Moving from Spokane to Chicago?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Spokane to Chicago Movers

Moving from Spokane, WA to Chicago, IL marks an exciting chapter in your life, teeming with the promise of new adventures and opportunities. As you bid farewell to Spokane's comforting provincial charm and natural beauty, the bustling, wind-swept streets of Chicago, with its iconic deep-dish pizza and towering skyscrapers, beckons. Understanding the logistical complexities of this long-distance transition underscores the importance of partnering with trusted and reliable professional movers, a commitment we uphold at Great Guys Moving, ensuring your journey to the Windy City is as seamless as possible.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Spokane guide.

5 Best Spokane to Chicago Movers

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

#1
606 Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,152+ data points

Chicago, IL
Residential Movers, Commercial Movers, Packing & Unpacking Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in kankakee 2023 606 movers inc image
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#2
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 9/10/2024)

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 >>

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top 3 ranked movers in chicago 2023 move tastic image
#3
Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,004+ data points

Post Falls, ID
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/25/2022)

USDOT: 3119758 Verify

About Lake Coeur d'Alene Movers

Lake Coeur d’Alene Movers is a premier moving company in North Idaho, offering services throughout the region. Voted Best Moving Company in ...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in spokane 2023 lake coeur dalene movers image
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#4
Spokane Pro Movers Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,526+ data points

Spokane, WA
On-Site Moves, Packing Services, Long Distance Move See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 3111146 Verify

About Spokane Pro Movers

With more than 800 moves completed and plenty of 5-star reviews, Spokane Pro Movers offers worry-free local, intrastate, and interstate relo...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in spokane 2023 spokane pro movers image
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#5
Movher Logo
Superb

based on 1,901+ data points

Spokane Valley, WA
Local Moving, Intrastate Moving, Interstate Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1972158 Verify

About Movher

Proudly female-owned, Spokane-based Movher adds some flair and plenty of personality to every moving job. Established in 2010, the locally-o...Read More >>

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Relocating from Spokane to Chicago Neighborhood Guide

When considering a move from Spokane, WA to Chicago, IL, understanding the local neighborhoods could help ease the transition. By comparing the most popular neighborhoods in Spokane with their Chicago equivalents, you can start to feel at home even before you arrive. This guide features a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Spokane, WA & Chicago, IL, facilitating a smoother adjustment to your new city.

SpokaneChicago
South HillLincoln Park

Both boast historic homes & expansive parks

Kendall YardsWest Loop

Trendy eateries and urban living

Perry DistrictAndersonville

Strong community vibe with unique shops

ManitoRoscoe Village

Family-friendly with a park-centric lifestyle

Browne's AdditionWicker Park

Cultural hub rich in history and arts

North Indian TrailSauganash

Residential with a suburban feel

ComstockBeverly

Affluent area with notable architecture

Corbin ParkOld Irving Park

Historic homes and community-centric

Five Mile PrairieEdgebrook

Quiet, family-oriented with green spaces

RiversideRiver North

Vibrant nightlife and artistic scene

For those drawn to the South Hill neighborhood of Spokane, with its expansive parks and historic homes, Chicago's Lincoln Park offers a similar allure. Lincoln Park is known for its large namesake park, which contains the free Lincoln Park Zoo, several museums, and a conservatory. Additionally, West Loop's Randolph Street mirrors the trendy culinary scene found in Kendall Yards, boasting some of Chicago's top dining spots like Girl & The Goat. Meanwhile, Andersonville, with its diverse array of independent businesses and strong sense of community, can give former Perry District residents a similar vibrant shopping and dining experience. Chicago's historic Wicker Park, comparable to Browne's Addition, serves as a cultural hub, offering an eclectic mix of art galleries, boutiques, and bars, with the 606 trail providing a unique urban escape for walking and biking. Transitioning from Spokane to Chicago, these neighborhood comparisons highlight a city rich in diversity, culture, and community.

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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

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Spokane to Chicago

Moving from Spokane, WA to Chicago, IL offers a unique opportunity to weigh both the positive and negative aspects of such a significant relocation. The following charts aim to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from Spokane to Chicago , highlighting the contrasts in lifestyle, climate, and opportunities each city offers.

CONs
PROs
Spokane, WA iconSpokane, WA
  • Smaller Job Market
  • Less Cultural Events
  • Lower Diversity
  • Less Public Transit
  • Minimal Nightlife
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Larger Job Market
  • More Cultural Events
  • Higher Diversity
  • Better Public Transit
  • Vibrant Nightlife
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • Less Outdoor Activities
  • Higher Crime Rates
  • More Traffic
  • Larger, More Anonymized Community
Spokane, WA iconSpokane, WA
  • Lower Cost of Living
  • More Outdoor Activities
  • Lower Crime Rates
  • Less Traffic
  • Smaller, Tight-Knit Community

When considering the move from Spokane, WA to Chicago, IL, it's essential to recognize the shift in lifestyle that accompanies such a transition. Chicago's bustling job market, for instance, may offer more opportunities in various industries compared to Spokane’s smaller market. The Windy City is renowned for its cultural vibrancy, hosting an array of events at venues like the Chicago Theater and numerous summer festivals that are far more frequent than Spokane's. Chicago's diverse culinary scene, exemplified by restaurants like Girl & the Goat, provides a stark contrast to the more limited dining options in Spokane. However, it's also worth noting that this comes with a trade-off, such as the higher cost of living and the bustling, sometimes overwhelming, pace of a large metro area. The plethora of parks and outdoor activities in Spokane, from the trails at Spokane River to the scenic views at Riverfront Park, represent a different kind of richness that urban life in Chicago can't quite replicate, despite its beautiful lakeshore and green spaces like Millennium Park.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Spokane to Chicago

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Spokane and Chicago, spotlighting the significant role food plays in the cultural fabric and living experience of a place. By comparing the two locations, you'll be better equipped to embrace the food scene in your new city.

SpokaneChicago

Most iconic local food item

Garbage PlateDeep Dish Pizza

Most popular meat dish

Prime RibItalian Beef

Most popular street food item

Fair-Style Turkey LegsChicago-Style Hot Dog

Most popular vegan food

Quinoa SaladSeitan Wings

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Frank's Diner
  • Santé Restaurant & Charcuterie
  • Clover
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

69

Foodie Scene

710

Vegan Friendly

69

Moving from Spokane to Chicago invites an exciting transition in your culinary journey. Spokane, known for its laid-back dining scene, offers unique dishes like the Garbage Plate and health-conscious fare such as quinoa salad. Iconic eateries such as Frank's Diner and Clover bring the local flavor to life. Meanwhile, Chicago's culinary landscape is vast, with deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs standing as undeniable symbols of the city. The vegan scene is bustling, highlighted by places like Vegan Plate that serve up mouthwatering dishes like seitan wings. Top it off with a visit to food trucks sprawling across the city, and you'll find an energy and diversity in Chicago's food scene that's hard to match. Whether savoring a prime rib in Spokane or dipping into the deep layers of a Chicago deep dish, your taste buds are in for a treat following this relocation.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Spokane to Chicago

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This comparison chart is designed to bridge the culinary gap between Spokane and Chicago, helping you find comparable restaurants in your new city. Let it guide you towards your next dining adventure, turning Chicago into a place that feels like home.

Cloak & DaggerAlinea

Experimental tasting menus and unique presentations

Wild Sage BistroGirl & The Goat

Inventive small plates in a chic, bustling space

Frank's DinerLou Malnati's Pizzeria

Historic spot known for deep-dish pizza

Italia TrattoriaSapori Trattoria

Cozy, romantic Italian dining with a comprehensive wine list

The Flying GoatPequod's Pizza

Famous for its caramelized crust pizza

Zona BlancaBig Star

A hip spot for tacos and whiskey

Durkin's Liquor BarThe Violet Hour

Speakeasy vibe with artisan cocktails

Casper FryLongman & Eagle

Modern takes on traditional dishes with a whiskey emphasis

Downriver GrillPublican

Quality meats and farmhouse fare in a communal setting

Atticus Coffee & GiftsIntelligentsia Coffee

Pioneers of the third-wave coffee movement

Exploring the culinary scenes in both Spokane and Chicago reveals interesting parallels. For instance, Alinea's innovative approach to modern cuisine with its visually stunning dishes and unique flavor combinations draws a remarkable similarity to Cloak & Dagger, renowned for taking dining to an art form in Spokane. On a more casual note, lovers of comfort food who cherished mornings at Frank's Diner in Spokane can find solace in the deep-dish delights of Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, where the rich history and the iconic Chicago-style pizza create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Meanwhile, the farm-to-table concept that distinguishes Wild Sage Bistro finds a spirited counterpart in Girl & The Goat's globally inspired dishes and vibrant setting, showcasing the best of what both Spokane and Chicago have to offer in terms of innovative, locally-focused dining experiences.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Spokane to Chicago

Real estate significantly impacts your moving decision. Understanding how Spokane and Chicago compare can ease your transition. This comparison sheds light on vital housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle, making your move smoother.

Comparing Spokane and Chicago reveals more than just the numbers; it highlights lifestyle differences. Spokane offers a more suburban feel with its large yards in quiet neighborhoods, appealing to those seeking space and tranquility. Chicago, on the other hand, pulses with urban energy, boasting lake views and excellent public transit access, ideal for those who thrive in a bustling city environment. The architecture in Spokane features charming Victorian and Craftsman styles, while Chicago is a showcase for modern and neoclassical design, reflecting its status as a hub of architectural innovation.

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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 Spokane to Chicago

When planning a move from one location to another, understanding how the weather compares to what you're accustomed to is essential. Comparing the weather conditions between Spokane and Chicago gives insight into the adjustments you'll need to make, highlighting differences in temperature, sunlight, and general climate . This comparison ensures you're well-prepared for your new environment.

Summer icon
85°F / 55°F

Spokane, WA

85°F / 65°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35°F / 22°F

Spokane, WA

33°F / 22°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
16.5

Spokane, WA

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
44

Spokane, WA

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Relocating from Spokane to Chicago, you'll find the summer temperatures quite similar, but winters in Chicago are slightly colder with more intense wind chills, often called the "Hawk" winds. Chicago receives more sunshine days per year than Spokane, which might be surprising given its reputation for gray winters. The humidity levels in Chicago are higher, contributing to colder winter feels and hotter summers. Both cities experience their fair share of natural disasters, with Spokane facing wildfires and heavy snow, while Chicago is more prone to tornadoes. Understanding these nuances will help you adapt more seamlessly to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Spokane to Chicago

When relocating, it's essential to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape between Spokane, WA, and Chicago, IL, will impact your wallet. This comparison aims to shed light on the economic differences to help you make an informed decision.

The comparison reveals significant financial nuances between Spokane and Chicago. Spokane's lack of state income tax offers an immediate advantage for your take-home pay, contrasting sharply with Chicago's flat-rate income tax. However, the higher average household income in Chicago might offset the tax disadvantage to some extent. The cost of living index further underscores Chicago's higher expenses, a crucial factor you should consider in your budget planning. While property and sales taxes are higher in Chicago, reflecting the city's economic profile, the difference in affluence and poverty levels between the two cities highlights the socio-economic disparities you'll encounter. Despite these differences, both cities boast robust economies with diverse industrial sectors, providing a range of employment opportunities.

Political & Religious Comparison between Spokane, WA and Chicago, IL

This quick guide offers an at-a-glance snapshot to help you compare the political and religious makeup between Spokane, WA, and Chicago, IL , before making your big move. From the general political leaning to local politics nuances and religious landscapes, this comparison aims to provide a clearer understanding of what to expect in your new city.

SpokaneChicago

Political Make-up

Leans conservativeLeans liberal

Local Politics

Mixed city councilDemocratic-dominated city council

Religion

Christianity predominant, other faiths presentDiverse religious landscape, Christianity major but strong presence of other faiths

In Spokane, the political landscape generally leans conservative, but its local politics show a more mixed scenario, reflecting a wide range of perspectives among its residents. The city's religious makeup is predominantly Christian, though you'll find a variety of other faiths represented, from Islamic Center of Spokane to the Temple Beth Shalom. Chicago, on the other hand, presents a very different picture with its strong liberal leanings, particularly evident in its overwhelmingly Democratic city council. The Windy City boasts a highly diverse religious landscape, from the landmark Saint James Cathedral to the historic K.A.M. Isaiah Israel Congregation, symbolizing its broad spectrum of faith traditions.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Spokane to Chicago

Moving from Spokane, WA, to Chicago, IL, means adapting to a new commuting landscape. This guide offers a brief comparison to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Spokane & Chicago. It aims to ease your transition and prepare you for the changes in your daily travel.

SpokaneChicago
2234

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

58

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingYes

Can you get by without car?

In Spokane, commuting is fairly straightforward with an average commute time of 22 minutes and lower traffic congestion levels compared to Chicago. However, public transit options are more limited, making it challenging to get around without a car. On the other hand, Chicago offers a robust public transit system with buses and trains providing extensive coverage across the city, making it entirely feasible to live without owning a car. The trade-off, however, is a higher average commute time and more significant traffic congestion. Adjusting to Chicago means planning for longer travels and leveraging the city's vast public transportation network.

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