Best San Antonio to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from city to city symbolizes an exhilarating journey or a significant life change, wrapping up one chapter to start fresh in another. You're saying goodbye to San Antonio's laid-back rhythm and the Alamo spirit, trading them for Chicago's vibrant life, also known as the Windy City, with its towering skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza. Understanding the magnitude of this long-distance transition emphasizes the need to secure the services of trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring your journey from Texas to Illinois is smooth and stress-free. At Great Guys Moving, we pride ourselves on connecting you with the best movers in the business, making your move as seamless as possible.
Best San Antonio to Chicago Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC | 9.56 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Move-tastic! | 9.35 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Little Guys Movers | 9.26 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Move Logistics Inc. | 9.24 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to San Antonio guide.
5 Best San Antonio to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC
New Braunfels Moving Company, LLC was established in 2014, after its founder and owner had acquired over 15 years of experience in the indus...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Business Relocation
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
Little Guys Movers is a franchised nationwide moving company operating in eight states, including Texas. It has a location in San Marcos, on...Read More >>
Services
- LONG DISTANCE MOVING
- LOCAL MOVING
- COMMERCIAL MOVING
About Move Logistics Inc.
This family-owned moving company was founded on the values of professionalism, service, and high standards. Move Logistics performs both res...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Interstate 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.
San Antonio vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we're offering a comparison to help you find similar neighborhoods between San Antonio, TX & Chicago, IL. By matching popular neighborhoods from your current city with those in your future city, you can better envision your new life and find a community that feels like home.
| San Antonio | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Alamo Heights | Lincoln Park | Historic homes, vibrant community |
| Southtown | Wicker Park | Artsy vibe, eclectic dining |
| Stone Oak | Lakeview | Family-friendly, with a mix of urban and suburban feels |
| The Pearl | West Loop | Trendy restaurants, upscale living |
| Monte Vista | Gold Coast | Historic district, luxury amenities |
| Downtown | The Loop | Heart of the city, cultural landmarks |
| Castle Hills | Roscoe Village | Quiet, community-oriented |
| Helotes | Edison Park | Suburban feel, family-centric |
| King William | Andersonville | Rich history, inclusive community |
| Leon Valley | Ravenswood | Balanced urban-suburban lifestyle |
For instance, if you're captivated by the historic and upscale ambiance of Alamo Heights in San Antonio, you'll find Lincoln Park in Chicago offering a similar blend of stately homes and a robust community fabric. Lincoln Park is not just about the historic charm; it also boasts notable spots such as the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Lincoln Park Conservatory. Conversely, for those attracted to the lively and artsy feel of Southtown's galleries and eateries, Wicker Park in Chicago provides an eclectic dining scene with spots like Big Star and a unique arts culture, making it the perfect transition. This comparison not only shows the parallels in neighborhood amenities but also highlights the vibrant cultural landscapes awaiting you in your new Chicago neighborhood.
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 San Antonio to Chicago
Moving from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL requires a balanced look at what you're leaving behind and what awaits you. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. By examining the cons of San Antonio versus the pros of Chicago and vice versa, you can make an informed decision tailored to your priorities and lifestyle.
San Antonio, TX- Hot summers
- Less public transit
- Fewer cultural venues
- Smaller job market
Chicago, IL- Cooler summers
- Better public transit
- More cultural options
- Larger job market
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- Less space
- Colder winters
- Faster pace
San Antonio, TX- Lower cost of living
- More space
- Warmer winters
- Laid-back vibe
While leaving San Antonio means saying goodbye to its mild winters and the laid-back lifestyle epitomized by places like the San Antonio River Walk, you'll be embracing Chicago's dynamic city vibe, rich with cultural venues like The Art Institute of Chicago and the bustling streets of The Magnificent Mile. Chicago's extensive public transit system, including the L trains, stands in stark relief to San Antonio's more car-dependent lifestyle. Moreover, moving to Chicago opens up new career opportunities in a variety of industries, augmented by a vast array of dining experiences from renowned establishments like Alinea to the quaint, diverse offerings found in neighborhoods such as Lincoln Park and Wicker Park. This transition, though challenging, promises a wealth of new experiences and opportunities.
San Antonio vs. Chicago Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Antonio & Chicago, offering insights into the food culture of both cities. Understanding local cuisine is essential for getting a taste of what life is like in a new area. This comparison will help you be better informed about the food scene in your new city.
| San Antonio | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Texas BBQ | Deep-dish pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Brisket | Italian beef sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Hot dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Tex-Mex inspired bowls | Vegan deep-dish pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Antonio, the local cuisine is heavily influenced by Tex-Mex and barbecue, with brisket and tacos being especially popular among residents. You'll find a vibrant food scene with an abundance of food trucks and restaurants, like Smoke Shack in the heart of the city, offering authentic Texas BBQ. On the other hand, Chicago is famed for its deep-dish pizza and unique Chicago-style hot dogs. Neighborhoods like River North are home to iconic eateries, including Lou Malnati's Pizzeria for those craving the city's famous deep-dish pizza. Both cities boast a growing number of vegan-friendly options, with Chicago slightly edging out in terms of vegan-friendly dining experiences.
San Antonio vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Finding a new favorite spot to dine can turn a new city into home. This restaurant comparison, moving from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL, helps you discover comparable eateries, making the transition smoother.
| San Antonio | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| La Panadería | Lula Cafe | Known for artisanal bread and a cozy, yet sophisticated breakfast and brunch setting |
| Biga on the Banks | Avec | Both offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on innovative, seasonal dishes |
| Cappy's Restaurant | The Publican | Both renowned for their hearty, meat-centric American cuisine with an upscale twist |
| Bohanan's Prime Steaks and Seafood | Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | Iconic steakhouse offering premium cuts and a luxurious dining experience |
| La Frite Belgian Bistro | Hopleaf | Both have a European feel with a vast selection of beers and bistro-style comfort food |
| Bliss | Girl & The Goat | Comparable for artfully plated, innovative dishes in a chic, bustling atmosphere |
| Rosario's Mexican Cafe y Cantina | Frontera Grill | Celebrated for their authentic regional Mexican cuisine and vibrant decor |
| Smoke Shack | Smoque BBQ | A go-to for BBQ lovers craving smoked meats with a side of homestyle comfort |
| 2M Smokehouse | Lillie's Q | Both specialize in slow-smoked BBQ with a unique twist on traditional sides |
| Pearl Brewery | Revolution Brewing | Craft beer enthusiasts will find a kindred spirit in their artisan brews and community vibe |
Understanding the discomfort of moving and leaving behind favorite dining spots, this guide serves as a bridge. For example, La Panadería's reputation in San Antonio for delightful artisanal breads finds a kindred spirit in Chicago's Lula Cafe, where you can indulge in sophisticated yet comforting breakfast options. Similarly, steak enthusiasts moving from San Antonio will appreciate the consistent quality and luxurious atmosphere offered by Chicago’s Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, matching the high standards of Bohanan's Prime Steaks and Seafood. These comparisons are not only about finding a meal reminiscent of home but also discovering unique culinary experiences that embody the spirit of your new city.
Ready to start your move?
San Antonio vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, evaluating real estate details between San Antonio and Chicago is crucial to grasp their distinct living environments. This comparison sheds light on housing aspects like costs, architecture, and walkability to better understand what each city offers.
| Comparison | San Antonio | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Colonial/Modern Ranch | Prairie/Modern Condo |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, Pools | Lake views, Proximity to public transit |
In both San Antonio and Chicago, housing costs and living preferences vary significantly. San Antonio's real estate market often highlights spacious backyards and pools, catering to families looking for a suburban feel within city limits. On the other hand, Chicago emphasizes urban amenities like public transit accessibility and lake views, appealing to those who cherish city living and the vibrant lifestyle it offers. Furthermore, Chicago's higher walkability and bikeability scores reflect its dense urban environment, where daily commutes and errands do not necessarily require a car. Understanding these dynamics can help you decide which city's housing market aligns with your lifestyle preferences.
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.
San Antonio vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning your move from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to compare the climates of your current and future cities. Understanding these differences is essential for your lifestyle adjustments and preparing for weather variations.
San Antonio, TX
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Antonio, TX
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Antonio, TX
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Antonio, TX
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Antonio | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Floods | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from San Antonio's warmer climate to Chicago's cooler one involves significant adjustments, particularly in terms of wardrobe and home preparedness for winter. In San Antonio, you're used to hot summers and mild winters, with rare events of snowfall. On the other hand, Chicago experiences cold winters with substantial snow, requiring winter gear and possibly different considerations for your vehicle. Additionally, the difference in annual sunshine days and UV index between the two cities suggests a need to adjust your daily routines and sunscreen application habits, especially during Chicago's less sunny days.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Antonio to Chicago
When planning a move from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and finance-related aspects between San Antonio and Chicago will affect your wallet. This comparison will help you gauge what to expect financially.
| Comparison | San Antonio | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $54,923 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.7 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 4.95% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.86% | 2.16% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.25% | 10.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Tourism, Military | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Present | Significant |
Moving from San Antonio to Chicago, you will encounter a higher cost of living, particularly noticeable in housing and taxation. Chicago's state income tax and higher property tax rates contrast sharply with Texas' lack of state income tax and somewhat lower property taxes. However, the average household income in Chicago is higher, which can help mitigate some of the financial strain. Additionally, the industrial focus shifts from healthcare and tourism in San Antonio to finance, manufacturing, and tech in Chicago, demonstrating a diversified economic landscape that might offer new job opportunities. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your move.
San Antonio vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
In planning your move from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL, understanding the local culture is crucial. This guide provides a comparison of the politics and religions between San Antonio & Chicago , giving you a glimpse into the communities you're transitioning between. By comparing these elements, you'll better grasp the social fabric of your new home.
| San Antonio | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democrat | Strongly Democrat |
| Local Politics | Focus on Military and Veterans Affairs | Emphasis on Social Justice and Environmental Policies |
| Religion | Christianity Dominant, with a strong Catholic presence | Diverse, with Christianity, Islam, Judaism, and others |
While both San Antonio and Chicago tilt towards the Democratic side politically, the intensity of their leanings and focal issues do differ. San Antonio has a strong military presence and thus, local politics often cater to veterans and military affairs. In contrast, Chicago's political scene is deeply engaged with social justice, environmental initiatives, and an array of progressive causes. Religion in San Antonio leans heavily towards Christianity, particularly Catholicism, reflecting Texas' southern roots. Chicago, showcasing its diverse population, hosts a wide variety of religious beliefs, including Christianity, Islam, Judaism, among others, making it a mosaic of cultural and spiritual practices. This diversity in both cities opens up a variety of communities and social groups for you to explore and become a part of.
San Antonio vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Antonio, TX, to Chicago, IL, requires understanding the stark contrasts in your daily commute and traffic conditions. This comparison will enlighten you on the traffic and transportation options between San Antonio & Chicago, providing a clearer picture of what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | San Antonio | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Yes |
While San Antonio offers a moderately easy driving experience with an average commute time of 25 minutes, Chicago's bustling city life extends the average commute time to 34 minutes. Traffic congestion is also notably higher in Chicago, ranking it an 8 out of 10, compared to San Antonio’s 6. However, the significant difference lies in the availability of public transit; Chicago boasts a comprehensive network, making it possible and, indeed, preferable to navigate the city without a car. Contrarily, in San Antonio, the limited public transit options make car dependency much higher. This stark contrast shows the necessity of adjusting your commuting habits and preferences when moving from San Antonio to Chicago.
