Best Cincinnati to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the heart of the Midwest, Cincinnati, to the bustling streets of Chicago is an adventure ripe with opportunity and excitement. You're trading the cozy "Queen City" with its chili and river views for the "Windy City," renowned for its deep-dish pizzas, towering skyscrapers, and vibrant neighborhoods. In this significant life change, ensuring you're supported by reliable and trusted professional movers is crucial for a stress-free transition. Let us help you navigate this journey with our carefully curated list of the best movers, ensuring your move is as smooth and efficient as the professionals we recommend.
Best Cincinnati to Chicago Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Move-tastic! | 9.35 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Sebastian Moving SW Ohio | 9.25 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Robinson Relocations | 9.23 | A | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Manifest Shipping Llc | 9.19 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Cincinnati guide.
5 Best Cincinnati to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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 Sebastian Moving SW Ohio
Let the experts at Sebastian Moving SW Ohio take care of your next home or office move. This top-rated moving company has a stellar reputati...Read More >>
Services
- Full Service Moves in South West Ohio
- Packing and Unpacking
- Loading & Unloading
This listing has been claimed by Robinson RelocationsAbout Robinson Relocations
Robinson Relocations is a professional moving company providing services in Cincinnati, OH, and Tampa, FL, with a priority to exceed clients...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
About Manifest Shipping Llc
Manifest Shipping LLC, based in Trenton, Ohio, is a trusted residential and commercial moving company founded in 2017. Serving central and s...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance 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.
Cincinnati vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel like learning a foreign language. To ease this transition, this guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Cincinnati, OH & Chicago, IL . By highlighting the similarities between neighborhoods in your current and future cities, you can find your next perfect community with confidence.
| Cincinnati | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Over-the-Rhine | Wicker Park | Vibrant nightlife, historic architecture |
| Hyde Park | Lincoln Park | Upscale, family-friendly with parks |
| Mount Adams | Bucktown | Artistic, with a blend of old and new homes |
| Clifton | Hyde Park, Chicago | Diverse, with a university presence |
| Mount Lookout | Lakeview | Bustling, with a mix of singles and families |
| Oakley | Andersonville | Quaint shops, strong sense of community |
| East Walnut Hills | Logan Square | Trendy, with beautiful boulevards |
| The Banks | River North | Upscale dining, arts, and entertainment |
| Northside | Pilsen | Rich in culture, with a thriving arts scene |
| Downtown Cincinnati | The Loop | Heart of the city, with skyscrapers and cultural landmarks |
If you're drawn to the vibrant nightlife and historic charm of Over-the-Rhine, Wicker Park in Chicago offers a similar experience with its own unique flair, featuring renowned spots like the Dove's Luncheonette. For those who enjoy the upscale and peaceful vibe of Hyde Park in Cincinnati, Lincoln Park in Chicago provides a similarly refined atmosphere, complete with access to green spaces like the Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory. Lovers of the artsy and eclectic feel of Mount Adams will find a kindred spirit in Bucktown, where the blend of modern and historic homes echoes Cincinnati’s beloved hilltop neighborhood. Lastly, Clifton’s diverse and university-centric vibe is mirrored by Hyde Park in Chicago, home to the University of Chicago and landmarks such as the Museum of Science and Industry, ensuring that intellectual and cultural stimulation is never far away.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Cincinnati to Chicago
Moving from one city to another brings a mix of emotions and practicalities to the forefront of your life. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on moving from Cincinnati, OH to Chicago, IL, breaking down the pros and cons of such a relocation. The comparison charts are designed to help you weigh both the advantages and disadvantages, guiding you towards making an informed decision about your move.
Cincinnati, OH- Smaller city vibe
- Lesser nightlife options
- Lower job opportunities
- Fewer cultural activities
Chicago, IL- Larger urban area
- Vibrant nightlife
- Greater employment options
- Rich cultural scene
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- Denser populations
- More impersonal
- Heavier traffic
Cincinnati, OH- Lower cost of living
- Quaint neighborhoods
- Close-knit communities
- Easier traffic navigation
When considering a move from Cincinnati to Chicago, it's essential to look beyond the basic pros and cons to understand the quality of life each city offers. For instance, while Chicago's rich cultural scene includes world-renowned institutions like The Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum, the smaller scale of Cincinnati allows for unique, intimate experiences at places like the Cincinnati Art Museum or enjoying the serene beauty of Eden Park. Yet, Chicago's vast culinary landscape, including the iconic Lou Malnati's for deep-dish pizza and the bustling Randolph Street Market for unique finds and eclectic foods, can be a gourmet's delight. Urban parks in Chicago, such as Millennium Park and Lincoln Park, offer sprawling green spaces amidst the urban landscape, contrasting with the smaller, more scattered parks in Cincinnati. The juxtaposition between Cincinnati's more laid-back vibe and Chicago's bustling energy could be precisely what you're looking for in your next chapter.
Cincinnati vs. Chicago Food Guide
Understanding the local food scene is crucial when moving to a new city as it's a vibrant expression of local culture. In this guide, we will compare the local cuisine between Cincinnati & Chicago , providing an insight into what culinary delights await you in your new home.
| Cincinnati | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cincinnati Chili | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Goetta | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Cheese Coney | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Cincinnati Chili | Vegan Deep Dish Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When diving into local cuisines, Cincinnati and Chicago offer distinct flavors unique to their heritage. Cincinnati's love for its unique chili served over spaghetti or hot dogs (Cheese Coneys) can be experienced in its iconic restaurants like Skyline Chili. In contrast, Chicago is world-renowned for its deep-dish pizza, a must-try at places like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria. Chicago's food scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a robust array of food trucks in neighborhoods like Wicker Park and The Loop, signaling a more pronounced foodie culture compared to Cincinnati. Meanwhile, both cities cater to health-minded and vegan diners, with innovations like vegan Cincinnati chili and vegan deep dish pizza offering delicious alternatives to classic dishes. Whether indulging in local favorites or seeking health-conscious options, the move from Cincinnati to Chicago promises an exciting culinary journey.
Cincinnati vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Food is vital in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to help you find your new favorite eateries in Chicago, highlighting parallels to beloved spots in Cincinnati, illustrating the gastronomic journey ahead.
| Cincinnati | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Sotto | Osteria Langhe | Refined Italian dining with a focus on Piedmontese cuisine, reminiscent of Sotto's intimate atmosphere and dedication to authentic flavors. |
| Taste of Belgium | Café Marie-Jeanne | Rustic, European vibe offering hearty Belgian-inspired dishes and a wide selection of beers, aligning with the cozy and casual essence of Taste of Belgium. |
| Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse | Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | Luxurious dining experience with a focus on high-quality steaks and service, echoing Jeff Ruby's prestige and attention to culinary detail. |
| Maplewood Kitchen and Bar | Beatrix | Modern, all-day dining cafe offering a variety of healthy options and comfort food, capturing Maplewood's fresh, West Coast-inspired ethos. |
| Gomez Salsa | BIG & little’s | Casual spot famous for its tacos, seafood, and street food, mirroring Gomez Salsa's laid-back atmosphere and creative twist on classic taco fare. |
| Findlay Market | Eataly | Although not a direct match, Eataly offers an expansive marketplace experience with a focus on Italian cuisine, reminiscent of the diverse and lively atmosphere at Findlay Market. |
| The Eagle | Honey Butter Fried Chicken | Offering comfort food with an emphasis on ethically sourced ingredients, it shares The Eagle's commitment to high-quality, delicious fried chicken. |
| Over-The-Rhine (Various Restaurants) | West Loop (Various Restaurants) | This area's dynamic dining scene offers a wealth of options ranging from high-end to street food, similar to the vibrant, eclectic mix in Over-The-Rhine. |
| Montgomery Inn | Smoque BBQ | With a focus on traditional barbecue techniques and flavors, Smoque echoes Montgomery Inn's reputed ribs and welcoming, family-friendly vibe. |
| Graeter's Ice Cream | Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams | Both boast homemade, rich ice cream varieties and unique flavors, maintaining a dedication to quality and tradition in every scoop. |
When your taste buds crave something familiar yet new, Chicago's dining scene doesn't disappoint. For instance, Osteria Langhe delivers an experience akin to Sotto's, allowing patrons to savor Piedmontese dishes that encapsulate the spirit of Italian dining in a setting reminiscent of Cincinnati's charm. Meanwhile, those missing the homestyle flavors of The Eagle might find solace in Honey Butter Fried Chicken's commitment to quality and ethically sourced ingredients. In essence, each Chicago establishment listed not only promises a taste of home but also invites you to explore the rich culinary tapestry of your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Cincinnati vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial factor when planning a move. It's vital to understand how Cincinnati and Chicago compare in this regard. This comparison will shed light on the housing differences between Cincinnati, OH, and Chicago, IL, highlighting essential factors like cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Cincinnati | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Historic Victorian | Modern and Greystone |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, family-friendly | Lake views, proximity to public transit |
Moving from Cincinnati to Chicago, you'll find significant differences in housing dynamics and living experiences. The higher cost of living in Chicago reflects in its median home prices and rent, but this comes with the perks of an urban lifestyle that's rated significantly higher than in Cincinnati. Chicago's architecture is varied, with both modern designs and historic greystones, compared to Cincinnati's predominantly historic Victorian homes. Those who prioritize a walking and biking lifestyle will find Chicago's infrastructure more supportive. Additionally, the lure of Chicago’s real estate often includes lake views and easy access to an extensive public transit system, contrasting Cincinnati’s emphasis on spacious backyards and family-friendly environments.
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.
Cincinnati vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
Understanding how the weather will vary when moving from one city to another is essential for adapting to your new environment. This comparison offers insights into weather variations between Cincinnati and Chicago , providing an essential guide for those planning to relocate. By knowing what to expect, you can prepare accordingly for the lifestyle changes that come with different climate conditions.
Cincinnati, OH
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Cincinnati, OH
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Cincinnati, OH
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Cincinnati, OH
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Cincinnati | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Floods | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Cincinnati to Chicago, you'll find Chicago experiencing colder winters with more snow, beneficial for winter sports enthusiasts but it also means more shoveling. Despite the colder winters, Chicago enjoys more days of sunshine annually, which can positively affect mood and vitamin D intake. Both cities share similar average humidity and top seasonal allergies, which means if you're accustomed to Cincinnati's climate, Chicago's humidity and allergen levels shouldn't be too much of a shock. However, the difference in air quality and the increased annual snowfall in Chicago are factors to prepare for, suggesting a need for potentially investing in better winter gear and being ready for more frequent air quality checks.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Cincinnati to Chicago
Moving from one city to another impacts your finances in various ways. Understand the cost of living and financial differences between Cincinnati and Chicago to better prepare for your transition.
| Comparison | Cincinnati | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $42,733 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 93.8 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 2.765 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.56 | 2.10 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.8 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Retail, Healthcare | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Significant |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Substantial |
When moving from Cincinnati to Chicago, you'll find a significant difference in the cost of living, with Chicago being notably more expensive across multiple indexes. This is particularly true for housing, underscored by higher average property and sales tax rates in Chicago. However, the higher average household income in Chicago could help mitigate some of these financial pressures. The job market also shifts, with Chicago boasting a stronger presence in finance and information technology compared to Cincinnati's manufacturing and healthcare focus. These changes represent both challenges and opportunities, making financial planning an essential part of your move.
Cincinnati vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Cincinnati, OH to Chicago, IL, understanding the local dynamics of your new home is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, giving you insight into the community you're about to join. Specifically, this is a comparison of the politics between Cincinnati & Chicago and how the religious landscape shapes each city.
| Cincinnati | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate liberal policies | Progressive liberal policies |
| Religion | Diverse, with a strong Catholic presence | Highly diverse, with a significant Catholic base |
In both Cincinnati and Chicago, the Democratic Party holds sway, though Chicago is known for its more pronounced progressive leanings. This is reflected not just in election outcomes but also in the policies and programs implemented at the local level. Religion plays an important role in shaping the cultural and social landscape in both cities. While Cincinnati has a deeply rooted Catholic community, evident in its many churches and Catholic-founded institutions, Chicago's religious tapestry is broader, embodying a wide range of faiths and denominations, contributing to its celebrated diversity. Understanding these nuances will help you seamlessly integrate into your new community.
Cincinnati vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Cincinnati, OH to Chicago, IL involves adapting to new living conditions, and understanding the daily commute is crucial. This comparison is aimed at helping you grasp the differences in traffic and transportation options between Cincinnati & Chicago, setting expectations for your new urban life.
| Comparison | Cincinnati | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24.4 | 34.8 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Yes, easier |
In Chicago, the average commute time is significantly longer than in Cincinnati, reflecting the city's larger size and more complex infrastructure. Despite this, Chicago's higher public transit score indicates a more efficient and available transit system. It's not just about having more buses or trains, but about a network that is more integrated into the city's fabric, making it easier to navigate without a car. This is a testament to Chicago's investment in public transit options, something you'll appreciate when living in such a bustling metropolis. Meanwhile, Cincinnati's lower traffic congestion score suggests easier driving conditions, though its public transit system may not cater as effectively to those without a vehicle.
