Moving from Salt Lake City to Chicago?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Salt Lake City to Chicago Movers

Moving from the tranquil, expansive vistas of Salt Lake City, UT to the bustling, architectural grandeur of Chicago, IL is an adventure that’s both exhilarating and life-changing. You’re trading the serene 'Beehive State', known for its majestic mountains and the Great Salt Lake, for the 'Windy City', famed for its skyscrapers, deep-dish pizza, and vibrant cultural scene. Given the significant distance and logistical complexities of such a move, it’s crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we utilize an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best movers, ensuring your transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Salt Lake City guide.

5 Best Salt Lake City to Chicago Movers

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

#1
801 Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 412+ data points

Millcreek, UT
Packing services, Long-distance moves, Local moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/4/2024)

USDOT: 4140953 Verify

About 801 Moving Company

801 Moving Company has been serving the Salt Lake City Metro, UT area since 2008. Based in Salt Lake City, this moving company offers a rang...Read More >>

top 3 salt lake city 2024 801 moving company 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 >>

top 10 chicago 2024 606 movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in kankakee 2023 606 movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in park forest 2022 606 movers inc image
#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 >>

top 10 waukegan 2024 move tastic image
top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top 3 ranked movers in chicago 2023 move tastic image
#4
Best of Utah Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,595+ data points

Sandy, UT
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Office moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

USDOT: 2920944 Verify

About Best of Utah Moving Company

Best of Utah Moving Company is one of the top-rated local moving companies in Utah. It is fully licensed and insured and has been operating ...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in salt lake city 2023 best of utah moving company image
top 10 ranked movers in salt lake city 2022 best of utah moving company image
#5
You Move Me Salt Lake City Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,566+ data points

Woods Cross, UT
Local Moving Services, Long-Distance Moving Services, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 1/25/2024)

USDOT: 3820939 Verify

About You Move Me Salt Lake City

You Move Me Salt Lake City is a top-rated local moving company offering a wide range of services such as packing, moving, and providing movi...Read More >>

top 10 salt lake city 2024 you move me salt lake city image
top 10 ranked movers in riverdale 2023 you move me salt lake city image

Relocating from Salt Lake City to Chicago Neighborhood Guide

When making a big move, familiarizing yourself with your new city can be daunting. This guide aims to ease the transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Salt Lake City, UT & Chicago, IL . We've matched the top neighborhoods in Salt Lake City with their Chicago counterparts to help you find your new home.

Salt Lake CityChicago
The AvenuesGold Coast

Historical charm, luxurious

Sugar HouseWicker Park

Hip, vibrant community

9th & 9thAndersonville

Quaint, diverse, trendy shops

DowntownThe Loop

Urban center, cultural attractions

Liberty WellsLogan Square

Residential, artsy vibe

Capitol HillLincoln Park

Green space, community feel

Harvard/YaleHyde Park

Academic, historic architecture

FoothillRogers Park

Diverse, near water

East BenchLakeview

Scenic, family-friendly

Marmalade DistrictBucktown

Creative, lively nightlife

As you delve deeper into the character of these neighborhoods, notable local flavors emerge. In Wicker Park, you'll find similarities to Sugar House with its laid-back ambiance and unique boutiques like RSVP Gallery. Andersonville’s resemblance to 9th & 9th is uncanny, with a focus on independent businesses, such as the famous Women & Children First Bookstore. For those who enjoy the cultural and urban mix of Downtown Salt Lake City, the Loop in Chicago will impress you with landmarks like the Art Institute of Chicago and Millennium Park. This side-by-side exploration reveals not just the physical similarities of these neighborhoods, but the heartbeat of communities that could soon feel like home.

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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

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Salt Lake City to Chicago

Making a move from Salt Lake City, UT to Chicago, IL invites a significant lifestyle change. It's crucial to weigh both sides to see how the perks and drawbacks balance out. This comparison aims to highlight an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, laying out what you gain versus what you might miss.

CONs
PROs
Salt Lake City, UT iconSalt Lake City, UT
  • Smaller city feel
  • Less diverse cuisine
  • Lower nightlife variety
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant urban life
  • World-class dining
  • Rich entertainment scene
  • Extensive transit network
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Less access to nature
  • Higher crime rates
  • More impersonal
  • Higher cost of living
Salt Lake City, UT iconSalt Lake City, UT
  • Outdoor adventures
  • Lower crime rates
  • Friendly community
  • Lower living costs

Moving from Salt Lake City to Chicago means trading the proximity to outdoor adventures in places like Zion National Park for the urban gardens and parks such as Millennium Park and its iconic "Bean." You'll swap the casual, low-key nightlife for a city that boasts some of the best jazz clubs in the country, such as the Green Mill. Dining out transforms as well; Chicago's culinary scene offers everything from Michelin-starred restaurants like Alinea to the deep-dish pizzas that make Chicago world-famous. However, it's important to note the shift from the more intimate community feel of Salt Lake City to the bustling, sometimes impersonal, vibes of city living in Chicago. Life in Chicago isn't just about the higher pace—it's about embracing a diverse, culturally rich environment that may come with a higher price tag but promises an enriching lifestyle change.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Salt Lake City to Chicago

When you're planning a move, it's essential to consider how the local food scene can influence your lifestyle and happiness. Food is a significant part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. For those considering relocating, we'll provide a comparison of the local cuisine between Salt Lake City & Chicago so you can be better informed about the food options awaiting you in your new city.

Salt Lake CityChicago

Most iconic local food item

Fry SauceDeep Dish Pizza

Most popular meat dish

Utah SconesItalian Beef

Most popular street food item

Breakfast BurritosChicago-style Hot Dog

Most popular vegan food

Mexican Quinoa SaladVegan Deep Dish Pizza

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Red Iguana
    2. Hire's Big H
    3. Siegfried's Delicatessen
    1. Lou Malnati's
    2. Alinea
    3. Portillo's

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

79

Foodie Scene

710

Vegan Friendly

78

In Salt Lake City, the unique blend of contemporary and traditional foods makes for an exciting culinary experience. For instance, Red Iguana’s vibrant Mexican dishes highlight the city’s love for diverse flavors, while Hire's Big H takes you back to American diner classics. Conversely, in Chicago, the iconic deep-dish pizza at places like Lou Malnati's offers a taste of the city’s rich food heritage. Chicago’s food trucks and street foods, especially the Chicago-style hot dog, provide a deep dive into the city’s bustling urban vibe. Whether you crave the soothing taste of vegan deep dish pizza or the tangy bite of a classic hot dog, Chicago’s neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Park are gourmand paradises waiting to be explored.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Salt Lake City to Chicago

Moving to a new city often means finding your new favorite spots to eat. This guide does exactly that, using Salt Lake City to Chicago restaurant comparison , to help you find your next go-to eateries. By matching top restaurants from your current city with their Chicago equivalents, settling in might just become a delicious adventure.

Valter's OsteriaMonteverde

Both offer exquisite Italian dishes with a personal touch.

Red IguanaFrontera Grill

Renowned for authentic Mexican flavors and vibrant atmosphere.

The Copper OnionGirl & The Goat

Innovative dishes that push the boundaries of American cuisine.

Ruth's DinerLou Mitchell's

A classic diner experience with a long history and hearty meals.

MazzaReza's Restaurant

Both specialize in Middle Eastern cuisine with an authentic taste.

Lucky 13Au Cheval

Famous for their burgers, promising a gourmet experience.

TakashiMomotaro

Premier Japanese dining, focusing on sushi and unique flavors.

PalletThe Publican

Known for their focus on farm-to-table dishes in a relaxed setting.

Settebello PizzeriaSpataro’s Pizzeria

Authentic Neapolitan pizza with a focus on quality ingredients.

Hires Big HPortillo's

Iconic for their burgers and hot dogs, offering a taste of tradition.

When it comes to finding a dining experience similar to what you've enjoyed in Salt Lake City, Chicago's vibrant restaurant scene is well-equipped to cater to your tastes. For example, those who loved the authentic Italian meals at Valter's Osteria will feel right at home in Monteverde’s inviting atmosphere, where the pasta is hand-crafted and the ingredients are thoughtfully sourced. Fans of the iconic Red Iguana will find solace in Frontera Grill’s equally compelling Mexican cuisine, where the dishes burst with authentic flavors. Meanwhile, lovers of The Copper Onion’s innovative approach to American cuisine will discover a fresh favorite in Girl & The Goat, where the menu is both adventurous and grounded in familiar comfort. Chicago's diverse culinary landscape ensures that every Salt Lake City transplant finds a spot that feels like home.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Salt Lake City to Chicago

When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide compares Salt Lake City, UT and Chicago, IL , focusing on housing characteristics that matter most to newcomers.

While Salt Lake City's housing market typically offers properties with more space and mountain views, its median home price is surprisingly higher than Chicago's. Chicago, on the other hand, is renowned for its rich architectural history and urban vibes, having a higher walkability score. The demand in Chicago for lake views and proximity to an extensive public transit system like the Chicago Transit Authority reflects the city's dense, urban layout. This contrast underlines the varied lifestyles and preferences catered to by each city's real estate market.

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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 Salt Lake City to Chicago

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how your daily life might change with the weather. In comparing Salt Lake City and Chicago, this guide aims to present how the weather conditions and environmental factors will differ, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new surroundings.

Summer icon
90F / 62F

Salt Lake City, UT

85F / 65F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
37F / 22F

Salt Lake City, UT

32F / 18F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
16.1"

Salt Lake City, UT

36.89"

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
56.2"

Salt Lake City, UT

36"

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Salt Lake City to Chicago, the immediate differences you'll notice are in the humidity and the winter temperatures. Salt Lake City has drier air year-round, which can be a significant change from Chicago's higher humidity levels. Despite Chicago having a reputation for cold winters, Salt Lake City experiences a similar chill but with much more snowfall, ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. One aspect to remember is the number of sunshine days; Salt Lake City outshines Chicago, which might affect your outdoor activities and mood. Additionally, the types of natural disasters and allergens differ due to the geographical and climatic differences between the two cities, necessitating some adjustments in preparedness and health care approaches.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Salt Lake City to Chicago

When considering a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to provide a deeper insight into how living costs, taxes, and the overall economy between Salt Lake City and Chicago might affect your finances. It's essential to grasp these differences to plan effectively for your relocation.

Relocating from Salt Lake City to Chicago, it's essential to prepare for a potential adjustment in your financial plans. The average household income is notably lower in Chicago, which may influence your budgeting. However, this discrepancy could be counterbalanced by opportunities in Chicago's top industries like Finance and Manufacturing. Another significant financial factor is Chicago's higher average sales and property taxes, which can impact your overall cost of living. Understanding these differences can lead to a smoother transition and help you make informed decisions about your relocation.

Political & Religious Comparison between Salt Lake City, UT and Chicago, IL

In this guide, we offer a quick, at-a-glance snapshot designed to help you understand the comparison of the politics between Salt Lake City & Chicago . This comparison aims to provide insights into the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities, assisting you in getting a feel for your potential new community.

Salt Lake CityChicago

Political Make-up

Moderate, with liberal leanings in urban areasStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Focus on local governance, community developmentHighly active, wide range of policies including public education and healthcare improvements

Religion

Largely Latter-Day Saints (Mormon) influenceDiverse, with a significant Catholic population

When you move from Salt Lake City to Chicago, you'll experience a shift not only in the political landscape but also in the religious composition of the community. Salt Lake City’s political environment, though moderate, is significantly influenced by the presence of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Meanwhile, Chicago's political scene is characterized by its firm Democratic inclination and active local politics focusing on a broad spectrum of policies from public education to healthcare, reflecting the city's diverse socioeconomic makeup. The religious scenery also transitions from the predominantly Latter-Day Saints community in Salt Lake City to a more varied religious landscape in Chicago, where Catholicism plays a significant role alongside other faiths. This mosaic of political and religious backgrounds contributes to the rich cultural tapestry that defines life in Chicago.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Salt Lake City to Chicago

As you consider moving from Salt Lake City, UT, to Chicago, IL, it's vital to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Salt Lake City & Chicago will prepare you for the changes in your daily travel.

Salt Lake CityChicago
2234

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

68

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

58

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

It's challengingYes, with more ease

Can you get by without car?

Moving from Salt Lake City, where the average commute time is around 22 minutes, to Chicago, which sees an average of 34 minutes, will significantly impact your daily schedule. Chicago's higher traffic congestion level reflects its larger population and denser urban environment. However, the silver lining in this transition is the enhanced availability and efficiency of public transit in Chicago. Here, the reliance on a personal vehicle is reduced, thanks to a more comprehensive transit system, including buses, trains, and bike-sharing programs, making it easier for you to adapt to a car-free lifestyle if you choose.

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