Best Wilmington to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Wilmington to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 753 mile move from Delaware to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 55 Wilmington 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 EverSafe Moving Co.), 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 Wilmington 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.

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Best Wilmington to Chicago Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1EverSafe Moving Co.9.509.5Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2606 Movers, Inc.9.369.27Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHGContact
4English Moving9.209.22Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Forward Moving LLC9.119.22Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Wilmington to Chicago

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 753 miles from Wilmington, DE to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,422 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Wilmington to Chicago move is roughly $5,809. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,629300 ft³5.43
1 Bedroom$2,422450 ft³5.38
2 Bedrooms$3,998750 ft³5.33
3 Bedrooms$5,8091100 ft³5.28
4 Bedrooms$8,3701600 ft³5.23
5+ Bedrooms$9,3261800 ft³5.18
*Please note: These Delaware to Illinois moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Delaware & Illinois. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed DE to IL mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Wilmington guide.

Compare the 5 Best Wilmington to Chicago Movers

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

EverSafe Moving Co. Logo

EverSafe Moving Co.

Exceptional9.50/10
based on 2,941+ data points

8701 Torresdale Ave

Philadelphia, PA, 19136

About EverSafe Moving Co.

Founded in 2011, EverSafe Moving has built a reputation in the Greater Philadelphia area for courtesy, care, and quality due to...

Services

  • Local Movers
  • Long-distance Movers
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261303 / 771755

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved15,000 (2021)
View Full Review
1
606 Movers, Inc. Logo

606 Movers, Inc.

Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,152+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Move-tastic! Logo

Move-tastic!

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 10,649+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers28
Total Annual Miles Moved90,866 (2023)
View Full Review
3
E

English Moving

Exceptional9.20/10
based on 616+ data points

1254 Decatur St

Camden, NJ, 08104

About English Moving

English Moving & Hauling is a moving company based in Camden, New Jersey, offering local moving services within 25 miles of...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Packing & Unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/26/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3544042 / 1184398

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved15,513 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Forward Moving LLC Logo

Forward Moving LLC

Exceptional9.11/10
based on 1,124+ data points

245 Welsh Pool Rd

Exton, PA, 19341

About Forward Moving LLC

Forward Moving LLC is a residential and commercial moving company based in Exton. It specializes in both local and long-distance relocation,...

Services

  • Truck, POD or Storage Loading and Unloading
  • Professional Preparation
  • Interstate, Local & Long Distance Relocation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3078473 / 1021236

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved160,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Wilmington vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

This guide helps you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare popular neighborhoods to find the closest similar neighborhood between Wilmington, DE & Chicago, IL .

WilmingtonChicagoHow They're Similar
Trolley SquareLakeviewTrendy, vibrant nightlife
Trinity VicinityLincoln ParkHistoric homes, urban feel
The HighlandsLogan SquareRising arts scene
Brandywine HillsRavenswoodFamily-friendly, green spaces
RiverfrontRiver NorthUrban, riverfront dining
BrowntownHumboldt ParkDiverse community, cultural vibe
Forty AcresAndersonvilleQuaint, independent shops
BellefonteEdgewaterResidential, near lakeshore
Little ItalyLittle ItalyCulinary hotspot, rich history
Wawaset ParkHyde ParkInstitution-rich, leafy streets

If you enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Trolley Square, you'll find a similar energy in Lakeview, Chicago, where trendy bars line the streets near Lake Michigan. History buffs drawn to the historic homes of Trinity Vicinity might be captivated by Lincoln Park in Chicago, which boasts elegant architecture and lush greenery in locations like Lincoln Park itself. For those who cherish the arts scene found in Wilmington's The Highlands, Logan Square offers a comparable experience, featuring galleries and music venues that infuse the area with creativity. Families will love Brandywine Hills for its parks and children's play areas; similarly, Ravenswood in Chicago provides family-friendly amenities with charming streets and inviting community parks. And if the bustling urban riverfront of Wilmington's Riverfront is your go-to for dining and entertainment, River North in Chicago offers an urban experience with an array of waterfront eateries and cultural attractions.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Wilmington to Chicago


Moving from Wilmington, DE to Chicago, IL can be a mix of excitement and challenge. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. It highlights the contrasting aspects between life in Wilmington, DE and Chicago, IL to ensure you are well-informed about what lies ahead.

CONs
PROs
Wilmington, DE iconWilmington, DE
  • Limited nightlife
  • Fewer job opportunities
  • Small airport
  • Less public transport
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse job market
  • Large international airport
  • Comprehensive transit system
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher cost of living
  • Hectic pace
  • Anonimity in crowds
  • Harsh winters
Wilmington, DE iconWilmington, DE
  • Lower cost of living
  • Quieter lifestyle
  • Close community feel
  • Mild winters


While Wilmington, DE offers a cozier, slower-paced lifestyle with a lower cost of living, moving to Chicago presents opportunities to explore a more dynamic and bustling environment. Chicago's neighborhoods, like Wicker Park, offer vibrant nightlife and cultural diversity. Additionally, the comprehensive public transportation system, including the iconic Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), provides unparalleled ease of access across the city. Be prepared for the invigorating hustle of areas like The Loop, with its world-class restaurants and attractions including the famous Millennium Park. However, consider the difference in climates, as winters in Chicago are known to be challenging, so bundle up and stay warm while enjoying everything this vibrant city has to offer.

Wilmington vs. Chicago Food Guide

Exploring the local cuisine can offer insight into a region's culture and lifestyle. Whether you're used to scrapple in the First State or deep-dish pizza in the Windy City, food can play a huge role in your day-to-day experience. Let’s compare the local cuisine between Wilmington & Chicago to better inform your culinary journey as you consider relocating.

WilmingtonChicago
Most iconic local food itemScrappleDeep-dish pizza
Most popular meat dishChicken and dumplingsItalian beef sandwich
Most popular street food itemSoft pretzelsChicago-style hot dog
Most popular vegan foodGrilled vegetable paniniVegan Chicago-style pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Grotto Pizza
  • Deerfield Fine Dining
  • BBC Tavern & Grill
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Diving deeper into Chicago's dynamic food scene, it's clear that the city offers a bustling and diverse culinary landscape. Neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Logan Square are known for an eclectic mix of eateries and offer thrilling dining experiences, showcasing iconic dishes like the Chicago-style hot dog and various vegan-friendly options. Renowned establishments such as Giordano's set the bar for deep-dish pizza, epitomizing local flavor. Meanwhile, Portillo's is famous for its Italian beef sandwiches, drawing food lovers from across the city. If you're passionate about food trucks, Chicago's vibrant city streets, especially around the Loop, offer an impressive range of mobile culinary creations.

Wilmington vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

Food is a pivotal factor in making any area feel like home, and by comparing the top dining spots in Wilmington and Chicago , you can discover your new favorite eateries, using Wilmington as a familiar guide. This comparison makes transitioning from Wilmington, DE to Chicago, IL a delightful culinary journey.

WilmingtonChicagoWhat You'll Love
La FiaGirl & the GoatBoth offer innovative American fare with a twist.
Mrs. Robino'sRosebud on TaylorTraditional Italian dishes embodying family recipes.
Kid Shelleen'sAu ChevalBoth places are celebrated for their iconic burgers.
Bardea Food & DrinkAbaMediterranean-inspired menus with modern flair.
DECO Food HallRevival Food HallOffers a variety of casual eats under one roof.
Domaine HudsonThe PublicanBoth offer elevated dining experiences with an extensive wine list.
Pizza by ElizabethsPiece Brewery and PizzeriaA blend of creative pizzas crafted with local ingredients.
The Green RoomThe Lobby at the PeninsulaBoth offer elegant, fine dining atmospheres.
Scalessa’s “My Way” Old School Italian KitchenCarmine'sHome-style Italian comfort food, just like mama used to make.
Big Fish Grill on the RiverfrontShaw’s Crab HouseRenowned for their seafood selections and vibrant settings.

When craving Italian classics, look no further than Carmine's in Chicago, reminiscent of Wilmington's Scalessa’s “My Way”, where homestyle Italian flavors warm the heart and soul. Experience the vibrant dining scene at Revival Food Hall in Chicago, echoing the spirit of Wilmington’s DECO Food Hall, with its eclectic mix of culinary delights. For seafood enthusiasts, Shaw’s Crab House in Chicago awaits to mirror the delectable offerings of Wilmington’s Big Fish Grill on the Riverfront, each plate presenting freshness and flavor that are simply unforgettable.

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Wilmington vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's essential to understand how the housing markets in Wilmington and Chicago compare before making a decision. This comparison will cover various factors, including costs, architecture, and lifestyle features.

ComparisonWilmingtonChicago
Typical Architecture StyleColonialModern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingHardwood floors, Historic detailsRooftop deck, Open concept

When considering a move from Wilmington to Chicago, you’ll notice significant differences in housing costs and styles. Wilmington offers a more affordable median home price and rental costs, with a charm rooted in its colonial architecture and historic details. On the other hand, Chicago's higher prices are often reflected in its modern architectural designs, frequently boasting desirable features such as rooftop decks and open concepts. Chicago also scores significantly higher in walkability and urban lifestyle, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a bustling city environment. These factors should be considered against your personal preferences and daily lifestyle needs, especially if you value proximity to urban amenities like the vibrant Chicago downtown area.

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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.

Wilmington vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

If you're moving from Wilmington, DE to Chicago, IL , it's important to understand the weather dynamics in each location. Being informed will help you better prepare for the expected changes in climate, allowing for comfortable planning and transitioning. Below is a comparison of key weather elements that highlight the contrasts between Wilmington and Chicago .

Summer icon
87/70

Wilmington, DE

84/66

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
43/26

Wilmington, DE

33/19

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
44

Wilmington, DE

38

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
20

Wilmington, DE

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWilmingtonChicago
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersFloods, HurricanesTornadoes, Blizzards
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving to Chicago from Wilmington, you will notice a more pronounced difference in seasonal temperatures, especially during winter. Chicago is characterized by colder winters with significant snowfall, whereas Wilmington tends to have milder winter conditions. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in Chicago, contributing to the more extreme cold and hot days. In terms of natural disasters, Chicago is more prone to tornadoes and blizzards, contrasting with Wilmington's susceptibility to hurricanes and flooding. These variations underscore the need to adapt to a climatic shift that affects daily activities, lifestyle, and even health considerations, such as managing seasonal allergies.

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

If you're relocating from Wilmington, DE to Chicago, IL , understanding how the cost of living compares to what you're used to is crucial for effective financial planning.

ComparisonWilmingtonChicago
Avg. Household Income$55,136$66,576
Cost of Living Index105.2116.9
State Income Tax6.6%4.95%
Avg. Property Tax0.60%2.10%
Avg. Sales Tax0%10.25%
Top 3 IndustriesPharmaceuticals, Finance, EducationFinance, Manufacturing, Technology
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateHigh
HomelessnessLowModerate

Moving from Wilmington to Chicago involves adjusting to differences in cost structures and economic conditions. Despite Wilmington's higher average household income, Chicago's diverse industries, like finance and technology, present promising employment avenues. Illinois's state income tax rate is lower than Delaware's, but Chicago's property and sales taxes notably surpass those in Wilmington. Additionally, Chicago has a higher cost of living index, illustrating the balance between vibrant opportunities and potentially higher expenses.

Wilmington vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison


Thinking of relocating from Wilmington, DE to Chicago, IL? This brief guide offers a comparison of the political and religious makeup between Wilmington & Chicago , giving you a quick snapshot to help understand the cultural landscape of your new home.

WilmingtonChicago
Political Make-upPredominantly DemocraticHeavily Democratic
Local PoliticsActive City CouncilStrong Mayoral Influence
ReligionDiverse, with a strong Christian presenceHighly diverse, including significant Muslim, Jewish, and Buddhist communities


As you prepare for your move, it's important to understand the political atmosphere you'll be stepping into. Wilmington is known for its predominantly Democratic leanings with an active city council that has significant say in local matters. Meanwhile, Chicago is widely recognized as a Democratic stronghold where the mayor plays a critical role. If you're involved with faith-based groups, you'll find that Wilmington has a strong Christian community, while Chicago offers a rich tapestry of religious diversity including Muslim, Jewish, and Buddhist communities. Exploring these differences can deepen your understanding of both cities' cultural dynamics.

Wilmington vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When relocating from Wilmington, DE to Chicago, IL, it's important to grasp the differences in daily commuting and traffic patterns you'll encounter. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Wilmington & Chicago will help you plan your journey and daily routines effectively.

ComparisonWilmingtonChicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2235
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

Transitioning to Chicago from Wilmington means adjusting to longer commute times and higher traffic congestion. While Wilmington's lower congestion may be a relief, the robust public transit system in Chicago could make your daily travels less stressful. If you're used to driving in Wilmington, you'll appreciate Chicago's extensive public transit network, which offers more freedom and efficiency, reducing the need for a personal car. As you navigate through this bustling metropolis, consider how this shift in commuting methods can vastly improve your urban mobility and lifestyle. Whether it's hopping on the Chicago Transit Authority lines or utilizing the city's bike-sharing services, you'll find numerous options to explore your new city efficiently.

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