Best Nashville to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Nashville, TN to Chicago, IL is an exhilarating leap into a new chapter of your life, teeming with opportunities and adventures. You're leaving behind Nashville's renowned country rhythms and welcoming arms, affectionately known as "Music City," for Chicago's bustling streets, towering architecture, and the vibrant energy of "The Windy City." To ensure this transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible, it's crucial to hire trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we provide you with the best movers in the country, carefully selected through our unbiased algorithm, guaranteeing your move is in the safest hands.
Best Nashville 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 |
| Little Guys Movers Nashville | 9.07 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 6th Man Movers | 9.00 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Smooth Moving & Storage | 8.93 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Nashville guide.
5 Best Nashville 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 Little Guys Movers Nashville
Established in 1992, Little Guys Movers Nashville is a highly regarded franchise providing numerous moving and packing services. They cater ...Read More >>
Services
- Long Distance Moving
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
About 6th Man Movers
As a locally owned and operated moving company based in Nashville, Tennessee, 6th Man Movers serves Nashville residents with high-quality re...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance
- Labor Only
About Smooth Moving & Storage
Smooth Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering professional, reliable, and str...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Residential 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.
Nashville vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially if you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison between popular neighborhoods in Nashville, TN & Chicago, IL . This guide is designed to help you find a new home that resonates with the same vibe and community spirit you've come to love.
| Nashville | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Nashville | Logan Square | Vibrant, artsy community |
| Germantown | Wicker Park | Historic, trendy dining |
| 12 South | Lincoln Park | Family-friendly, boutique shopping |
| The Gulch | Fulton Market | Chic, urban redevelopment |
| Green Hills | Lakeview | Upscale, serene residential area |
| Music Row | Uptown | Diverse, historic music scene |
| Midtown | Gold Coast | Lively nightlife, upscale living |
| Sobro | River North | Trendy bars, river views |
| Belle Meade | Lincoln Square | Quaint, community-focused |
| Belmont/Hillsboro | Andersonville | Tight-knit, charming main street |
For those who adore the eclectic and artsy vibe of East Nashville, Logan Square in Chicago offers a similar atmosphere with its vibrant arts scene and bustling nightlife. Similarly, if the historic charm and upscale dining of Germantown have captured your heart, Wicker Park will feel like home with its blend of historic buildings and trendy restaurants, such as the famed Big Guys Sausage Stand. Family-oriented residents will find Lincoln Park's blend of boutiques, parks like the Oz Park, and family-friendly restaurants mirroring 12 South's welcoming community. And for the lovers of the chic urban life in The Gulch, Fulton Market's dynamic mix of upscale eateries, like the Publican, and sleek residential spaces offer a similar allure amidst Chicago's storied cityscape.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Nashville to Chicago
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting experience, presenting a mix of challenges and opportunities. This detailed comparison aims to highlight the pros and cons of relocating from Nashville, TN to Chicago, IL , offering a genuine reflection on the various aspects of such a transition. By comparing the advantages and disadvantages, you will be equipped to make an informed decision about your upcoming move.
Nashville, TN- Higher Crime Rate
- Less Public Transit
- Warmer Climate
Chicago, IL- Lower Crime Rate
- Extensive Public Transit
- Diverse Seasons
Chicago, IL- Less Country Music
- Higher Living Costs
- Urban Congestion
Nashville, TN- Vibrant Music Scene
- Affordable Housing
- Smaller City Feel
When moving from Nashville, TN, to Chicago, IL, it's essential to consider both the tangible and intangible aspects of both cities. Nashville's vibrant music scene, notably at venues like the Grand Ole Opry, plays a significant role in its cultural identity, something that is less emphasized in Chicago's diverse musical landscape. However, Chicago offers an array of cultural experiences, from the iconic Art Institute of Chicago to eclectic music at places like the Metro. Moreover, Chicago's extensive public transit system, including both buses and the 'L' trains, significantly outmatches Nashville's, facilitating easier commutes across the city. Lastly, the transition from Nashville's warmer, milder climate to Chicago's diverse seasonal experience allows for a unique appreciation of both winter's chill and summer's warmth, alongside the enjoyment of seasonal activities in the city's numerous parks and along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Nashville vs. Chicago Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Nashville & Chicago highlights the food scene you'll experience as you transition between these vibrant cities. From iconic dishes to the health-focused offerings, gain a better understanding of what culinary delights await you in your new home.
| Nashville | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Hot Chicken | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Ribs | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Pickles | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit BBQ | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Nashville, the hot chicken at Prince's Hot Chicken is an absolute must-try, embodying the city's love for spicy and richly flavored cuisine. The East Nashville neighborhood is not just about music; it's a haven for food lovers with an abundance of food trucks featuring everything from Southern comforts to international delights. Meanwhile, in Chicago, the deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's epitomizes the city's culinary scene with its thick, cheesy layers and robust tomato sauce. The West Loop area has evolved into a dining epicenter, where innovative dishes at places like Alinea challenge the palate. Both cities boast a vibrant foodie scene, but Chicago takes the lead in vegan friendliness with a wider variety of plant-based options to explore.
Nashville vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Discovering your next culinary favorite is crucial in feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison between Nashville, TN, and Chicago, IL , aims to help you find the top spots that mirror your taste and preferences from Nashville in the Windy City. Whether you crave high-end dining experiences or the comfort of casual eateries, this guide serves as your culinary compass during your transition.
| Nashville | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Catbird Seat | Alinea | Both offer unique, high-end dining experiences with tasting menus. |
| Hattie B’s Hot Chicken | Harold’s Chicken Shack | Famous for their take on spicy and delicious fried chicken. |
| Arnold’s Country Kitchen | Big Jones | Offering traditional Southern comfort food with a focus on farm-to-table principles. |
| Prince’s Hot Chicken | The Roost Carolina Kitchen | Similar for their love and perfect execution of hot chicken. |
| City House | Publican | Both are renowned for their unique takes on rustic, Italian-influenced American cuisine. |
| Loveless Cafe | Luella’s Southern Kitchen | Renowned for their dedication to Southern culinary traditions and hearty meals. |
| Rolf and Daughters | avec | Both excel in offering a modern take on Mediterranean and rustic European dishes. |
| Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams | Scooter’s Frozen Custard | Both venues offer unique, artisanal frozen treats that satisfy any sweet tooth. |
| Josephine | The Bristol | This comparison stems from their shared commitment to elevated American cuisine in a cozy, welcoming setting. |
| Five Points Pizza | Pequod’s Pizza | Famous for their pan pizza with a "caramelized crust," offering a unique pizza experience similar to Five Points' beloved slices. |
In the culinary journey from Nashville's famed hot chicken to Chicago's legendary pizza scene, you'll find comforting similarities and exhilarating new flavors. For example, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken has become a staple of Nashville's food scene, known for its fiery heat and juicy flavors. In Chicago, Harold’s Chicken Shack stands as a worthy counterpart, offering its take on spicy, soul-satisfying fried chicken that resonates with those familiar tastes of Nashville. For pizza aficionados, moving from the artisan slices served at Five Points Pizza to the iconic, caramelized crust of Pequod’s Pizza in Chicago means discovering a deep dish delight that rivals the best of Nashville's thin crust. This guide isn’t just about finding a place to eat; it’s about discovering new culinary adventures that echo the flavors of home.
Ready to start your move?
Nashville vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate deeply impacts the relocation process, making it essential to compare the housing landscapes of Nashville, TN and Chicago, IL . This comparison illuminates the distinctions in cost , architecture , and lifestyle between the two cities, guiding you towards making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Nashville | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Craftsman | Brick Bungalows, Greystones |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, quiet neighborhoods | Access to public transit, skyline views |
When moving from Nashville to Chicago, you're transitioning from a city known for its spacious Victorian homes to one celebrated for its iconic brick bungalows and greystones. Chicago's higher walkability and bikeability scores reflect its dense urban layout, offering easier access to amenities without the need for a car. This shift not only signifies a change in lifestyle but also points towards a more urban-centric environment. Real estate listings in Chicago frequently highlight proximity to public transit and stunning skyline views, contrasting with Nashville's focus on spacious yards and quieter neighborhoods. Understanding these differences can help you better envision your new life in Chicago.
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.
Nashville vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Nashville, TN to Chicago, IL, comprehending how the weather dynamics in Nashville and Chicago will differ is crucial. This comparison will provide you with a clearer picture of what to anticipate weather-wise in your new city, making your transition smoother.
Nashville, TN
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Nashville, TN
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Nashville, TN
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Nashville, TN
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Nashville | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Storms | Blizzards, Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Transitioning from Nashville to Chicago, you'll find the winters noticeably colder and longer, with an average winter high in Chicago being about 14 degrees lower than in Nashville. This is coupled with a significant increase in annual snowfall, jumping from Nashville's 6 inches to Chicago's 36 inches. While both cities enjoy a fair amount of sunny days, Chicago experiences nearly 20 fewer days of sunshine annually. Understanding these variations can help you better prepare for seasonal activities and manage expectations of your new environment in Chicago.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Nashville to Chicago
When planning a move from Nashville, TN to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to grasp how your financial situation might change. This comparison aims to highlight key economic differences between Nashville and Chicago , shedding light on aspects such as income, taxes, and living costs. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your relocation.
| Comparison | Nashville | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $64,857 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 88.9 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.93 | 2.10 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Music, Tourism | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | Varied |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Significant |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
Comparing Nashville and Chicago, you'll notice that despite a higher average household income in Nashville, Chicago's cost of living is slightly more. This is compounded by Illinois' state income tax, which Tennessee lacks, effectively making take-home pay potentially less in Chicago despite the lower average income. However, Chicago's vast economic diversity in industries such as finance, manufacturing, and IT could offer more varied job opportunities, potentially offsetting some of the cost differences. Keep in mind, property and sales taxes are also higher in Chicago, affecting overall expenses. Knowing these financial nuances will aid in your transition between these two cities.
Nashville vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Nashville, TN to Chicago, IL, it’s essential to grasp the distinct characteristics that define each city's populace. This overview serves as a comparison of the politics between Nashville & Chicago , as well as a glance at the religious landscape, providing valuable insight for potential newcomers.
| Nashville | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate with a mix of liberal and conservative positions | Liberal with strong emphasis on progressive policies |
| Religion | Highly diverse with a strong Protestant presence | Diverse, with Catholicism being more predominant |
The political landscape of Nashville and Chicago might seem similar at first glance, with both cities leaning Democratic. However, the extent and nature of this leaning differ significantly. In Nashville, the blend of politics might feel moderate, catering to both liberal and conservative viewpoints, which reflects the city's diverse demographic and the Southern tradition of blending political views. In contrast, Chicago's political scene is known for its staunchly liberal stance, heavily emphasizing progressive policies. This difference in political climates mirrors the priorities and lifestyles of their residents. Additionally, the religious makeup in Nashville boasts a stronger Protestant presence, aligning with the traditional Southern Baptist roots, while Chicago presents a broader Catholic presence, indicative of its diverse immigrant history. Understanding these nuances could enrich your adaptation process, integrating smoother into the local community of your new home.
Nashville vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Nashville, TN to Chicago, IL, means adapting to new rhythms in daily life, especially when it comes to your commute. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Nashville & Chicago is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic experience might be like in these two dynamic cities.
| Comparison | Nashville | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
While Nashville boasts a shorter average commute time compared to Chicago, it falls behind in terms of public transit availability, making it more challenging to get by without a car. On the other hand, Chicago's robust public transit system, rated significantly higher, facilitates a car-free lifestyle for many residents despite its denser traffic congestion. This difference highlights the importance of considering how your mode of transportation might change with your move, potentially trading in your car keys for a transit pass.
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