Best Philadelphia to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the historic charm of Philadelphia, PA, to the bustling streets of Chicago, IL, is an adventure that promises a vibrant change in scenery and lifestyle. Leaving behind the City of Brotherly Love for the Windy City means swapping cheesesteaks for deep-dish pizza, and Revolutionary War stories for towering skyscrapers and lakeside views. With such a significant life change, it's crucial to secure trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we use an unbiased ranking algorithm to help you find the best movers for your journey, ensuring a smooth transition to your new chapter in Chicago.
Best Philadelphia to Chicago Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Philadelphia guide.
5 Best Philadelphia to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About EverSafe Moving Co.
Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to its team of ...Read More >>
Services
- Local Movers
- Long-distance Movers
- Packing Services
About Pineapple Movers
Pineapple Movers is a Philadelphia-based moving company that specializes in relocating residences and offices of all sizes. Established in 2...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
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 banning moving
Banning Moving is a professional moving company focused on providing reliable and caring services for its customers. With experienced movers...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country 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.
Philadelphia vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Planning a move and worried about feeling out of place? Get acquainted with your new surroundings by comparing familiar locales from Philadelphia, PA, to their counterparts in Chicago, IL. This guide highlights the comparison of the local neighborhoods between Philadelphia, PA & Chicago, IL , aiding in a smoother transition for you. Discover which areas of Chicago will feel like home away from home.
| Philadelphia | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rittenhouse Square | Gold Coast | Historic, luxurious living |
| Fishtown | Wicker Park | Artsy, vibrant nightlife |
| Manayunk | Lincoln Park | Young professionals, green spaces |
| West Philadelphia | Hyde Park | Diverse, intellectual community |
| Old City | Old Town | Rich history, lively dining scene |
| East Passyunk | Andersonville | Unique shops, diverse eateries |
| Northern Liberties | Logan Square | Creative, cool atmosphere |
| University City | Hyde Park | Academic institutions, cultural depth |
| Center City | The Loop | Urban heart, cultural hub |
| South Philadelphia | Pilsen | Cultural richness, community feel |
For newcomers transitioning from Philadelphia's Rittenhouse Square to Chicago, the Gold Coast offers a seamless blend of historic charm and luxury, lined with upscale boutiques and restaurants like Carmine's. Meanwhile, the artistic spirit and nightlife of Fishtown find a comfortable match in Wicker Park, home to galleries, theaters, and The Violet Hour cocktail bar. Those appreciating the young professional lifestyle and lush greenery of Manayunk will find Lincoln Park's expansive parks, such as Oz Park, and active social scene an ideal setup. And for those drawn to the academic and diverse ambiance of University City, Hyde Park will not disappoint with its intellectual community and landmarks like the Museum of Science and Industry. These nuanced comparisons aim to soften the transition, highlighting Chicago's neighborhoods as not just places to live but spaces to thrive and connect.
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 Philadelphia to Chicago
Moving from one city to another presents a chance to weigh different lifestyles, opportunities, and challenges. This guide offers a balanced view to help you carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of relocating from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL. These comparisons aim to provide an honest reflection of this move, highlighting what you're leaving behind and what awaits you in your new city.
Philadelphia, PA- Higher crime rates
- Colder winters
- Smaller city
- Less public transit
Chicago, IL- Lower crime in suburbs
- Lake-effect snow
- Larger city vibes
- Better transit options
Chicago, IL- Not as historical
- Different food scene
- More urban feel
- Higher living costs
Philadelphia, PA- Rich history
- Unique cuisine
- Cozy neighborhoods
- Cheaper cost of living
Relocating from Philadelphia, PA, to Chicago, IL, you'll exchange historic cobblestone streets like those in Old City for Chicago's bustling Magnificent Mile. While you might miss the iconic cheesesteaks, you'll dive into a new culinary world, with Chicago's deep-dish pizza and the diverse dining scene in neighborhoods such as Logan Square. The Windy City also offers an impressive skyline, extensive parks like Millennium Park, and a robust public transit system that includes the Chicago 'L'. Despite these changes, both cities boast vibrant communities, rich cultural experiences, and unique lifestyle opportunities that make them great places to call home.
Philadelphia vs. Chicago Food Guide
Food plays a crucial role in understanding the local culture and lifestyle of a place. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Philadelphia & Chicago to help you get acquainted with the food scene you’re about to dive into as you plan your move.
| Philadelphia | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Philly Cheesesteak | Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Roast Pork Sandwich | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Soft Pretzel | Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Cheesesteak | Vegan Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Philadelphia to Chicago, you'll transition from the land of the iconic Philly Cheesesteak to the home of world-famous Deep-Dish Pizza. Both cities boast a vibrant foodie scene, but Chicago edges ahead with its diverse culinary offerings and slightly higher vegan-friendliness rating. Iconic Philadelphia experiences like enjoying a roast pork sandwich from Reading Terminal Market will shift to savory moments biting into an Italian Beef sandwich or a vegan deep-dish pizza in one of Chicago's famed eateries like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria. Moreover, Chicago's health conscientiousness is a bit higher, evidenced by numerous options for fitness-minded individuals and healthy eating spots in neighborhoods such as Lincoln Park and The Loop.
Philadelphia vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the cultural and culinary landscape of your new city is crucial in making it feel like home. This Philadelphia to Chicago restaurant comparison is designed to help you quickly find your new go-to dining spots by mapping your favorite Philadelphia eateries to their Chicago counterparts. Whether you're craving an upscale dining experience or a casual bite, this guide has you covered.
| Philadelphia | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Zahav | Galit | Serving Middle Eastern cuisine with a focus on Israeli dishes, much like Zahav. |
| Vetri Cucina | Spiaggia | Offers high-end Italian dining, drawing parallels to Vetri Cucina's refined experience. |
| Reading Terminal Market | Revival Food Hall | Both are food halls providing a variety of local eats and products under one roof. |
| Franklin Fountain | Margie's Candies | Iconic spots for a sweet treat with a historical atmosphere. |
| Pizzeria Beddia | Pequod's Pizza | Known for their unique approach to pizza, creating a deep-dish experience that rivals Pizzeria Beddia's craft. |
| La Colombe Coffee Roasters | Intelligentsia Coffee | Both are pioneers in the third-wave coffee movement, offering meticulously sourced and roasted beans. |
| Pat's King of Steaks | Al's Beef | Both landmark establishments in their cities, offering iconic beef sandwiches that are must-tries. |
| Dalessandro's Steaks | Portillo's | While known for hot dogs, Portillo's Italian beef sandwiches provide a similar cult-favorite experience to Dalessandro's cheesesteaks. |
| El Vez | Big Star | Both restaurants offer a vibrant, upbeat atmosphere with inventive tacos and margaritas. |
| Fork | The Publican | Both emphasize farm-to-table dining with a focus on seasonal American cuisine, making them culinary highlights in their respective cities. |
While each city's culinary scene is unique, the similarities between Philadelphia's Zahav and Chicago's Galit are palpable, with both offering an exploration into Middle Eastern flavors through a contemporary lens. Meanwhile, fans of Philadelphia's famed cheesesteak scene will find solace in Chicago's beef sandwiches; for example, Al's Beef is a worthy contender, capturing the essence of a local, beloved classic with its own twist. For those looking for an iconic dessert experience, transitioning from Franklin Fountain to Margie's Candies offers a nostalgic journey with each sweet treat. These comparisons not only highlight the incredible dining options awaiting you in Chicago but also assure that your culinary favorites can find a new home.
Ready to start your move?
Philadelphia vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Exploring new cities can be an exciting journey, especially when it involves setting down roots. Real estate plays a crucial role in this adventure, showcasing Philadelphia and Chicago 's offerings, from costs to lifestyle. Understanding how these two vibrant cities compare can help you make an informed decision tailored to your needs.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial and Row Houses | Modern and Condominiums |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to public transport, historical charm | Lake views, proximity to downtown |
When comparing the housing landscape of Philadelphia and Chicago, several distinctions stand out. Philadelphia blends historical charm with urban convenience, often highlighting its Colonial and row house architecture alongside the ease of access to public transportation in real estate listings. Conversely, Chicago, with its higher median home price, appeals through modern living spaces and condominiums boasting scenic lake views and a bustling downtown life. Thus, your preference towards a historical ambiance or a modern urban lifestyle may be a determining factor. Additionally, while Philadelphia slightly edges out in terms of walkability, Chicago offers a more dynamic urban living experience rated higher by its residents.
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.
Philadelphia vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the differences in weather patterns between Philadelphia and Chicago is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust to the new climate, ensuring you’re prepared for everything from the coolest winters to the warmest summers.
Philadelphia, PA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Philadelphia, PA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Philadelphia, PA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Flooding, Storms | Snowstorms, Extreme Cold |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both cities experience four distinct seasons, notable differences exist particularly in winter temperatures and snowfall, with Chicago being colder and receiving more snow on average than Philadelphia. Both cities have similar humidity levels and experience their top seasonal allergies from pollen and mold. Furthermore, Chicago has fewer sunny days throughout the year, which might affect your outdoor activities and overall mood. Adapting to these differences will be key in making your transition as smooth as possible.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Philadelphia to Chicago
When deciding to move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the financial implications. This comparison will highlight how the cost of living and economic conditions between Philadelphia and Chicago will affect your wallet.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $52,899 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 126.5 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 2.16 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Professional and Business Services | Manufacturing, Retail, Health Services and Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Notable | Considerable |
Moving from Philadelphia to Chicago, you will find that while the average income is higher in Chicago, so are the costs associated with living there, including a higher cost of living index and sales tax. This is compounded by significantly higher state and property taxes. However, Chicago's rich diversity in industries may offer more job opportunities in sectors like manufacturing, retail, and technology. It's essential to consider these financial factors alongside the lifestyle each city offers to make an informed decision.
Philadelphia vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another can bring a myriad of changes, especially when relocating from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL . This comparison aims to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, offering insights into the community you're about to join.
| Philadelphia | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate with progressive elements | Progressive with strong unions |
| Religion | Diverse; notable Christian and Muslim communities | Diverse; significant Catholic, Jewish, and Islamic communities |
While both Philadelphia and Chicago lean towards Democratic political views, you'll find that Chicago's politics are more heavily influenced by union activities, reflecting its deeply entrenched labor movement history. This can lead to a significantly different local political climate, with perhaps more emphasis placed on labor rights and protections. Additionally, despite the religious diversity found in both cities, the structure and prevalence of certain communities can differ, offering a range of places of worship and community involvement opportunities based on your personal beliefs.
Philadelphia vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Making a move between Philadelphia, PA, and Chicago, IL, involves adapting to new daily commutes and understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options. This comparison will help you better grasp what to expect in terms of navigating each city, whether you're behind the wheel or using public transit.
| Comparison | Philadelphia | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 32 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Yes, easier than in Philadelphia |
In both cities, traffic congestion can significantly impact your average commute times, with Chicago experiencing slightly higher levels of congestion than Philadelphia. However, Chicago boasts a more robust public transit system, rated higher in terms of both availability and coverage, making it easier to navigate without a car. Whereas, in Philadelphia, relying entirely on public transit can be more challenging due to less widespread service and connectivity issues. This difference in public transportation options might influence your decision to own a car depending on which city you're moving to.
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