse, with a significant Catholic and Protestant population

In both Jersey City and Chicago, the political landscape is dominantly Democratic, though Chicago tends to have a stronger Democratic leaning and more politically engaged population. This might influence your experience with local policies, community projects, and the overall social atmosphere. On the religious front, both cities boast diversity, though Jersey City has a notably significant Catholic base. Meanwhile, Chicago houses a vibrant mix of Catholic and Protestant communities, reflecting its wider array of religious institutions and active faith-based organizations. Moving between these cities, you'll find a rich, albeit differing, tapestry of political and religious life shaping the community.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Jersey City to Chicago

When considering a move from Jersey City, NJ to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to understand the differences between the daily commute and traffic, as well as transportation options between Jersey City & Chicago. This comparison aims to ease your transition and help you adjust to your new city's rhythm of life.

Jersey CityChicago
3534

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

76

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

89

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

YesYes

Can you get by without car?

While Jersey City and Chicago have similar average commute times, Chicago edges out slightly in terms of less traffic congestion and a slightly higher availability of public transit. This reinforces the idea that you can comfortably live in either city without a car, thanks to extensive public transportation networks. In Jersey City, the PATH train and NJ Transit buses form the backbone of public transit, facilitating easy commutes into Manhattan and throughout New Jersey. Chicago’s CTA buses and 'L' trains similarly offer comprehensive coverage, connecting diverse neighborhoods and major attractions efficiently. Understanding these dynamics can significantly ease your adjustment to your new city, not just in navigating your daily commute but also in exploring all that your new home has to offer.

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

Popular Jersey City, NJ to Illinois Moving Routes