Best Richmond to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Richmond, the heart of Virginia steeped in rich history, to Chicago, the Windy City known for its dazzling skyline and deep-dish pizza, marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're not just leaving behind the River City's cobblestone charm for Chicago's bustling streets and vibrant neighborhoods; you're embarking on a journey that promises new experiences and opportunities. Understanding the extent of this long-distance move, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. That's where we come in—Great Guys Moving ensures you're matched with the best, taking the guesswork out of who to trust with your precious belongings.
Best Richmond 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 |
| Estes SureMove | 9.21 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Two Men and a Truck | 8.96 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Cavalier Moving | 8.50 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Richmond guide.
5 Best Richmond 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 Estes SureMove
The most significant cause of stress when moving is the cost. Traditional full-service movers can take care of everything for you, but at th...Read More >>
Services
- Home moving
- Employee relocations
- Add-ons (such as same-day pickup)
About Two Men and a Truck
With over 30 years’ experience and 350 locations worldwide, Two Men and a Truck is a trusted name in the moving industry. Its Richmond locat...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
About Cavalier Moving
Established in Richmond in 2019, Cavalier Moving is not a novice in the moving industry. It’s backed by highly-experienced owners and profes...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Local 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.
Richmond vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. Our comparison of Richmond, VA & Chicago, IL local neighborhoods aims to familiarize you with your new city, using your current one as a baseline. Discover which neighborhoods in Chicago mirror those in Richmond to make your transition smoother.
| Richmond | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| The Fan | Wicker Park | Vibrant nightlife, historic architecture |
| Church Hill | Old Town | Charming, historic, with great dining options |
| Carytown | Andersonville | Unique shopping, eclectic food scene |
| Scott's Addition | Logan Square | Bustling with breweries, trendy restaurants |
| Shockoe Bottom | West Loop | Lively, with a mix of lofts and nightlife |
| West End | Lincoln Park | Family-friendly, affluent, green spaces galore |
| Northside | Rogers Park | Diverse community, close to the lake |
| Jackson Ward | Pilsen | Rich cultural arts scene and historic significance |
| Monroe Ward | The Loop | Urban, with a mix of entertainment and high-rises |
| Forest Hill | Beverly | Quiet, residential with a community feel |
In Chicago's Wicker Park, similar to Richmond's The Fan, you'll find an energetic atmosphere filled with historic homes and a thriving nightlife along Milwaukee Avenue. Carytown's distinctive shopping experience finds its match in Andersonville's Clark Street, where indie boutiques and diverse culinary options line the thoroughfare. For those who admire the breweries and modern dining spaces in Scott's Addition, Logan Square offers a comparable vibe with its creative eateries and craft beer scene, notably along Logan Boulevard. Meanwhile, Richmond's Shockoe Bottom's lively environment resonates with West Loop's dynamic mix of restaurants like Girl & the Goat and cultural hotspots, ensuring that your move between these cities is as seamless as your love for vibrant communities.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Richmond to Chicago
Moving from Richmond, VA, to Chicago, IL, involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on the good and bad attributes of relocating from Richmond to Chicago . By examining both the pros and cons, you can gain a better understanding of what to expect and how your life might change in the Windy City.
Richmond, VA- Smaller city vibe
- Less public transit options
- Milder winters
- Lower cost of living
- Fewer dining options
Chicago, IL- Larger urban atmosphere
- Extensive public transportation
- Vibrant cultural scene
- More job opportunities
- Diverse culinary experiences
Chicago, IL- Overwhelming hustle
- Heavier traffic congestion
- Colder, harsher winters
- Higher living costs
- Less personal dining
Richmond, VA- Quaint community feel
- Easier traffic navigation
- Warmer winters
- More affordable housing
- Rustic dining spots
While the hustle and size of Chicago might seem overwhelming at first compared to Richmond's more quaint community vibe, the Windy City brings its unique charm with vibrant neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Wicker Park. You’ll trade in Richmond’s easier traffic navigation for Chicago’s extensive public transit system, connecting you to diverse culinary experiences from the famed deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s to innovative dining experiences in the West Loop. Meanwhile, the transition from Richmond's milder winters to Chicago’s famously harsher ones is offset by the plethora of indoor cultural sites to explore, such as the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum. Despite the higher living costs, Chicago’s vast array of job opportunities in industries from tech to manufacturing presents a promising horizon for many.
Richmond vs. Chicago Food Guide
Understanding the culinary landscape of a new city is crucial for many movers. Food is a vibrant expression of local culture, uniquely capturing what it's like to live in an area. With this in mind, we’ll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Richmond & Chicago , providing insights to better inform you about the distinct food scenes awaiting in your new home.
| Richmond | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Virginia BBQ | Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Italian Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Chicken Sandwich | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit BBQ | Vegan Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
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| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In transitioning from Richmond to Chicago, you’ll find that while both cities take pride in their rich dining landscapes, the flavors and specialties offer exciting contrasts. Chicago's deep-dish pizza, an iconic dish with its thick crust and generous fillings, can be found in renowned spots like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria. Meanwhile, Chicago's street food scene boasts the legendary Chicago-style hot dog, a must-try experience in venues like Portillo's. For those inclined towards plant-based diets, Chicago's vibrant vegan scene offers innovative dishes like vegan deep-dish pizza, showcasing the city's inclusive culinary creativity. Whether it's exploring the high-end dining at Alinea or indulging in the local street food, Chicago’s food scene warmly welcomes all.
Richmond vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Food is a major factor in making a place feel like home, and finding new favorite eateries can be a thrilling adventure when moving to a new city. This restaurant comparison is designed to ease the transition from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL by matching you with similar dining experiences . Whether you're craving high-end cuisine, casual eats, or unique culinary experiences, this guide will help you discover your next favorite spot in the Windy City.
| Richmond | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| L’Opossum | Everest | Offers a similar high-end French dining experience |
| Mama J’s Kitchen | Virtue | Known for soulful Southern dishes, mirroring Mama J’s comfort food |
| Lehja | Vermilion | Innovative Indian cuisine with a modern twist |
| Edo’s Squid | Monteverde | Italian dishes with a focus on fresh pasta, akin to Edo’s Squid |
| ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque | Smoque BBQ | Authentic BBQ experience highlighting smoked meats |
| Stella’s | Greek Islands | Offers a traditional Greek dining experience similar to Stella’s |
| Peter Chang China Cafe | MingHin Cuisine | Both places specialize in regional Chinese cuisine |
| Joe’s Inn | Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria | For a comforting, casual dining experience with iconic dishes |
| Proper Pie Co. | Hoosier Mama Pie Company | Both excel in sweet and savory pies |
| Perly’s | Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen | Jewish deli offering a comparable dining experience to Perly’s |
Embarking on a culinary journey in a new city is an exciting aspect of moving. Chicago offers a diverse and vibrant food scene that closely mirrors the rich dining experiences found in Richmond. For instance, Everest in Chicago provides an exquisite fine dining experience with a French flair that is reminiscent of what one can expect at L’Opossum in Richmond, highlighting the ability to find top-tier culinary offerings in both cities. Smoque BBQ and ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque offer authentic barbecue experiences, making them must-visit spots for BBQ enthusiasts. Meanwhile, those looking for a cozy and comforting meal will find themselves at home in either Joe’s Inn in Richmond or Lou Malnati’s in Chicago, where the focus on creating a welcoming dining atmosphere is paramount. This guide not only bridges the culinary gap between the two cities but also showcases the unique, yet paralleled, restaurant scenes that make each city distinctive.
Ready to start your move?
Richmond vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Moving between cities can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding a new home. Real estate, encompassing aspects like costs, architecture, and lifestyle, plays a crucial role in this transition. Here we'll compare the housing characteristics of Richmond, VA and Chicago, IL to help you understand what to expect.
| Comparison | Richmond | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Victorian | Modern, Greystone |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Historic charm, large backyards | Lake views, proximity to public transit |
When examining housing options between Richmond and Chicago, it becomes evident that although Chicago has a higher average for both median home prices and rent, it offers more in terms of walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle scores. Chicago's architecture stands out with its modern and Greystone designs, catering to those who appreciate urban living with proximity to Lake Michigan and efficient public transit systems. On the other hand, Richmond's allure lies in its historic charm and typically larger living spaces. This comparison might help prioritize what aspects of housing are most important for your move.
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.
Richmond vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one location to another, it's crucial to know how the local climates compare. Understanding the differences in weather between Richmond and Chicago will help you adjust to your new environment more smoothly.
Richmond, VA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Richmond, VA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Richmond, VA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Richmond, VA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Richmond | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Floods | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Richmond to Chicago, you'll find the winters significantly colder with more snow, impacting driving and outdoor activities. Chicago's summer temperatures are slightly cooler, potentially offering a respite from Richmond's peak summer heat. However, Chicago has fewer sunny days annually, which might affect those used to Richmond's more frequent sunshine. The difference in average annual UV index suggests a need for less sun protection in Chicago, but it's still important to be cautious. Additionally, being aware of the seasonal allergies predominant in Chicago can help you prepare better if you are prone to allergies.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Richmond to Chicago
Moving between cities means adjusting to a new financial landscape. Understanding how the cost of living and taxes in Richmond compare to Chicago can greatly impact your budget and lifestyle. This comparison will give you a clearer picture of what to expect.
| Comparison | Richmond | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $51,770 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 104.5 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 5.75 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.8 | 2.1 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.3 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Government, Manufacturing | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Significant |
While Richmond boasts a slightly higher average household income than Chicago, the cost of living in Chicago is also higher, primarily due to increased property and sales taxes. This is an important consideration if you're planning to buy a home or make significant purchases. The state income tax is lower in Chicago, but this is offset by the city's higher living expenses. Additionally, both cities are economic hubs with diverse job markets, though Chicago has a more pronounced presence in the IT sector. Understanding these financial nuances will help you better prepare for your move.
Richmond vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL, it's invaluable to have a quick glimpse into the character of your prospective home. This comparison focuses on the politics between Richmond & Chicago and the religious landscape, providing a snapshot of the local demographic makeup.
| Richmond | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Democratic lean | Strong Democratic hold |
| Religion | Christianity predominant, with diverse faith communities | Christianity predominant, strong presence of diverse faiths including Judaism, Islam, and Buddhism |
Richmond and Chicago both boast liberal political landscapes, with a strong Democratic presence shaping local politics. This similarity underscores a potentially smooth transition for you politically. The religious makeup in both cities is predominantly Christian, but they celebrate a rich tapestry of faiths, contributing to the cities' diverse cultural fabric. Chicago, in particular, is noted for its significant representation of various religions, including sizeable Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities, enriching the city with a wide array of cultural and religious institutions.
Richmond vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
In preparing for a move from Richmond, VA, to Chicago, IL, it’s crucial to better understand the daily commute and traffic is like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Richmond & Chicago will help you navigate your new city more effectively.
| Comparison | Richmond | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
In Richmond, you might find the average commute time somewhat more bearable when compared to Chicago, with a notable difference in the daily time spent on the road. The need for a car in Richmond is emphasized by its lower public transit score and reduced traffic congestion. On the other hand, Chicago’s higher public transit availability reflects an infrastructure that supports a life without complete reliance on a car, despite the city’s higher congestion levels. This change means adjusting to potentially longer commutes but also having more alternatives to driving yourself everywhere.
Popular Richmond, VA to Illinois Moving Routes
Popular Moving Routes
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