Best Anchorage to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Anchorage to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,754 mile move from Alaska to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 36 Anchorage to Chicago moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is 606 Movers, Inc.), how much the move costs (depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Anchorage compared to Chicago. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.
Best Anchorage to Chicago Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | The Moving Man | 7.80 | 8.91 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Air Van Moving | 6.80 | 6.98 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Royal Alaskan Movers | 6.45 | 6.71 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Anchorage guide.
Compare the 5 Best Anchorage to Chicago Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
606 Movers, Inc.
159 N Sangamon St Suite 300
Chicago, IL, 60607
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 moving...
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3476069 / 1139300 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Move-tastic!
3100 N Tripp Ave
Chicago, IL, 60641
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1906350 / 675927 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 28 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,866 (2023) |
The Moving Man
550 W 54th Ave
Anchorage, AK, 99518
About The Moving Man
The Moving Man is a family-owned and operated full-service moving company based in Anchorage, Alaska since 1992. Their service area includes...
Services
- Local Residential Moving
- Local Commercial Moving
- Out-of-State Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 807379 / 359080 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 55,000 (2018) |
Air Van Moving
209 Post Rd
Anchorage, AK, 99501
About Air Van Moving
Air Van Moving is a professional moving company that is based in Alaska and the Northwest. Whether it is across town,...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
- Long-Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 125012 / 118474 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
Royal Alaskan Movers
2216 N Post Rd
Anchorage, AK, 99501
About Royal Alaskan Movers
Royal Alaskan Movers is a professional moving company that has been serving clients in Anchorage, Alaska, and its surrounding areas since...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2077580 / FF-10566
725677 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 13 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 92,150 (2022) |
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.
Anchorage vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating from Anchorage, AK to Chicago, IL, comparing the local neighborhoods is a fantastic way to familiarize yourself with your new city. By seeing how your favorite Anchorage spot compares to a Chicago neighborhood, you can transition more smoothly and find a new favorite place that feels like home.
| Anchorage | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| South Addition | Lincoln Park | Vibrant, green spaces |
| Rogers Park | Edgewater | Diverse, near the water |
| Mountain View | Logan Square | Trendy, diverse community |
| Downtown Anchorage | The Loop | Urban heart, rich in culture |
| Turnagain | Lakeview | Residential, with a community feel |
| Government Hill | Ravenswood | Quiet, with historic homes |
| Hillside East | Bucktown | Artsy, with unique charm |
| Airport Heights | Irving Park | Family-friendly, accessible |
| Midtown | Wicker Park | Hip, with vibrant nightlife |
| Spenard | Pilsen | Cultural, with rich arts scene |
Imagine walking through the vibrant streets of Wicker Park, which mirrors the hip and bustling vibe of Midtown, Anchorage but with a distinctive Chicago twist. You can visit popular spots like the The Violet Hour for a unique cocktail experience or enjoy a day at Lincoln Park much like you would at one of South Addition's green spaces. Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood will remind you of Rogers Park in Anchorage, with its diversity and proximity to the water, but with the added charm of historic buildings and local spots like Hopleaf Bar. Transitioning from Anchorage to Chicago is about more than just a change of scenery; it's about finding new places to love that reflect the best parts of where you've been.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Anchorage to Chicago
Moving from one city to another involves weighing a number of factors to make an informed decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Anchorage, AK to Chicago, IL , helping you weigh both sides carefully before making your move.
Anchorage, AK- Harsh winters
- Remote location
- Higher cost of living
- Less diversity
- Limited cultural venues
Chicago, IL- Milder winters
- Better connectivity
- Lower cost of living
- Greater diversity
- Rich cultural scene
Chicago, IL- Urban landscape
- Less outdoor options
- Higher crime rate
- Higher population
- Noisier environment
Anchorage, AK- Natural beauty
- Outdoor lifestyle
- Lower crime rate
- Smaller population
- Quiet living
While Anchorage offers stunning natural beauty and an outdoor lifestyle that's hard to match, Chicago welcomes you with its vibrant cultural scene and more diverse culinary experiences. For instance, Chicago's Art Institute and Field Museum offer rich cultural and educational experiences that are unparalleled. Additionally, neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Wicker Park provide lush green spaces amidst the urban setting along with a plethora of dining options such as Girl & The Goat and Au Cheval for food enthusiasts. While moving to a significantly larger city may seem daunting, the opportunities to immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of experiences and communities in Chicago can be both exciting and rewarding.
Anchorage vs. Chicago Food Guide
Understanding the culinary landscape of a new city is pivotal, as food is a vibrant aspect of local culture and daily life. This guide serves as a comparison of the local cuisine between Anchorage & Chicago , ensuring you're well-informed about the diverse food scenes awaiting in your new home.
| Anchorage | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | King Crab | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Reindeer Sausage | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Halter Top Coffee | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Alaskan Blueberry Vegan Delights | Deep Dish Vegan Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Upon your arrival in Chicago, you'll immediately notice the city's vibrant and diverse food environment, a significant shift from Anchorage's more nature-centric offerings. Neighborhoods like the West Loop or River North are culinary hotspots, where you can dive into the heart of Chicago's foodie scene. Don't miss visiting Lou Malnati’s for an authentic taste of deep-dish pizza, a stark contrast to Anchorage's fresh seafood-centric dishes like King Crab. Additionally, Chicago's emphasis on vegan options and the abundance of food trucks promise an exciting exploration of flavors, catering to a wider variety of dietary preferences and introducing you to a dynamic urban eating experience quite different from Anchorage.
Anchorage vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Food plays an essential role in making an area feel like home. This comprehensive restaurant comparison Anchorage, AK to Chicago, IL will assist you in discovering new favorite eateries, leveraging your current favorites as a guide. Whether you're craving high-end dining experiences or looking for casual comfort food spots, this side-by-side match-up ensures a seamless culinary transition.
| Anchorage | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria | Pequod's Pizza | Both renowned for their unique and flavorful crusts |
| Simon & Seafort's | Shaw's Crab House | Each offering fresh, high-quality seafood with stunning views |
| Glacier BrewHouse | Revolution Brewing | Brewpubs that prioritize local ingredients and craft beers |
| Sushi & Sushi | Sushi-San | Both are beloved for the freshness of their sushi and creative rolls |
| Snow City Cafe | Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe | Famous for their breakfast menus and local vibes |
| Jens' Restaurant | avec | Unique menus that blend international cuisines using local ingredients |
| Orso | Eataly | Offering a range of Italian dishes with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients |
| The Crow's Nest | Signature Room | Both provide elevated dining experiences with panoramic views |
| Gwennie's Old Alaska Restaurant | Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Iconic spots known for hearty, comfort food and a rich history |
| Fat Ptarmigan | Piece Brewery and Pizzeria | A comparison of love for artisanal pizza and craft beer |
Exploring the dining scene in a new city can be one of the most exciting parts of a move. For example, seafood enthusiasts will feel right at home transitioning from Simon & Seafort's in Anchorage to Shaw's Crab House in Chicago, where the commitment to quality and ocean views echo familiar comforts. Meanwhile, fans of cozy, unique breakfast spots will find Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe in Chicago offers a similar charm and menu innovation as Anchorage's Snow City Cafe. Moreover, the transition from the craft beer-centric Glacier BrewHouse to Chicago's Revolution Brewing represents not just a change in location but an extension of the passion for local brewing excellence. These restaurant pairings ensure that, no matter your dining preference, you'll find a slice of home awaiting in Chicago's vibrant culinary landscape.
Ready to start your move?
Anchorage vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes between Anchorage, AK, and Chicago, IL is vital. This comparison aims to guide you through the differences in housing costs, architecture, walkability, and more, ensuring you make the best decision for your relocation.
| Comparison | Anchorage | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Rustic | Brick and Greystone |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Scenic views, privacy | Lake views, accessibility |
While both Anchorage and Chicago offer unique living experiences, they have notable differences. For example, Chicago's higher urban lifestyle score and walkability indicate a more dynamic city life, perfect if you enjoy exploring your neighborhood on foot or bike. The city's architecture, including its iconic brick and greystone buildings, contributes to Chicago's rich cultural tapestry. On the other hand, Anchorage's real estate market highlights features like scenic views and privacy, catering to those seeking a blend of modern living and the great outdoors. Deciding between the two will depend on your lifestyle preferences and priorities.
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.
Anchorage vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Anchorage, AK to Chicago, IL, understanding how the weather compares between these two cities is crucial. This comparison provides insight into what you can expect in terms of temperature, humidity, sunshine, and more, helping you prepare for your new home's climate.
Anchorage, AK
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Anchorage, AK
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Anchorage, AK
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Anchorage, AK
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Anchorage | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Avalanches | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Anchorage to Chicago, you'll notice a significant change in seasonal temperatures, especially during summer when Chicago experiences much warmer highs. While both cities experience diverse weather conditions, Anchorage has longer, more severe winters with greater snowfall. In contrast, Chicago gets more days of sunshine and experiences more varied natural disasters, including tornadoes. Furthermore, if you suffer from allergies, the types and intensity in Chicago might differ due to its higher humidity and different vegetation. Adjusting to these changes will be an important part of settling into your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Anchorage to Chicago
Moving from one place to another can significantly impact your finances. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income opportunities compare between Anchorage and Chicago is crucial when planning your move. This guide will help you see at a glance how your financial landscape might change.
| Comparison | Anchorage | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $86,654 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 128.4 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 4.95% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.18% | 2.10% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0% | 10.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Oil & Gas, Tourism, Military | Finance, Technology, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Reasonably affluent | Moderately affluent |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Significant |
In comparing financial elements between Anchorage and Chicago, it's clear that while Anchorage boasts a higher average household income and lacks state and sales taxes, the cost of living is also notably higher. However, Chicago presents a contrasting picture with its income and property taxes, alongside a hefty sales tax, yet offers a lower cost of living index. This difference is vital to consider, especially if you're inclined towards industries prominent in Chicago. Moreover, the rate of homelessness and poverty are critical social factors differing considerably between the two cities, reflecting on the broader socioeconomic environment you're moving into.
Anchorage vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider moving from Anchorage, AK to Chicago, IL, understanding the communities you'll encounter is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Anchorage & Chicago, highlighting similarities and differences to help you acclimate to your new home.
| Anchorage | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately conservative | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Divided city assembly | Dominantly Democratic city council |
| Religion | Mix with significant Christian presence | Diverse with a strong Christian base, including Catholicism |
While both cities embody a rich tapestry of cultures and beliefs, you'll find significant differences in the civic and religious landscapes that shape community life. Anchorage, with its moderately conservative leanings, presents a different political climate compared to Chicago's robust liberal and Democratic roots. This could reflect in local policies, social attitudes, and community engagements you'll experience. Religious diversity is present in both cities, with Christianity playing a significant role in community activities and the social fabric. Whether participating in local politics, seeking spiritual community, or exploring the nuanced diversity of your new city, embracing these differences will be key to your acclimation process.
Anchorage vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Anchorage, AK to Chicago, IL, it's essential to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options. This comparison will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between Anchorage & Chicago, ensuring you're fully prepared for your new city.
| Comparison | Anchorage | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
In Anchorage, the average commute time is significantly shorter than in Chicago, reflecting less traffic congestion. However, Anchorage scores lower on the availability of public transit, indicating a more car-dependent lifestyle. Conversely, Chicago's higher public transit score highlights a dense, well-connected urban environment where living without a car is much more feasible. While transitioning from Anchorage to Chicago, you'll find adapting to the extensive public transportation network – including buses, Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) trains, and bike-sharing programs – an essential part of navigating your new urban landscape.
Additional Resources
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