Best Columbus to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the bustling heart of Ohio to the Windy City is an adventure brimming with opportunity and excitement. You're leaving behind Columbus's friendly vibes and entering Chicago's vibrant mix of deep-dish pizza, towering skyscrapers, and diverse neighborhoods. For such a significant journey, it's crucial to entrust your transition to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your belongings arrive in your new city just as ready for the adventure as you are.
Best Columbus to Chicago Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Men Moving LLC | 9.56 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Move-tastic! | 9.35 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Manifest Shipping Llc | 9.19 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Integrity Moving and Storage | 8.98 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Columbus guide.
5 Best Columbus to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Blue Men Moving LLC
With locations in Seville and Akron, Blue Men Moving started its operations in 2011 with a mission of providing a superior moving experience...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
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 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
About Integrity Moving and Storage
With over three decades of expertise and a small-town customer-first approach, Integrity Moving and Storage offers exceptional service in Ce...Read More >>
Services
- Long-Distance Moving
- Residential Moving
- Piano 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.
Columbus vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
When moving to a new city, it can be comforting to find a neighborhood that feels like home. This guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Columbus, OH & Chicago, IL , aiming to help you familiarize yourself with Chicago by using Columbus as your baseline. Whether you're seeking vibrant nightlife, serene parks, or artistic hubs, we've matched up top Columbus neighborhoods with their Chicago counterparts based on their vibes and offerings.
| Columbus | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Short North | Wicker Park | Trendy, artsy vibe with eclectic shops |
| German Village | Lincoln Square | Historic, charming architecture |
| Clintonville | Andersonville | Strong community feel, local businesses |
| Grandview Heights | West Loop | Lively with a mix of dining and entertainment |
| Bexley | Hyde Park | Academic atmosphere near a major university |
| Victorian Village | Old Town | Historic homes and streetscapes |
| The Brewery District | Fulton Market | Industrial chic with breweries and eateries |
| Upper Arlington | Gold Coast | Upscale, exclusive residential area |
| Italian Village | Little Italy | Rich cultural heritage and cuisine |
| Franklinton | Pilsen | Vibrant arts scene and mural-adorned streets |
In exploring the matched neighborhoods, you'll find that Wicker Park, much like Short North, boasts a blend of art galleries, boutiques, and vibrant nightlife, catering to a young, creative crowd. For a tranquil, historic atmosphere akin to German Village, Lincoln Square offers quaint bookstores, cobblestone streets, and meticulously maintained residences. If the community-oriented, eclectic vibe of Clintonville appeals to you, Andersonville’s welcoming atmosphere, diverse population, and support for locally-owned businesses will make you feel right at home. Not to overlook the comparison between Grandview Heights and West Loop, where the culinary scene is unmatched, offering everything from high-end dining to casual eateries. Each Chicago neighborhood mirrors its Columbus counterpart in unique ways, catering to a variety of lifestyles and preferences. Whether it's the arts, community vibes, or historical charm you're after, Chicago’s neighborhoods offer a myriad of experiences similar to those you cherished in Columbus.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Columbus to Chicago
Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that requires considering both the negatives and positives. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the benefits and drawbacks of relocating from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL , helping you make an informed decision about your move. By comparing the cons to the pros and vice versa, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of what awaits you in the Windy City.
Columbus, OH- Smaller city vibe
- Lower cultural diversity
- Fewer job opportunities
- Less public transit options
- Fewer dining options
Chicago, IL- Larger, dynamic city
- Greater cultural diversity
- More career prospects
- Extensive public transit
- World-class cuisine
Chicago, IL- Higher living costs
- More traffic congestion
- Less personal space
- Complex city layout
- More urbanized
Columbus, OH- Affordable housing
- Lower traffic levels
- Community feel
- Easy navigation
- Access to nature
Moving from Columbus to Chicago offers an exciting transition from a quieter, more community-oriented lifestyle to one that thrives on diversity, culture, and opportunity. In Chicago, you can explore world-renowned culinary delights at local restaurants, expand your career in a city with a thriving job market, and immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of cultural events and communities. However, this comes with the trade-offs of higher living costs and navigating more complex city dynamics. Chicago's distribution of parks, like Millennium Park, and bustling neighborhoods, such as Lincoln Park or Wicker Park, provide a mixture of urban and green spaces, ensuring that there's always something new to discover just around the corner. Whether you're seeking gourmet dining, arts, and entertainment, or enhanced career prospects, Chicago's dynamic environment offers a wealth of opportunities for new residents.
Columbus vs. Chicago Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Columbus & Chicago is crucial for understanding the food scene in both areas. Food is a vibrant aspect of local culture, impacting day-to-day life. Through this comparison, you’ll be better informed about what culinary delights await in your new city.
| Columbus | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Buckeye candy | Deep-dish pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled pork barbecue | Italian beef sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Food truck tacos | Chicago-style hot dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit tacos | Seitan wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Chicago, neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Logan Square buzz with an eclectic food scene where you can indulge in everything from world-renowned deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria to innovative dishes at Alinea, showcasing the city's culinary diversity. For a taste of local street food, a Chicago-style hot dog is a must-try, embodying the city's rich culinary culture. The abundance of vegan options, such as seitan wings, mirrors Chicago's inclusivity and adaptability in food trends, ensuring there's something delicious for every palate.
Columbus vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city can often start with discovering your new favorite spot to dine. This chart aims to ease the transition for someone moving from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL. By comparing Columbus's top restaurants to Chicago's equivalents , we hope to help you find eateries that resonate with your taste and make the Windy City feel more like home.
| Columbus | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Social Rooftop | Cindy's | both offer stunning rooftop views and stylish vibes |
| Northstar Café | LYFE Kitchen | health-focused menus with a commitment to sustainability |
| Thurman Café | Au Cheval | known for their burgers and hearty American cuisine |
| Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams | Scooter's Frozen Custard | a go-to for a sweet treat with a local touch |
| Wolf's Ridge Brewing | Revolution Brewing | both are craft breweries with a strong local following and tasty pub fare |
| Service Bar | The Violet Hour | offering unique cocktails in an intimate setting |
| Hot Chicken Takeover | Harold's Chicken Shack | both iconic for chicken lovers seeking a spicy kick |
| The Pearl | Girl & The Goat | innovative dishes that challenge traditional dining expectations |
| Fox in the Snow Café | Intelligentsia Coffee | both have a strong focus on quality coffee and pastries |
| Katalina's | Yolk | offering a creative take on breakfast and brunch favorites |
Each restaurant on this list has been carefully selected to provide you with a taste of home, even in a new city. For instance, Cindy's in Chicago mirrors the ambiance and views you adored at Lincoln Social Rooftop in Columbus, making for a seamless transition in your rooftop dining experiences. If your Columbus weekends often started with a savory breakfast at Katalina's, you'll find comforting familiarity in the creative dishes served at Yolk in Chicago. Furthermore, for those evenings when only a craft beer will do, Revolution Brewing in Chicago steps up as the perfect counterpart to Wolf's Ridge Brewing, showcasing a wide selection of beers that highlight the best of local brewing. In essence, these comparisons are not just about finding similar restaurants, but about rediscovering the flavors and atmospheres that you’ve cherished, thereby weaving them into the fabric of your new Chicago lifestyle.
Ready to start your move?
Columbus vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly influences your relocation experience. Understanding how Columbus, OH and Chicago, IL compare in terms of housing can make a notable difference. This comparison covers key aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle to aid your move.
| Comparison | Columbus | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Colonial | Prairie, Greystone |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open Floor Plans, Large Yards | Lake Views, Proximity to Public Transit |
When contrasting housing between Columbus and Chicago, several facets stand out. Columbus's housing market generally offers more affordable options, both in purchasing and renting, making it attractive for first-time homebuyers or those seeking larger living spaces without a hefty price tag. The city's preference for Craftsman and Colonial styles reflects a traditional architectural taste. However, for those craving a vibrant urban lifestyle and more walkable neighborhoods, Chicago shines with higher ratings in walkability and urban lifestyle. Chicago's real estate also epitomizes its rich architectural heritage with iconic Prairie and Greystone homes, not to mention the allure of lake views and easy access to public transit, aspects highly prized in listings. Whether your heart leans towards the affordability and traditional charm of Columbus or the bustling urban life and architectural grandeur of Chicago, both cities offer unique lifestyles shaped significantly by their real estate markets.
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.
Columbus vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison will spotlight how the climate and environmental conditions in Columbus and Chicago will affect your daily life and help you prepare for your new home.
Columbus, OH
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Columbus, OH
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Columbus | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Thunderstorms, Tornadoes | Blizzards, Lake-effect snow |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Columbus and Chicago share similarities in summer temperatures, Chicago experiences colder winters, reflecting its famous windy and snowy winters. Chicago also boasts more sunny days annually, which can be a slight advantage for those missing the sun during cold seasons. Notably, Chicago has higher annual snowfall, significant for those not accustomed to heavy snow. Air quality in Columbus tends to be better, a consideration for individuals sensitive to pollution. Both cities share common allergens, with Chicago having an additional challenge of mold due to its location near Lake Michigan. Understanding these differences ensures you are better prepared for the move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Columbus to Chicago
When considering a move from one city to another, grasping the financial differences is crucial to avoid unwanted surprises. This comparison sheds light on how your expenses and financial environment will shift. The cost of living, taxes, and average incomes between Columbus, OH, and Chicago, IL, are pivotal to understanding your potential financial landscape.
| Comparison | Columbus | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,202 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 2.85 to 4.8 | 4.95 (flat) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.76 | 2.12 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Finance | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Notable |
| Homelessness | Contained | Significant |
Shifting from Columbus to Chicago, you'll likely notice a distinct difference in the cost of living and taxation. While Chicago boasts a higher average household income, it's accompanied by a greater cost of living index and higher taxes across sales, property, and a flat state income tax. This could mean that despite a potentially higher salary, your day-to-day and long-term expenses might also increase. Significant differences in the affluence and poverty descriptors suggest a divergent economic environment, which could impact the broader socio-economic landscape you'll be entering. Understanding these dynamics is critical in preparing for such a move.
Columbus vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
This is a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Columbus & Chicago, providing a quick snapshot to help you understand the community you are moving into or considering. It's a brief glimpse into the local political tendencies and religious affiliations of residents in these vibrant cities.
| Columbus | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderately progressive policies | Highly progressive with active community engagement |
| Religion | Diverse with a strong Christian presence | Predominantly Christian with significant Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities |
When comparing Columbus and Chicago, you'll find Chicago leans more strongly towards Democratic politics, reflecting in its more pronounced progressive policies and community participation. Political discussions and activities are a significant part of life in Chicago, more so than in Columbus, indicating a more vibrant political scene. In terms of religion, both cities have a diverse religious landscape, but Chicago boasts a richer diversity with well-represented Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities alongside its predominant Christian population. This spiritual diversity is reflective of Chicago's broader demographic diversity, offering a welcoming environment to people of all faiths.
Columbus vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL involves a notable shift in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Columbus & Chicago aims to help you better understand what your day-to-day transit situation might look like in these two cities.
| Comparison | Columbus | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Easier |
In Columbus, the average commute time is shorter, and traffic congestion is less severe compared to Chicago, making driving a more pleasant experience. However, the availability of public transit in Columbus ranks lower, which means relying on your vehicle might be more necessary. On the other hand, Chicago offers more robust public transit options, including buses, the 'L' train system, and commuter rail services, facilitating an easier lifestyle without the constant use of a car. This contrast highlights Chicago's denser urban environment and the efficient infrastructure in place to accommodate a higher volume of commuters.
