Best Washington DC to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Washington DC to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 700 mile move from DC to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 54 Washington DC to Chicago moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC 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 Washington DC to Chicago Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Washington DC to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 700 miles from Washington DC, DC to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,376 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Chicago move is roughly $5,699. 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 | $1,599 | 300 ft³ | 5.33 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,376 | 450 ft³ | 5.28 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,923 | 750 ft³ | 5.23 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,699 | 1100 ft³ | 5.18 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,210 | 1600 ft³ | 5.13 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,146 | 1800 ft³ | 5.08 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Washington DC guide.
Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Chicago Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Bookstore Movers
5200 46th Ave
Hyattsville, MD, 20781
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2005212 / 707471 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 21 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,245 (2019) |
Mic's Moving
1250 9th st. nw
Washington DC, DC, 20011
About Mic's Moving
Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and...
Services
- Local Move
- Long Distance Moving
- Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2474176 / 856657 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2019) |
Ap Pro Moving Llc
5021 Seminary Rd # 822
Alexandria, VA, 22311
About Ap Pro Moving Llc
Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3338902 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 4,000 (2021) |
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) |
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.
Washington DC vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting. To help ease the transition, we’ve created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Washington DC, DC & Chicago, IL . This guide will map out the counterparts of your favorite Washington DC neighborhoods in Chicago, so you can find your new local hangout or home with ease.
| Washington DC | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Dupont Circle | Boystown | Vibrant LGBTQ+ community |
| Georgetown | Gold Coast | Historic, upscale area |
| Capitol Hill | Lincoln Park | Historic homes, green spaces |
| Adams Morgan | Wicker Park | Eclectic nightlife, arts scene |
| Columbia Heights | Logan Square | Diverse, community-focused |
| Navy Yard | South Loop | Modern, with waterfront views |
| Shaw | West Loop | Trendy, with a rich history |
| NoMa | River North | Industrial chic, nightlife |
| Foggy Bottom | Streeterville | Near universities, urban vibe |
| Woodley Park | Lakeview | Family-friendly, near parks |
For those enchanted by the historic charm and vibrant community of Capitol Hill, Lincoln Park offers a similar blend of history, green spaces, and beautiful homes, including the renowned Lincoln Park Zoo. If your weekends in Washington DC were spent exploring the eclectic nightlife and art scenes of Adams Morgan, then Wicker Park in Chicago awaits with its thriving local music venues, such as the Subterranean, and array of creative eateries. Lastly, for those who adore the waterfront views and modern amenities of Navy Yard, the South Loop in Chicago provides a similar ambiance with attractions like the Shedd Aquarium and proximity to the Lake Michigan shoreline, making it a prime spot for both leisure and sightseeing.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Chicago
Moving from one city to another brings a mix of feelings and a bundle of considerations. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Washington DC, DC to Chicago, IL. By weighing the pros against the cons and vice versa, this guide helps illuminate the path for those considering making this significant move.
Washington DC, DC- High living costs
- Humid summers
- Political focus
- Less public space
Chicago, IL- Lower living costs
- Cooler summers
- Broader industry base
- Abundant parks
Chicago, IL- Brutal winters
- Higher crime rates
- Less political engagement
- Fewer global cuisine options
Washington DC, DC- Rich history
- Diverse culture
- Political engagement
- More global cuisine
While Washington DC offers a rich tapestry of national history and a hotbed for political activism, the allure of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods, like the bustling streets of Lincoln Park or the vibrant cultural scene in Pilsen, offers a compelling contrast. Chicago's famed public spaces, such as Millennium Park, offer abundant outdoor activities compared to the more limited options in DC. Additionally, the cost of living in Chicago can be more manageable, allowing for a potentially higher quality of life without sacrificing the urban experience. On the other hand, those moving might miss DC's unparalleled access to global cuisine and the city's deeply rooted historical and cultural institutions.
Washington DC vs. Chicago Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Washington DC & Chicago, aimed at giving you a taste of what living in each city might be like, food-wise. Food is a crucial aspect of any locale's culture, and understanding the food scene can help you feel more at home in your new city.
| Washington DC | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Half-Smoke | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Mumbo Sauce Wings | Italian Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Jumbo Slice Pizza | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Kale Caesar Salad | Vegan Deep Dish Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Washington DC to Chicago, you'll find that both cities boast vibrant, diverse food scenes. In Washington DC, the bustling U Street Corridor is a must-visit for food lovers, especially with iconic spots like Ben's Chili Bowl serving up the legendary Half-Smoke. The city's food truck scene is notable, offering everything from Mumbo Sauce Wings to innovative vegan options. Moving to Chicago, you'll be stepping into a city where food is equally celebrated, from the famed deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's to the unique Chicago-style hot dogs found throughout the city, and notably at spots like Portillo's. Both cities are rich in culinary delights, ensuring you won't miss out on quality dining experiences as you transition from one vibrant food scene to another.
Washington DC vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering great places to eat that remind you of home. This comparison aims to ease the transition for those moving from Washington DC to Chicago by highlighting restaurants for every preference, whether high-end, casual, or iconic. Let's guide you to your new favorite eateries using your current favorites as a starting point.
| Washington DC | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Fiola Mare | Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Both offer exquisite seafood in an upscale setting. |
| Rose's Luxury | Giant | Offers a similarly eclectic and innovative approach to dining, with a cozy atmosphere. |
| Ben's Chili Bowl | Portillo's | Both are iconic spots known for their unique takes on American classics. |
| Zaytinya | The Purple Pig | While offering different cuisines, both restaurants excel in delivering a Mediterranean-inspired experience. |
| Le Diplomate | Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! | For a Parisian bistro experience with a Spanish twist, offering a similar vibe and quality of dining. |
| Bad Saint | Kasama | This Filipino restaurant offers a similar commitment to authentic culinary experiences, earning a Michelin star for its efforts. |
| Blue Duck Tavern | Longman & Eagle | Both offer farm-to-table American fare, emphasizing local and seasonal ingredients. |
| Little Serow | Galit | Both are celebrated for their bold flavors and innovative menus, focusing on northern Thai and Middle Eastern cuisines, respectively. |
| Kinship | Avec | Offers a refined yet approachable dining experience, focusing on the communal sharing of food. |
| Gravitas | Elizabeth | Both Michelin-starred, emphasizing innovative American cuisine with a focus on ingredients and creativity. |
When looking for a space that hits close to home, Joe's Seafood in Chicago mirrors Fiola Mare's commitment to delivering fresh, upscale seafood dining experiences, making it a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts. On the cozier side of dining, Giant's eclectic menu and intimate atmosphere offer a comforting echo to the beloved Rose's Luxury. For those seeking a taste of authenticity and innovation rolled into one, Kasama's Filipino cuisine, with its Michelin star recognition, stands as a testament to culinary excellence, reminiscent of Bad Saint's approach to Filipino dining. Each Chicago dining spot, much like its Washington DC counterpart, offers a unique story plated in each dish, promising an adventure for your taste buds and a warm welcome to your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Washington DC vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, evaluating real estate in Washington DC and Chicago is crucial. This comparison will help you understand the differences in housing costs, styles, and lifestyle between these two vibrant cities.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Federal | Modern, Chicago School |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to transit, Historic charm | Lake views, Green spaces |
In examining the housing aspects of Washington DC and Chicago, it's evident that your lifestyle and budget will significantly influence your decision. Washington DC's higher cost of living reflects in its real estate prices but offers a highly walkable cityscape steeped in historic charm and close proximity to government jobs. Chicago, while more affordable, boasts an impressive urban lifestyle with its own architectural flair and abundant green spaces, making it an appealing alternative for those valuing urban living without the Washington DC price tag.
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.
Washington DC vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
Moving from Washington DC, DC to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to understand how the weather will change. Knowing the differences helps you prepare for your new environment, ensuring a smoother transition.
Washington DC, DC
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington DC, DC
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington DC, DC
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Washington DC | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Floods | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When comparing weather patterns between Washington DC and Chicago, notable differences include the harsher winters you'll experience in Chicago, with significantly more snowfall and lower temperature averages. Summers in Chicago are somewhat similar to those in DC, though slightly cooler on average. Another important aspect to consider is Chicago's higher average humidity and fewer days of sunshine, which might affect outdoor activities and overall mood. Understanding these differences ensures you're better prepared for seasonal changes in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington DC to Chicago
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how your finances and cost of living in Washington DC will compare to Chicago, IL is crucial. This comparison will ensure you make informed financial decisions during your transition.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 4.0-8.95 | 4.95 (flat rate) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.56 | 2.10 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.0 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Professional Services, Education | Manufacturing, Retail, Healthcare |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
While both Washington DC and Chicago offer vibrant urban living, your financial experience will differ significantly between them. Despite the higher cost of living and income tax structure in DC, the average household income is also notably higher, which could offset these costs. However, Chicago's relatively lower cost of living and flat state income tax rate offer different financial advantages. Each city has its own economic characteristics, including the dominant industries which shape the job market. Understanding these financial nuances will help smooth your transition and allow for a better adjustment to your new home.
Washington DC vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Washington DC to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to understand not just the logistics, but also the community you're joining. This quick, at-a-glance snapshot offers insights into the comparison of the politics between Washington DC & Chicago, alongside a peek into the religious leanings of residents. It's designed to help you feel right at home, even before you arrive.
| Washington DC | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on federal government impact | Emphasis on city-level reforms and policies |
| Religion | Diverse, with a strong African American church presence | Diverse, with significant Catholic and Protestant communities |
While both cities lean strongly Democratic in terms of political makeup, the nature and focus of local politics can vary significantly. Washington DC's political climate is heavily influenced by its role as the nation's capital, with local politics often intersecting with federal government affairs. In contrast, Chicago's local politics are more centered around city-level reforms and championing policies that directly impact its residents. Furthermore, both cities boast diverse religious communities, with Washington DC having a notable African American church presence and Chicago being home to significant Catholic and Protestant communities. Understanding these dynamics can provide a richer context as you transition into your new home.
Washington DC vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Washington DC to Chicago involves adapting to new daily commutes and traffic patterns. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Chicago is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute and traffic will be like.
| Comparison | Washington DC | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.5 | 34.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | Yes, but less convenient |
In both Washington DC and Chicago, the average commute time hovers around 34 minutes, highlighting the importance of efficient daily travel plans. Washington DC boasts a slightly higher public transit score, thanks to its extensive Metro system, making it easier for residents to navigate the city without a car. Chicago, while also offering robust transit options like the 'L' train and buses, tends to rely more heavily on car travel outside the downtown area. Understanding these nuances will help you adjust your commute and travel plans accordingly.
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