Best Mobile to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Mobile to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 887 mile move from Alabama to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 36 Mobile 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 (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Mobile 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 Mobile 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 | Big Fish Moving Company | 8.89 | 9.02 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Eastern Shore Transfer | 7.65 | 8 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 6.69 | 5.74 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Mobile to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 887 miles from Mobile, AL to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,536 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Mobile to Chicago move is roughly $6,088. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,705 | 300 ft³ | 5.68 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,536 | 450 ft³ | 5.63 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,188 | 750 ft³ | 5.58 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,088 | 1100 ft³ | 5.53 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,775 | 1600 ft³ | 5.48 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,782 | 1800 ft³ | 5.43 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Mobile guide.
Compare the 5 Best Mobile 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) |
Big Fish Moving Company
Daphne, AL, 36526
About Big Fish Moving Company
Big Fish Moving Company is your source for reliable residential and commercial moving services in Pensacola, Florida and Alabama Gulf Coast...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3369561 / 1080120 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 32,476 (2023) |
Eastern Shore Transfer
25421 AL-181
Daphne, AL, 36526
About Eastern Shore Transfer
Eastern Shore Transfer is a professional moving and storage company based in Daphne, Alabama, with additional locations in the Baldwin, Mobile,...
Services
- Antique Delivery & Relocation
- Local & Long Distance Residential Moves
- Local & Long Distance Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2644092 / 1020428 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 125,000 (2022) |
Two Men and a Truck
3759 Government Blvd
Mobile, AL, 36693
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck is a well-established nationwide moving and storage company that started in the 1980s. The Mobile franchise,...
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 930909 / 401062 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 24 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (2023) |
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.
Mobile vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be an adventurous yet daunting task, especially when moving to a city with a vastly different landscape. To ease this transition, we’ve crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods between Mobile, AL & Chicago, IL . Using Mobile’s neighborhoods as a reference, we'll introduce you to similar Chicago neighborhoods, helping you find a new place that feels like home.
| Mobile | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown Mobile | Andersonville | Vibrant community, historic charm |
| Spring Hill | Lincoln Park | Upscale, green spaces |
| Old Dauphin Way | Wicker Park | Historic homes, artsy vibe |
| West Mobile | Rogers Park | Diverse, family-friendly |
| Downtown Mobile | The Loop | Urban core, cultural sites |
| Ashland Place | Gold Coast | Exclusive, historic district |
| Oakleigh Garden District | Old Town | Charming, old-world feel |
| Cottage Hill | Bucktown | Trendy, creative community |
| Rickarby | Bridgeport | Working-class roots, community-oriented |
| Navco | Pilsen | Vibrant arts scene, cultural heritage |
In the heart of Andersonville, you'll find a vibrant community reminiscent of Midtown Mobile, complete with historic charm and a thriving local business scene, including unique spots like Women & Children First bookstore. If the lush green spaces and upscale vibe of Spring Hill appealed to you, Lincoln Park, with its own Lincoln Park Zoo, vast parklands, and rows of historic homes, will feel familiar. For those drawn to the artsy and historic elements of Old Dauphin Way, Wicker Park offers a similar vibe with a rich array of boutiques, galleries, and venues like Subterranean for music lovers. Each Chicago neighborhood has its unique charm, mirroring the diversity found within Mobile's own communities, ensuring that no matter where you come from, you'll find a piece of home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Mobile to Chicago
Moving from Mobile, AL to Chicago, IL can be a transformative experience. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation. By contrasting the cons of leaving Mobile with the pros of settling in Chicago, and vice versa, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of what to expect from your new city.
Mobile, AL- Smaller job market
- Minimal public transit
- Fewer cultural outlets
- Lower walkability
Chicago, IL- Larger job market
- Extensive public transit
- Rich cultural scene
- High walkability
Chicago, IL- Cold winters
- Higher cost of living
- Noisy urban setting
- More anonymous living
Mobile, AL- Warmer winters
- Affordable housing
- Quiet suburban areas
- Close-knit community
Chicago's rich cultural scene presents a stark contrast to Mobile's more laid-back lifestyle. You'll find yourself exploring world-class museums like The Art Institute of Chicago and enjoying the vast array of live music venues scattered around neighborhoods such as Wicker Park and Logan Square. The extensive public transit system, including the 'L' train, significantly eases movement across the city, unlike in Mobile where options are more limited. Yet, Chicago's winters can be brutally cold, a significant shift from Mobile's milder climate. Familiarizing yourself with indoor activities and city parks like Millennium Park can help make those cold months more enjoyable. Despite the challenges, adapting to Chicago's vibrant urban setting opens up a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Mobile vs. Chicago Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Mobile & Chicago, illustrating the rich diversity and cultural significance of food in these areas. Understanding the local food scene is essential when relocating, as it plays a significant role in the day-to-day experience and lifestyle in a new city.
| Mobile | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Gumbo | Deep-dish pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Shrimp and grits | Italian beef |
| Most popular street food item | Oyster po'boy | Chicago-style hot dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Okra gumbo | Seitan wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you plan your move from Mobile to Chicago, you'll find both cities have distinct but appealing food scenes. In Mobile, the coastal influence is evident with dishes like gumbo and oyster po'boy, epitomizing the Gulf Coast's rich seafood tradition. These can typically be enjoyed in the downtown area, where establishments like Wintzell's Oyster House have been staples for years. Chicago, on the other hand, offers an urban culinary adventure, with deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs standing as iconic representations of the city's love for rich and flavorful comfort foods. Exploring neighborhoods like the West Loop or River North will lead you to some of the city’s top eateries, such as the world-renowned Alinea or the quintessential Lou Malnati's Pizzeria. Whether it's Mobile's seafood delights or Chicago's hearty classics, both cities offer vibrant food scenes that cater to a diverse palate.
Mobile vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Making a new city feel like home often boils down to finding your new go-to spots for food and drink. This restaurant comparison chart offers a culinary bridge between Mobile and Chicago, steering you towards eateries in the Windy City that mirror the flavors of your Mobile favorites.
| Mobile | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| NoJa | Alinea | Both offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on inventive dishes. |
| Wintzell's Oyster House | Half Shell | Known for their raw oysters and classic seafood offerings, similar to Wintzell's. |
| Callaghan's Irish Social Club | The Gage | Both are beloved for their lively atmosphere and hearty, comfort foods. |
| Dauphin's | Signature Room | Each boasts stunning city views alongside a menu of sophisticated American cuisine. |
| Felix's Fish Camp | Shaw's Crab House | Specializes in seafood dishes that evoke the ambiance of a classic fish camp. |
| Meat Boss | Smoque BBQ | Both are highly praised for their authentic, regional BBQ and casual vibe. |
| The Noble South | Big Jones | Southern cooking with a focus on sustainability and heritage recipes. |
| Saisho | Omni | Innovative Japanese cuisine, presenting a modern approach akin to Saisho's menu. |
| Dumbwaiter Restaurant | Girl & The Goat | Offers a similar eclectic menu and a buzzing, innovate dining scene. |
| Spot of Tea | Brunch | A beloved brunch spot offering a diverse menu and comparable charm. |
In your quest to find eateries in Chicago that resonate with your Mobile dining experiences, places like Alinea and Half Shell stand out for their gourmet offerings and comfort food respectively, mirroring the upscale and casual vibes of NoJa and Wintzell's Oyster House. Similarly, the family-friendly and spirited environment of The Gage offers a sense of community akin to that of Callaghan's Irish Social Club. On the other hand, if it's the blend of superb cuisine and an impressive view you're after, the Signature Room can offer an experience reminiscent of Dauphin's soaring city vistas. Each Chicago establishment captures the essence of its Mobile counterpart, promising to make your culinary transition as seamless as your move.
Ready to start your move?
Mobile vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison will spotlight the differences in housing between Mobile, AL, and Chicago, IL, covering essential aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
| Comparison | Mobile | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Antebellum and Victorian | Skyline dominated by high-rises and modern designs |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, historical features | Lake views, proximity to public transport |
The cost of living in Chicago is considerably higher than in Mobile, reflected in both the median home price and rent. Those moving to Chicago will need to adjust their budget accordingly. Chicago's higher walkability and bikeability scores indicate a vibrant urban lifestyle, with easy access to amenities and public transport. This contrasts with Mobile's more laid-back atmosphere, where spacious homes and historical charm are more common. Notably, Chicago's real estate listings frequently highlight lake views and the convenience of nearby public transport, showcasing the city's dynamic living environment.
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.
Mobile vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When relocating from Mobile, AL to Chicago, IL, understanding the weather differences between these two cities is crucial for a smooth transition. Comparing the climate characteristics , such as temperature ranges and precipitation, will help you adjust to what you are accustomed to in Mobile versus what to expect in Chicago .
Mobile, AL
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Mobile, AL
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Mobile, AL
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Mobile, AL
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Mobile | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Floods | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Transitioning from Mobile’s warm, humid climate to Chicago’s variable, four-season weather can be striking. In Mobile, you're likely used to hot summers and mild winters, but in Chicago, winters can be harsh, with significant snowfall and much lower temperatures. While both cities enjoy plenty of sunny days, Chicago has fewer sunshine days on average. Another critical adjustment will be the change in natural disaster preparedness; moving from a hurricane-prone region to an area where winter blizzards and tornadoes are more common. Understanding these differences is key to preparing for life in a new city.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Mobile to Chicago
When contemplating a move from Mobile, AL, to Chicago, IL, understanding the financial landscape of your new city is essential. This comparison chart highlights the key financial differences between Mobile and Chicago , providing insight into average household income, cost of living index, and more . These metrics are crucial for budget planning and setting realistic expectations for your move.
| Comparison | Mobile | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $43,786 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 5% | 4.95% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.54% | 2.02% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10% | 10.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Aerospace, Shipbuilding, Healthcare | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
The shift from Mobile to Chicago will present a noticeable change in the cost of living, highlighted by the higher cost of living index in Chicago. However, this is set against a backdrop of higher average household income and major industries, potentially offering more lucrative employment opportunities. The stark contrast in property tax rates indicates a significant adjustment in housing costs, which is a critical factor to consider when budgeting for your move. Notwithstanding the financial adjustments, moving to a city with a diverse and booming job market like Chicago's could pave the way for improved economic wellbeing and career growth.
Mobile vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
Looking to move from Mobile, AL to Chicago, IL? Here's a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Mobile & Chicago to help you understand the sociocultural atmosphere you're moving into.
| Mobile | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Conservative-leaning | Liberal-leaning |
| Local Politics | Republican influence | Democratic stronghold |
| Religion | Christian majority, with a notable presence of Baptist and Methodist congregations | Diverse, but with a significant Catholic population and varied other faiths |
As you prepare to move from Mobile to Chicago, understanding the differences in cultural and social norms is crucial. Mobile's conservative leanings influenced by Republican policies contrast with Chicago's liberal environment and Democratic governance. Religion plays a significant role in Mobile's community life, primarily through Christian congregations, whereas Chicago offers a broader religious landscape reflecting its diverse population. Embracing these differences will be a key part of your transition, making your move an enriching experience.
Mobile vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Mobile, AL to Chicago, IL, it's essential to understand the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Mobile & Chicago . This will help you better anticipate what your daily commute and traffic experience might be like in either city.
| Comparison | Mobile | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Difficult | Yes |
In Mobile, you might find yourself relying more on a personal vehicle due to lower public transit scores, contrasting sharply with Chicago's robust transit system, which includes buses, trains, and bike-share programs. While Mobile's commute times are generally shorter, due in part to less traffic congestion, Chicago offers a breadth of public transit options making it feasible for many to get by without owning a car. Navigating the Windy City could be a significant shift if you're used to the more car-dependent lifestyle of Mobile.
Additional Resources
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Popular Mobile to Illinois Routes
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