Moving from Vancouver to Chicago?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Vancouver to Chicago Movers

Moving from the serene landscapes of Vancouver, WA to the bustling streets of Chicago, IL, marks an exciting chapter in your life, a journey brimming with new adventures and opportunities. Leaving behind the tranquil "Couve" for the vibrant "Windy City," with its iconic deep-dish pizza and towering skyscrapers, represents a significant change in scenery and lifestyle. Understanding the importance of this transition, we stress the necessity of entrusting your belongings to trusted and reliable professional movers, ensuring a seamless experience as you embark on this long-distance move.

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

5 Best Vancouver 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
top 10 ranked movers in park forest 2022 606 movers inc image
#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 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top 3 ranked movers in chicago 2023 move tastic image
#3
Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 605+ data points

Oregon City, OR
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Senior Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT: 1999959 Verify

About Northwest Grace Moving

Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland Metro...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in salem 2023 northwest grace moving image
top 10 ranked movers in salem 2022 northwest grace moving image
#4
All Service Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 9,065+ data points

Portland, OR
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1863079 Verify

About All Service Moving

Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By using a ...Read More >>

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top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top ranked movers in portland 2023 all service moving image
#5
Comfortable Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 691+ data points

Vancouver, WA
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long-Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/23/2022)

USDOT: 3236736 Verify

About Comfortable Moving

Comfortable Moving is a family-owned and operated moving business providing residential and commercial moving services since 2017. Based in ...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in vancouver 2023 comfortable moving image
top 3 ranked movers in vancouver 2022 comfortable moving image

Relocating from Vancouver to Chicago Neighborhood Guide

When considering a move, understanding how your new city compares to your current one can make the transition smoother. This guide helps you bridge that gap by comparing local neighborhoods between Vancouver, WA & Chicago, IL . Discover which Chicago neighborhoods mirror those in Vancouver, easing your search for a new home that feels familiar.

VancouverChicago
Fisher's Landing EastLakeview

Vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere

ArnadaWicker Park

Rich in local arts and eateries

ShumwayLincoln Square

Quaint and quiet, with a strong community feel

Carter ParkRoscoe Village

Serene, with a small-town vibe within the city

Downtown VancouverThe Loop

Heart of the city, abundant in shops and cultural spots

FelidaSauganash

Suburban feel, known for spacious homes and greenery

LincolnHyde Park

Rich historical backdrop with vibrant cultural institutions

HoughBucktown

Trendy with a mix of modern and traditional architecture

Esther ShortOld Town

Historic, with a strong sense of community and nightlife

RiveridgeEdgewater

Diverse, with lakeside views and cultural attractions

Delving deeper into the comparison, if you adore the lively, family-centric environment of Fisher's Landing East, Chicago's Lakeview will captivate you with its similarly vibrant atmosphere and plethora of family-friendly parks and activities. Fans of the bustling street festivals and local arts scene in Arnada will find Wicker Park a perfect match with its rich cultural fabric and indie shops. Meanwhile, the quaint, laid-back charm of Shumway closely echoes in Lincoln Square, where community bonds are strong, and local cafes and bookshops abound. For those attracted to the urban buzz and convenience of Downtown Vancouver, The Loop in Chicago offers an even grander scale of urban living, surrounded by iconic theaters, parks, and art installations like Cloud Gate. Hence, transitioning from Vancouver, WA, to Chicago, IL, can be an exciting journey of discovering neighborhoods that not only resemble but potentially enhance the living experience you’ve cherished.

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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 Vancouver to Chicago

Moving from one city to another brings a mixture of excitement and anxiety, as you weigh the pros against the cons. This comparison aims to give an honest reflection of both the good and the bad sides of relocating from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL. Understanding these aspects will help you make a more informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Vancouver, WA iconVancouver, WA
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Lower job opportunities
  • Less public transportation
  • Fewer entertainment options
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Larger, vibrant city
  • More diverse culture
  • Higher job market
  • Extensive transit options
  • Wider entertainment variety
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • More urban, less green
  • More crowded
  • Higher living cost
  • Can feel overwhelming
  • Harsher winters
Vancouver, WA iconVancouver, WA
  • Close to nature
  • Quieter lifestyle
  • Lower living cost
  • Smaller community feel
  • Mild weather

Moving from Vancouver, WA, presents opportunities to dip into the vibrant culture and dynamic job market of Chicago, IL. However, it’s not without its trade-offs, such as adjusting from the mild Pacific Northwest climate to Chicago's harsher winters. In Chicago, neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Park not only offer a variety of bars, restaurants like The Violet Hour, and sights such as the Lincoln Park Zoo but also showcase the city's architectural beauty and green spaces, albeit less expansive than Vancouver's natural surroundings. The transition from Vancouver's quieter, community-focused lifestyle to Chicago's bustling urban environment represents not only a change of scenery but an immersion into a city known for its rich history, diverse communities, and broad cultural offerings.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Vancouver to Chicago

Food significantly shapes the local culture and living experience in any area. In our guide, we'll embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between Vancouver, WA and Chicago, IL to equip you with a deeper insight into the culinary scenes of your current and future cities. This will help you navigate and appreciate the diverse food options available.

VancouverChicago

Most iconic local food item

SalmonDeep Dish Pizza

Most popular meat dish

Grilled SalmonItalian Beef Sandwich

Most popular street food item

Food Truck TacosChicago-style Hot Dog

Most popular vegan food

Tempeh BowlSeitan Wings

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Beachés Restaurant Cafe
  • The Grant House
  • Hudson's Bar and Grill
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Alinea
  • Portillo's

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

85

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

88

Exploring Vancouver's and Chicago's food scenes reveals distinctive flavors inherent to each city. In Vancouver, the emphasis on salmon reflects the Pacific Northwest’s rich marine life. You'll find exceptional seafood dishes, especially grilled salmon, across waterfront restaurants, with Beachés Restaurant Cafe and The Grant House being prime examples. Meanwhile, Chicago holds a legendary status for its deep-dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches. The iconic Chicago-style hot dog, typically topped with a heap of garnishments, is a must-try street food. Restaurants like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria and Alinea epitomize the city's diverse and sophisticated culinary landscape. Whether you're moving from the lush surroundings of Vancouver to the bustling streets of Chicago, your palate is in for a delightful transition.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Vancouver to Chicago

Discovering local eateries plays a crucial role in feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison will help bridge the gap between Vancouver and Chicago , guiding you towards finding your next favorite dining spots based on your Vancouver go-tos. Whether you're after high-end dining, a casual bite, or something uniquely foodie, this comparison will ease your culinary transition.

The Diner VancouverLou Mitchell's

Iconic diner experience

Beaches Restaurant & BarShaw's Crab House

Seafood and great views

Hudson's Bar & GrillThe Dearborn

Upscale tavern with American cuisine

Thai Orchid RestaurantSticky Rice

Authentic Thai cuisine

La BottegaEataly

Variety of Italian offerings

Joe's Crab ShackHalf Shell

Casual seafood dining

Woody's TacosBig Star

Tacos and whiskey

Tommy O's Pacific Rim BistroPacific Standard Time

West Coast vibes and flavors

BrickhouseGirl & The Goat

Innovative, eclectic dishes

Relevant CoffeeIntelligentsia Coffee

Artisan coffee shop

When the hunger for diverse and vibrant flavors hits, Chicago's culinary scene won't disappoint, especially when comparing it to what Vancouver, WA has nurtured in you. For example, should you find yourself reminiscing about the cozy, authentic bites at Thai Orchid Restaurant, Sticky Rice in Chicago will envelop you in similarly authentic Thai culinary delights, focusing on traditional recipes with a modern twist. Likewise, those unforgettable seafood experiences from Joe's Crab Shack can be recreated with a visit to Half Shell, where the casual vibe meets serious seafood goodness. And for those mornings when only a crafted coffee will do, the transition from Relevant Coffee in Vancouver to Intelligentsia Coffee in Chicago feels like trading one artisanal gem for another, ensuring your coffee ritual is in good hands.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Vancouver to Chicago

When planning a move, comparing the real estate markets of Vancouver, WA and Chicago, IL is crucial for making informed decisions. This comparison will provide insights into housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle scores to help you find your perfect home.

Considering a move, it's evident that Chicago offers a more urban lifestyle with higher walkability scores, reflecting its dense, city structure compared to Vancouver's suburban setting. Chicago's real estate highlights include properties with stunning lake views and excellent access to public transit, which are big draws for many. On the other hand, Vancouver's real estate appeals to those seeking spacious backyards and quieter neighborhood settings. The difference in median home prices and rent between the two cities further underscores the trade-offs between more affordable, suburban living in Vancouver and the vibrant, urban lifestyle that Chicago offers.

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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 Vancouver to Chicago

Moving from one place to another can significantly impact your lifestyle, especially when it comes to weather. If you're considering transitioning from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL, understanding how the climate differs could help you adjust more comfortably to your new environment.

Summer icon
79°F / 57°F

Vancouver, WA

85°F / 65°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
45°F / 36°F

Vancouver, WA

35°F / 22°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
41.5"

Vancouver, WA

36"

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4.3"

Vancouver, WA

36"

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Vancouver to Chicago, you'll notice some stark differences in weather patterns. Chicago experiences more sunny days yearly and markedly colder winters, often with substantial snowfall—a vast contrast to Vancouver's milder winters. Additionally, while both cities have a similar annual UV index, the types of natural disasters they're prone to vary significantly, with Chicago facing snowstorms and tornados, against Vancouver's potential for earthquakes and volcanic activity. Adjusting to Chicago's weather might involve preparing for colder winters and hotter summers, highlighting the importance of suitable clothing and home preparedness.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving from one city to another means navigating different financial landscapes. In this comparison, we help you understand how Vancouver, WA and Chicago, IL stack up in terms of money and finance. This will allow you to gauge how your financial health might be impacted by the move.

When comparing the financial aspects of living in Vancouver, WA, and Chicago, IL, it's not just about the numbers but the quality of life those numbers can afford you. For instance, Washington's lack of state income tax can be beneficial for your take-home pay versus the flat rate in Illinois. However, property and sales taxes in Chicago are higher, which could offset some of those savings. The average household income is higher in Vancouver, which, coupled with a slightly higher cost of living index, implies a relatively balanced economic environment. Industries in both cities offer diverse employment opportunities, but the difference in homelessness and poverty levels highlights varying urban challenges you might face.

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

This comparison aims to offer a quick snapshot, focusing on the politics between Vancouver & Chicago and the religious landscape, to give you an idea of the community vibes you'll encounter in each city.

VancouverChicago

Political Make-up

Leans DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Progressive on social issuesHistorically Democratic with powerful city politics

Religion

Mix, with Protestant and Catholic communitiesDiverse, significant Catholic presence alongside other faiths

Even though both Vancouver and Chicago lean Democratic in their political makeup, you'll find Chicago to be more strongly affiliated with the Democratic Party, reflecting in its local politics characterized by a long history of Democratic leadership. Whereas local politics in Vancouver are known to be progressive, especially on social issues, Chicago's political scene takes influence from its robust and historically significant city governance structures. Religious diversity is rich in both cities. However, Chicago stands out for its vibrant Catholic community alongside a mosaic of other faiths, reflecting the city's broader diversity. By understanding these nuances, you'll have a smoother transition in adapting to your new home.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Vancouver to Chicago

Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when relocating, especially when considering the differences between Vancouver, WA and Chicago, IL. This comparison aims to offer insight into what your daily travel might look like.

VancouverChicago
2535

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

68

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingYes

Can you get by without a car?

When moving from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL, you'll find that your commute time may increase, as Chicago's traffic congestion is notably higher. However, Chicago makes up for this with its robust public transit system, making it easier to get by without a car compared to Vancouver. In Chicago, you can rely on the Chicago Transit Authority for most of your commuting needs, thanks to the extensive network of buses and the 'L' train system. Meanwhile, in Vancouver, a car is more necessary due to less availability of public transportation options.

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