Best Alexandria to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the historic charm of Alexandria, VA, to the bustling streets of Chicago, IL, marks an exciting chapter in your life. You’re trading in the quaint cobblestones and riverside views of Old Town for the iconic skyline and deep-dish pizza of the Windy City. In navigating this significant life change, it’s crucial that you rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we use an unbiased ranking algorithm to help you find the best movers for your long-distance adventure, ensuring your transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Best Alexandria to Chicago Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Alexandria guide.
5 Best Alexandria to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About ARS Movers
ARS Movers is a top-rated, locally-owned moving company based in Herndon, Virginia, serving customers for over a decade. They offer a wide r...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving (Residential Moving)
- Long Distance Moving (Interstate Moving)
- Office Moving (Commercial Moving)
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business ...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
About Mic's Moving
Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and co...Read More >>
Services
- Local Move
- Long Distance Moving
- Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves
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
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.
Alexandria vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Are you planning a move and finding it challenging to visualize life in a new city? We've made the transition easier by providing a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Alexandria, VA & Chicago, IL . This guide aims to help you find a familiar community vibe in an unfamiliar city, using Alexandria's popular neighborhoods as a baseline to discover their Chicago counterparts.
| Alexandria | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Old Town | Gold Coast | Historic, upscale, waterfront views |
| Del Ray | Andersonville | Cozy, artsy, with a strong sense of community |
| Potomac Yard | South Loop | Modern, with new developments and amenities |
| West End | Lincoln Square | Diverse, family-friendly, with a mix of old and new |
| North Ridge | Ravenswood | Quiet, residential, with beautiful homes |
| Parker-Gray | Wicker Park | Hip, vibrant nightlife and creative scene |
| Eisenhower East | West Loop | Bustling, with a trendy food scene and sleek apartments |
| Rosemont | Roscoe Village | Charming, with a small-town feel in the city |
| Mount Vernon | Hyde Park | Historic, with a strong sense of community and cultural institutions |
| Beverley Hills | Lincoln Park | Green spaces, family-friendly, upscale |
For those accustomed to the picturesque waterfront views and historic charm of Old Town, Alexandria, moving to Chicago's Gold Coast will provide a seamless transition, with its similarly upscale feel and beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline. If the artsy, tight-knit community of Del Ray has been your home, Andersonville in Chicago will welcome you with open arms, offering unique shops and a strong sense of community. Meanwhile, South Loop's modern vibe echoes that of Potomac Yard, boasting new developments, amenities, and a bustling energy that will make residents feel right at home. Each neighborhood comparison has been thoughtfully selected to offer a slice of familiarity amid new adventures in Chicago, highlighting local attractions, parks, and restaurants that contribute to the unique character of each community.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Alexandria to Chicago
Moving from one city to another brings a mix of excitement and apprehension. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Alexandria, VA to Chicago, IL . By juxtaposing the pros against the cons and vice versa, these charts strive to provide a clear snapshot of what you might gain or lose in the transition.
Alexandria, VA- Higher living costs
- Smaller job market
- Less cultural diversity
- Fewer dining options
- Less public transportation
Chicago, IL- More affordable living
- Larger job market
- Greater cultural diversity
- More diverse cuisine
- Extensive public transit
Chicago, IL- Less historical depth
- Far from D.C.
- Busier, noisier city
- Colder winters
- More impersonal
Alexandria, VA- Rich historical sites
- Close to D.C.
- Smaller, quieter city
- Warmer winters
- Community feel
Moving from Alexandria to Chicago, you'll exchange the quaint, community-focused atmosphere typified by areas like Old Town Alexandria for the bustling, vibrant streets of neighborhoods such as Lincoln Park and Wicker Park. You might miss the warmth of Alexandria's winters, but Chicago's extensive public parks and beaches along Lake Michigan offer ample outdoor activities throughout the year. The Windy City's famed culinary scene, from deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's to innovative dining experiences in the West Loop, presents a significant upgrade in dining options. Additionally, Chicago's cultural diversity is reflected in its neighborhoods, festivals, and museums, enriching your experience far beyond what Alexandria could offer.
Alexandria vs. Chicago Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Alexandria, VA & Chicago, IL, aiming to give you a better understanding of what the food scene is like in these cities. Knowing the differences and similarities in their local cuisines is essential for anyone moving, as food plays a significant role in local culture and daily life.
| Alexandria | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Seafood (especially oysters) | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Virginia Ham | Italian Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Falafel | Chicago-Style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you move from Alexandria to Chicago, you'll notice quite a shift not just in the climate but also in the culinary landscape. While Alexandria boasts a rich seafood heritage, with spots like Hank's Oyster Bar drawing in locals and tourists alike, in Chicago, you'll find yourself diving into the world of deep-dish pizzas and Italian beef sandwiches. Neighborhoods like River North in Chicago are foodie havens, housing iconic restaurants such as Lou Malnati's for pizza lovers and Alinea for those seeking a Michelin-star experience. Moreover, Chicago's elevated vegan scene, featuring dishes like Seitan Wings, promises that there's something for every palate. Whether you're exploring the historic streets of Alexandria or navigating the vibrant urban sprawl of Chicago, both cities promise a rich tapestry of flavors and dining experiences to explore.
Alexandria vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Choosing a new favorite eatery can deeply enrich your relocation experience. By comparing top restaurants in Alexandria to their Chicago counterparts, we aim to make your transition smoother. Discover spots where culinary delights will make you feel right at home, despite the change in skyline.
| Alexandria | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Hank's Oyster Bar | GT Fish & Oyster | Renowned for its fresh seafood selection. |
| Vermilion | Girl & The Goat | Notable for inventive American cuisine. |
| Landini Brothers | Siena Tavern | Celebrated for its authentic Italian dishes. |
| Momo Sushi | Sushi-san | Known for high-quality, contemporary sushi. |
| Vola's Dockside Grill | The Hampton Social | Offers a vibrant, coastal atmosphere. |
| Brabo | Bavette's Bar & Boeuf | Famous for its steak and French-inspired menu. |
| Taqueria Poblano | Big Star | A go-to for authentic Mexican street food. |
| Del Ray Cafe | Lula Café | A farm-to-table experience with a focus on sustainability. |
| Evening Star Cafe | The Publican | Known for its farm-to-table American fare. |
| Fontaine | Mon Ami Gabi | Classic French bistro with a warm atmosphere. |
Each restaurant listed not only offers a taste of home but also an opportunity to explore the local flavors of your new city. For instance, diving into the fresh seafood at GT Fish & Oyster can remind you of the oceanic delights back at Hank's Oyster Bar in Alexandria. Meanwhile, authentic Italian cuisine lovers who cherished Landini Brothers will find comfort in the hearty, traditional dishes served at Siena Tavern in Chicago. These establishments not only promise quality dining experiences but also a bridge between your old and new homes through culinary exploration.
Ready to start your move?
Alexandria vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. Through a detailed comparison, we aim to highlight the differences in housing between Alexandria and Chicago, covering cost, architecture, and lifestyle aspects.
| Comparison | Alexandria | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Federal | Victorian, Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic charm, proximity to D.C. | Lake views, access to public transit |
In delving deeper into the real estate contrasts, Alexandria's market is noted for its historic Colonial and Federal-style homes, often highlighting its rich history and closeness to Washington D.C., a significant draw for many. Chicago, on the other hand, offers a more diverse architectural palette, including Victorian and contemporary designs, with many properties boasting stunning lake views and excellent public transit links. The higher walkability and bikeability scores in Chicago reflect its urban density and well-developed infrastructure, making it a vibrant place for those seeking an active urban lifestyle.
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.
Alexandria vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When moving from one city to another, understanding the weather changes is crucial for adapting to your new environment. The weather comparison between Alexandria, VA, and Chicago, IL, sheds light on the climatic differences you'll experience, helping you prepare better for your relocation.
Alexandria, VA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Alexandria, VA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Alexandria, VA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Alexandria, VA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Alexandria | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Floods | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When comparing the weather of Alexandria, VA, to Chicago, IL, it's evident that Chicago experiences colder winters with more snowfall, averaging 36 inches annually compared to Alexandria's 13.8 inches. This significant difference highlights the need for warmer clothing and potential adjustments to daily routines during winter months. Alexandria, on the other hand, enjoys milder winters but faces a higher risk of hurricanes and floods as natural disasters. The humidity levels and days of sunshine are relatively close in both cities, although Alexandria slightly edges out Chicago in terms of sunnier days. Understanding these nuances will help you adapt more smoothly to your new home's climate.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Alexandria to Chicago
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how your finances will be affected. This comparison of money and finance between Alexandria and Chicago is designed to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of income, taxes, living costs, and more.
| Comparison | Alexandria | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $101,162 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 5.75 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.80 | 2.10 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Defense, Information Technology | Manufacturing, Retail, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Wealthy | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Higher |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Noticeable |
While Alexandria boasts a higher average household income and lower rates of poverty and homelessness compared to Chicago, it's also significant to note the stark differences in living costs and taxes. The cost of living index in Alexandria is substantially higher, which could offset the benefits of a higher income. Additionally, Chicago's notably higher sales and property taxes could impact your budgeting. These factors underline the importance of considering all aspects of financial life when moving, beyond just the average income differences.
Alexandria vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Alexandria, VA to Chicago, IL, understanding the landscape of your new home is crucial. This guide offers a comparison of the politics between Alexandria & Chicago , providing a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of these cities, so you can better anticipate the community you're about to join.
| Alexandria | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Progressive with strong union influence |
| Religion | Mix of religions, with notable Christian and Muslim communities | Diverse religious landscape with a strong presence of Catholic, Jewish, and Muslim communities |
Moving from Alexandria to Chicago, you'll find yourself transitioning from one Democratic-leaning community to another that is significantly more ingrained in Democratic values, possibly due to Chicago's long history of labor unions and social activism. The political landscape is deeply progressive in both cities, but Chicago's local politics are markedly influenced by powerful unions. Religious diversity is a common thread between the two, offering a rich blend of cultural practices and places of worship. Whether you’re accustomed to the religious mix found in Alexandria or are looking forward to exploring Chicago's vibrant religious scene, including the historic Catholic cathedrals, iconic Jewish synagogues, and profound Muslim centers, you'll find both cities welcoming and accommodating.
Alexandria vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Alexandria, VA to Chicago, IL introduces major changes in your daily routine, particularly when it comes to commuting. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Alexandria & Chicago is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic conditions will be like after your move.
| Comparison | Alexandria | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | With Difficulty | Yes |
When transitioning from Alexandria to Chicago, it's crucial to note the differences in your potential daily commute. Chicago has a slightly longer average commute time and higher traffic congestion. However, the Windy City excels in public transportation options, scoring a high 9 out of 10, making it more feasible to live without a car compared to Alexandria. The availability and efficiency of Chicago's transit system can significantly alleviate the challenges presented by heavier traffic, providing a comprehensive network of buses and trains that make commuting and exploring the city more accessible.
Popular Alexandria, VA to Illinois Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes
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