Best Miami to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Miami to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,359 mile move from Florida to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 66 Miami 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 Easy Florida Moving LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Miami 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 Miami to Chicago Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Easy Florida Moving LLC | 9.54 | 9.52 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Our Family Moving and Storage LLC | 9.54 | 9.24 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Dixie Movers | 9.52 | 9.58 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Miami to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,359 miles from Miami, FL to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,937 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Miami to Chicago move is roughly $7,069. 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 | $1,973 | 300 ft³ | 6.58 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,937 | 450 ft³ | 6.53 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,857 | 750 ft³ | 6.48 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,069 | 1100 ft³ | 6.43 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $10,202 | 1600 ft³ | 6.38 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $11,388 | 1800 ft³ | 6.33 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Miami guide.
Compare the 5 Best Miami to Chicago Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Easy Florida Moving LLC
This listing has been claimed by Easy Florida Moving LLC319 NW 10th Terrace
Hallandale Beach, FL, 33009
About Easy Florida Moving LLC
Easy Florida Moving LLC is a licensed and insured full-service moving company based in South Florida. Established in 2017, the company...
Services
- Long Distance Relocation
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving (in State)
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3064335 / 57089 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 80,000 (2023) |
Our Family Moving and Storage LLC
2455 Hollywood Blvd
Hollywood, FL, 33020
About Our Family Moving and Storage LLC
Based in Hollywood, FL, Our Family Moving and Storage is a local and family-owned moving business specializing in local and long-distance...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Local Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3374772 / 1082468 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 12,000 (2022) |
Dixie Movers
1000 W Pembroke Rd # 313
Hallandale Beach, FL, 33009
About Dixie Movers
When it was founded in 2015, Dixie Movers handpicked all of the good things about the moving industry and left out...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long distance moving services
- Commercial moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3080327 / 66319 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 80,000 (2023) |
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.
Miami vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into the unknown, but finding a neighborhood that feels familiar can make the transition easier. To help you in this journey, we'll compare popular neighborhoods in Miami, FL & Chicago, IL to showcase their closest equivalents. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant nightlife, artistic communities, or quiet streets, you'll find a piece of Miami in Chicago.
| Miami | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut Grove | Andersonville | Eclectic, tight-knit community vibe |
| Brickell | The Loop | High-rise living, heart of business |
| Wynwood | Wicker Park | Artsy, with vibrant street murals |
| Miami Beach | Lakeview | Proximity to water, bustling nightlife |
| Coral Gables | Lincoln Park | Historic homes, lush greenery |
| Design District | West Loop | Hub for fashion and design |
| Little Havana | Pilsen | Rich cultural heritage, vibrant food scene |
| Key Biscayne | Rogers Park | Tranquil, with access to water |
| Midtown | Fulton Market | Trendy eateries, urban vibe |
| South Miami | Hyde Park | Academic atmosphere, community focus |
If the artsy vibe and vibrant street art of Wynwood are what you love, Wicker Park in Chicago will resonate with you with its creative energy and mural-adorned streets. For those accustomed to the relaxed yet upscale atmosphere of Coconut Grove, Andersonville's eclectic and welcoming community is a perfect match, offering unique shops and a strong sense of camaraderie among residents. And if the beachside charm and animated nightlife of Miami Beach are what you'll miss, Lakeview in Chicago provides a similar proximity to water and a bustling social scene, with landmarks like Wrigley Field adding to its allure. In each of these comparisons lies a promise of finding a new home without leaving behind what you loved most about your old one.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Miami to Chicago
Moving from Miami, FL to Chicago, IL illuminates a spectrum of lifestyle changes. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, juxtaposing the attributes of both cities to give you a clearer picture of what awaits.
Miami, FL- High humidity
- Hurricane risk
- Cost of living
- Less public transit
Chicago, IL- Seasonal variety
- Lower natural disaster risk
- More affordable housing
- Better public transit
Chicago, IL- Colder winters
- No beaches
- Different food scene
- Seasonal changes
Miami, FL- Vibrant nightlife
- Beaches
- Diverse cuisine
- Year-round warmth
Moving from Miami's sun-drenched beaches and vibrant nightlife to the culturally rich and architecturally historic city of Chicago offers a dramatic change of scenery. In Chicago, you'll experience a delightful seasonal variety, from the blooming flowers of Millennium Park in spring to the picturesque snow at Millennium Park Ice Skating Rink in winter. Despite the loss of year-round warmth, Chicago's renowned food scene, represented by establishments like Au Cheval Diner for their world-class burgers, offers comfort during the colder months. Whether you're exploring the lush landscapes of Lincoln Park or indulging in the arts at The Art Institute of Chicago, the city's efficient public transit system makes it easy to experience all that Chicago has to offer.
Miami vs. Chicago Food Guide
Understanding local cuisine is key to experiencing a city's culture. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Miami & Chicago, helping you navigate the culinary scene of your new home with ease.
| Miami | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cubano Sandwich | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Ropa Vieja | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Churros | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Guava & Cheese Pastelitos (Vegan Version) | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Miami's food scene is vibrant, with the Versailles Restaurant in Little Havana serving as a landmark for Cuban cuisine. Churros and Cubano sandwiches feed the colorful street food scene. On the flip side, Chicago's love for deep-dish pizza shines at places like Lou Malnati's, while the Italian beef sandwich remains a local staple. The Windy City's food trucks and restaurants, such as Portillo's, cater to a crowd that appreciates both innovation and tradition in its food culture. Moving to either city will be an exciting culinary adventure, with plenty of options to explore, whether you're vegan, a meat lover, or somewhere in between.
Miami vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Understanding the importance of dining options is key when relocating. Food often makes a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Miami and Chicago will help guide you in finding new favorite spots that reminisce the essence of your current Miami favorites.
| Miami | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Joe’s Stone Crab | Shaw's Crab House | Classic seafood experience capturing the essence of coastal dining |
| Zuma | Momotaro | Japanese cuisine with a modern twist and aesthetic surroundings |
| Versailles | 90 Miles Cuban Café | Authentic Cuban dining experience in a casual setting |
| Mandolin Aegean Bistro | The Greek Islands | Traditional Greek dining with a homely feel |
| Yardbird Southern Table & Bar | Big Jones | Southern comfort food with a focus on sustainability and tradition |
| The Surf Club Restaurant | Aba | Mediterranean style and ambiance with emphasis on seafood and steak |
| Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market | GT Fish & Oyster | Fresh seafood with an innovative menu and waterfront vibes |
| El Palacio de los Jugos | Cafecito | Burst of Cuban flavors in a quick-service setting |
| Macchialina | Spiaggia | Elegant Italian dining with a modern approach |
| KYU | Girl & The Goat | Inventive small plates with eclectic global influences |
Exploring these culinary parallels will seamless transition your gastronomic experiences from the vibrant streets of Miami to the bustling avenues of Chicago. For example, the transition from the iconic Joe’s Stone Crab to Shaw's Crab House ensures that the love for exquisite seafood remains uninterrupted. The vibrant Cuban culture present in Miami through Versailles finds a comforting echo in Chicago’s 90 Miles Cuban Café, ensuring your palate never misses the flavors of home. Similarly, the modern Japanese fare at Zuma is mirrored by Momotaro in Chicago, where the sophistication and culinary innovation continue to thrive. Venturing into these establishments will not just satiate your cravings but also weave you into the fabric of your new city, one meal at a time.
Ready to start your move?
Miami vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly influences making the jump from one city to another. It's crucial to understand how Miami and Chicago stack up in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle to make an informed decision for your move. Below, we offer a comparison that highlights these essential differences.
| Comparison | Miami | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Art Deco, Mediterranean | Prairie, Chicago School |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Ocean view, pools | Lake view, rooftop decks |
Miami and Chicago offer distinct living experiences shaped by their unique environments and cultures. The sun-soaked shores of Miami Beach contrast with the urban allure of downtown Chicago, with their architecture reflecting such differences—Miami's vibrant Art Deco and Mediterranean styles versus Chicago's historical Prairie and iconic Chicago School. These architectural distinctions are not just aesthetic but influence the lifestyle, from the balmy, outdoor-centric life in Miami to Chicago's urban, community-oriented atmosphere. Moreover, the higher urban lifestyle rating in Chicago is indicative of a more densely packed cityscape, offering a tapestry of cultural, dining, and entertainment options more concentrated than Miami's sprawling layout.
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.
Miami vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move, understanding how the weather in Miami compares to Chicago is crucial. This comparison will help you grasp the climatic changes to expect, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new surroundings.
Miami, FL
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Miami, FL
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Miami, FL
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Miami, FL
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Miami | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Snowstorms, Cold Waves |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you can see, moving from Miami to Chicago will bring significant weather changes. Miami's warm, humid climate with plenty of sunshine contrasts sharply with Chicago's colder, more variable conditions, where winters can be harsh, and snow is common. Preparing for Chicago's winter requires a wardrobe update, with heavy coats and boots becoming essentials. Additionally, the different types of natural disasters and seasonal allergies in Chicago may necessitate adjustments in your emergency preparedness and healthcare considerations.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Miami to Chicago
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how your finances might be affected. This comparison focuses on the financial implications of relocating from Miami, FL to Chicago, IL, covering key economic aspects to help you understand what to expect.
| Comparison | Miami | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $48,789 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 106 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.97 | 2.31 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Finance, International Trade | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Varied | Varied |
| Poverty | Significant | Significant |
| Homelessness | High | High |
The cost of living in Chicago is notably lower than in Miami, primarily due to Miami's higher housing and living expenses. However, relocating to Chicago brings new financial considerations, such as the state income tax, which Florida does not have. Despite these differences, both cities exhibit significant affluence alongside noticeable poverty and homelessness rates. Factor in Chicago's higher property and sales taxes, but also consider the diverse job opportunities in sectors like finance and manufacturing that may balance these costs. Your financial planning should recognize these contrasts to make the most informed decision.
Miami vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
Relocating? This comparison of the politics between Miami & Chicago offers a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of each city. It helps you understand the community you’re moving into or out of at a glance.
| Miami | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic, with a strong Republican presence | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Significant focus on issues related to immigration and climate | Emphasizes social justice, policing, and education reforms |
| Religion | High Catholic population with a mix of other Christian denominations and religions | Diverse religious landscape including Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, and others |
Moving from Miami to Chicago, you will experience a shift not only in climate but also in the political and religious landscapes. Miami's political scene is notably balanced, with discussions often centered around immigration and climate issues pertinent to its geolocation. On the other hand, Chicago's political climate is predominantly Democratic, where social justice, policing reforms, and education are at the forefront of local politics. Religiously, both cities boast a diverse mix, but you'll find a wider variety of religious institutions in Chicago, from Saint Clement Church to the Chicago Islamic Center, reflecting its rich cultural diversity. Embracing these differences can enrich your relocation experience significantly.
Miami vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Miami & Chicago is designed to help you grasp what daily commutes and navigating the cities could be like after your move. Whether driving or utilizing public transit, understanding these dynamics is crucial for a smooth transition.
| Comparison | Miami | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
In Miami, while you might find the average commute time slightly more bearable, the city’s reliance on cars due to less robust public transit options makes living without one quite challenging. Conversely, Chicago’s well-developed public transportation network, including the extensive Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) services, makes it considerably easier to navigate the city without a car. Though both cities experience significant traffic congestion, with Chicago marginally higher, the difference in public transit availability marks a notable contrast in the ease of daily commutes.
Additional Resources
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