Moving from Providence to Chicago?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Providence to Chicago Movers

Moving from bustling Providence, the Renaissance City, to the vibrant streets of Chicago, the Windy City, marks an exciting chapter in your life full of new beginnings and adventures. Leaving behind the coastal charm of Rhode Island for Illinois' iconic skyline and deep-dish pizza, you embark on a journey between two cities each storied in their own right. To ensure this major transition is as smooth as possible, it's crucial to choose trusted and reliable professional movers like us at Great Guys Moving, who use an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best in the business for your long-distance move.

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

5 Best Providence to Chicago Movers

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

#1
Seven Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,380+ data points

Brookline, MA
Residential Moving, Office & Commercial Moving, Long-Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2790199 Verify

About Seven Moving

Seven Moving is a professional moving company located in Brookline. It has been in business for over eight years and has plenty of experienc...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in providence 2023 seven moving image
top 10 ranked movers in providence 2022 seven moving image
#2
6
Exceptional

based on 1,152+ data points

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

(last checked 9/6/2024)

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in kankakee 2023 606 movers inc image
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#3
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 9/5/2024)

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 >>

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top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top 3 ranked movers in chicago 2023 move tastic image
#4
M&M Moving and Storage Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,840+ data points

Westborough, MA
Local Moving, Commercial Moving, Long-distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 2015288 Verify

About M&M Moving and Storage Company

Founded in 2006 by two brothers, M&M Moving and Storage Company helps individuals and businesses relocate with its professional moving s...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in worcester 2023 m m moving and storage company image
top 10 ranked movers in worcester 2022 m m moving and storage company image
#5
Raimond's Movers Inc. Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 2,626+ data points

Boston, MA
Local Moves, Interstate Moving, Packing Services and Supplies See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2024)

USDOT: 1797448 Verify

About Raimond's Movers Inc.

At Raimond's Movers the standard is excellence. Founded in 2008, the company provides local moves within 150 miles of Boston as well as int...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in worcester 2022 raimonds movers inc image

Relocating from Providence to Chicago Neighborhood Guide

Moving from one city to another can be daunting, particularly when you're not familiar with your new surroundings. To ease this transition, we're providing a comparison to help you find neighborhoods in Chicago that mirror those in Providence. By looking at comparisons of local neighborhoods between Providence, RI & Chicago, IL , you can identify which area of Chicago might feel most like home, based on what you loved about your Providence neighborhood.

ProvidenceChicago
College HillHyde Park

Rich history and education focused

Federal HillLittle Italy

Vibrant dining scene

Wayland SquareAndersonville

Charming local shopping

ElmhurstRavenswood

Family-friendly, with a mix of students

Smith HillLogan Square

Mix of historic and trendy vibes

East SideLakeview

Diverse, with vibrant nightlife and parks

Fox PointPilsen

Artsy and close-knit community

DowntownThe Loop

Heart of the city's business and culture

West EndWicker Park

Hipster-friendly, with plenty of eateries

Armory DistrictOld Town

Historic charm with modern attractions

For those who loved the collegiate atmosphere and historic appeal of College Hill in Providence, Chicago's Hyde Park, with institutions like the University of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry, offers a similar blend of academic and cultural richness. If Federal Hill's Italian cuisine made your weekends delightful, you will find Little Italy in Chicago a gastronomic heaven, with favorites such as Tufano's Vernon Park Tap serving classic dishes in a cozy setting. Meanwhile, the art enthusiasts and indie shop aficionados who cherished Fox Point will be drawn to Pilsen’s thriving arts scene, highlighted by the monthly Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays Gallery Night. Moving to a new city is about finding new favorites while remembering the best parts of your old neighborhood, and this guide aims to help you do just that.

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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

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Providence to Chicago

Moving from one city to another involves weighing the scales of lifestyle changes. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on moving from Providence, RI to Chicago, IL , outlining both the challenges and the advantages. It's designed to help you visualize how your daily life, access to amenities, and overall environment may shift for better or for some, possibly worse.

CONs
PROs
Providence, RI iconProvidence, RI
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Smaller restaurant scene
  • Minimal public transit
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Larger urban setting
  • More cultural diversity
  • Greater job market
  • World-class dining
  • Extensive public transit
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • More impersonal
  • Louder urban noise
  • Higher cost of living
  • Urban environment
  • Modern skyline
Providence, RI iconProvidence, RI
  • Close-knit community
  • Quiet residential areas
  • Lower living costs
  • Access to nature
  • Historic charm

While Providence boasts a close-knit atmosphere with quieter neighborhoods like the historic College Hill, Chicago offers a vibrant urban environment filled with endless activities and sights such as Millennium Park and the bustling Magnificent Mile. The restaurant scene in Chicago is unparalleled, with world-renowned establishments like Alinea contrasting Providence's cozier dining spots like Al Forno. Chicago's diverse cultural landscape, reflected in its neighborhoods and public events, presents a broader canvas for personal and professional growth. Nevertheless, this transition may mean embracing the hustle of a bigger city and adapting to a higher cost of living, balancing the excitement of change with the comfort of familiarity.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Providence to Chicago

This comparison of the local cuisine between Providence & Chicago lets you savour a bite of the cultural essence from both cities. Moving to a new city means exploring new tastes and experiences. We’ve crafted this guide to help you get a taste of what life will be like, culinary-wise, in your new home.

ProvidenceChicago

Most iconic local food item

Stuffies (Stuffed Clams)Deep-Dish Pizza

Most popular meat dish

Italian SausageItalian Beef

Most popular street food item

Hot WeinersChicago-style Hot Dog

Most popular vegan food

Seitan SandwichVegan Deep-Dish Pizza

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Al Forno
  • Hemenway's
  • Gracie's
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Alinea
  • Portillo's

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

57

Foodie Scene

89

Vegan Friendly

78

When you're moving from Providence to Chicago, you're transitioning from a place known for its coastal cuisine and Italian influences to a city deep-rooted in hearty, comfort foods with a twist. In Providence, the local favorite, Stuffies (Stuffed Clams), captures the essence of New England's love for seafood. Meanwhile, Chicago’s renowned for its signature deep-dish pizza, a dish so iconic that you’ll find debates around the best place to grab a slice—Lou Malnati's Pizzeria often comes up in conversation. Moreover, Chicago's food scene is not just about meat lovers; the vegan community thrives with options like vegan deep-dish pizza. Neighborhoods like Logan Square or the West Loop are bustling hubs for foodies, offering an array of cuisines that cater to all palates and preferences. Whether you’re strolling through Pilsen for authentic Mexican street food or hitting up food trucks in Millennium Park, Chicago’s culinary scene is endlessly exciting.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Providence to Chicago

Relocating from Providence to Chicago brings a multitude of changes, but the joy of discovering a new favorite dining spot shouldn't be daunting. This Providence to Chicago restaurant comparison chart is here to bridge the culinary gap, ensuring you'll feel at home with flavors old and new in Chicago . Whether you're in the mood for an upscale dining experience, a casual eatery, or a unique foodie destination, we've got you covered by paralleling your Providence favorites with Chicago's vibrant food scene.

Al FornoMonteverde

Both renowned for their unique and innovative Italian dishes

Gracie'sAlinea

Offering an unparalleled dining experience with creative, multi-course meals

Los AndesTanta

Both specialize in elevated South American cuisine, presenting vibrant and flavorful dishes

NorthFat Rice

Creative, fusion-driven menus showcasing unique takes on Asian cuisine

Olneyville New York SystemPortillo's

Iconic for their casual, historic settings and for serving classic, regional fast food favorites

Providence Coal Fired PizzaPequod's Pizza

Both are adored for their distinctive approaches to coal-fired and deep-dish pizzas

Ken's RamenRamen-San

Providing authentic ramen experiences with a modern twist, similar to Ken's dedication to quality and flavor

Joe's Midnight RunLongman & Eagle

Casual yet high-quality dining, known for pushing the boundaries of traditional dishes

Nick's on BroadwayOver Easy Cafe

Renowned for their breakfast and brunch offerings, using fresh, local ingredients

The DorranceThe Signature Room

Both offer an elegant dining experience with stunning interiors and exceptional views

When the craving for comforting, flavorsome ramen hits, Ramen-San in Chicago stands as a beacon for those who cherished the bowls at Ken's Ramen back in Providence. Ramen-San delivers on both tradition and innovation, paralleling Ken's dedication to nurturing each bowl into a flavorful masterpiece. Meanwhile, fans of unique, coal-fired pizza aren't left wanting, with Pequod's Pizza serving deep-dish pies that resonate with the soulful crunch and char of Providence Coal Fired Pizza's offerings. This culinary expedition from Providence to Chicago ensures that each meal becomes a bridge linking cherished memories to new experiences, fostering a sense of home in every bite.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Providence to Chicago

Real estate is a pivotal factor when considering a relocation. Understanding how Providence and Chicago compare in housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle is essential. This comparison illuminates your options, guiding you to make an informed decision tailored to your preferences and needs.

When examining the housing markets of Providence and Chicago, several key differences emerge. Providence, with its blend of Colonial and Victorian architecture, offers a glimpse into American history complemented by modern convenience. Its moderately high walkability and bikeability scores reflect a city that's friendly to pedestrians and cyclists alike. On the other hand, Chicago’s higher median monthly rent and overall urban lifestyle score suggest a bustling city life, elevated by its distinct modern and Greystone architectural styles. Chicago's advantage in walkability underscores a city designed for exploration on foot, fostered by the abundance of parks, lake views, and landmarks. Both cities offer unique lifestyle features, whether it’s the historic charm and water views of Providence or the vibrant urban experience and transit access in Chicago.

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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 Providence to Chicago

When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather in Providence compares to Chicago is crucial. This comparison will help you anticipate changes in weather patterns and prepare accordingly.

Summer icon
83/63

Providence, RI

85/65

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
37/23

Providence, RI

36/22

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47

Providence, RI

39

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
34

Providence, RI

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

In comparing Providence and Chicago's climates, there are notable nuances worth considering. For example, both cities experience relatively similar annual humidity levels and face common seasonal allergies, such as tree pollen and grass. Moreover, with Chicago's slightly less sunny days per year and comparable winter temperatures, you might find winters a bit drearier than in Providence. However, Chicago experiences a slightly higher average annual snowfall, which is important for those who enjoy winter sports or are concerned about winter commuting. Understanding these differences will be invaluable in making your transition as smooth as possible.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how financial aspects such as cost of living, taxes, and average income in Providence compare to Chicago. This understanding will help you make an informed decision about your relocation.

Moving from Providence to Chicago, you'll notice differences in both living costs and tax rates. While Chicago has a lower average household income, its cost of living index is also lower, making some expenses more manageable despite higher sales tax rates. Property taxes in Chicago are notably higher, a critical consideration if you plan to buy a home. The shift in predominant industries between the two cities suggests different job opportunities, which might influence your career prospects. Understanding these dynamics will better prepare you for the financial landscape of your new home.

Political & Religious Comparison between Providence, RI and Chicago, IL

In this guide, we're providing a quick look at the city you're leaving and the one you're heading to. This section focuses on the politics and religion between Providence & Chicago , offering a snapshot of what the typical makeup of the population is like in these areas. It's designed to give you a sense of the community you'll be joining or leaving behind.

ProvidenceChicago

Political Make-up

LiberalLiberal

Local Politics

Democrat-ledDemocrat-led

Religion

Mix, with a high Catholic presenceDiverse, with significant Catholic and Protestant communities

While both Providence and Chicago have a liberal political landscape, reflected in their Democrat-led local governments, the way this translates into local policies and community initiatives might feel different as you make your move. Providence’s political culture is intertwined deeply with its history and local issues, such as education and infrastructure, while Chicago’s politics are often characterized by its larger scale urban challenges, including economic disparities and public safety. Despite these differences, you'll likely find the religious diversity comforting. Both cities host a variety of religious communities, with a strong presence of Catholic and Protestant communities in Chicago, mirroring the mix you're familiar with in Providence. Beyond the numbers, these aspects of your new home will play a significant role in your day-to-day life, influencing everything from local events to the conversations you’ll have with your new neighbors.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Providence to Chicago

Moving from Providence, R.I., to Chicago, Ill., requires adapting to a new daily commute and traffic flow. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Providence & Chicago aims to help you better understand what your daily commute could look like in your new city.

ProvidenceChicago
2535

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

67

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

58

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with some difficultyEasier than in Providence

Can you get by without car?

In Providence, your commute time might feel brief compared to the bustling streets of Chicago. The Windy City's greater traffic congestion reflects its larger population and dense urban landscape. However, Chicago makes up for this with its extensive public transit system, rated significantly higher than Providence's. The availability of buses, trains, and other forms of public transport in Chicago makes it feasibly easier to navigate the city without sole reliance on a car. Despite these variances, both cities provide unique commuting experiences shaped by their distinct infrastructures and urban planning approaches.

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