Best Chicago to Scottsdale Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Scottsdale and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,731 mile move from Illinois to Arizona go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 56 Chicago to Scottsdale 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 Sterling Interstate LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago compared to Scottsdale. 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 Chicago to Scottsdale Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sterling Interstate LLC | 9.75 | 9.64 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.32 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | New Beginnings Moving Solutions | 9.31 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Scottsdale
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,731 miles from Chicago, IL to Scottsdale, AZ will cost on average $3,253 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Scottsdale move is roughly $7,842. 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 | $2,184 | 300 ft³ | 7.28 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,253 | 450 ft³ | 7.23 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,385 | 750 ft³ | 7.18 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,842 | 1100 ft³ | 7.13 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,327 | 1600 ft³ | 7.08 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $12,653 | 1800 ft³ | 7.03 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Scottsdale to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Scottsdale Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Sterling Interstate LLC
This listing has been claimed by Sterling Interstate LLCPhoenix, AZ, 85022
About Sterling Interstate LLC
Established in 2017, Sterling Interstate opened with the intention to change the stigma around the moving industry by providing reliable, customizable...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3006713 / 26956 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 115,000 (2022) |
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) |
A1 Movers, Inc
315 S Harrison St
Geneva, IL, 60134
About A1 Movers, Inc
A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company...
Services
- LOCAL MOVES
- LONG DISTANCE MOVES
- PACKING SERVICES
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3309154 / 1055273 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,800 (2024) |
New Beginnings Moving Solutions
6757 W Charter Oak Rd
Peoria, AZ, 85381
About New Beginnings Moving Solutions
New Beginnings Moving Solutions is a full-service moving company specializing in long-distance moves. It is locally-owned and operated and has been...
Services
- Long Distance Moves
- Local Moves
- Business Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3656946 / 1262843 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 500 (2021) |
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.
Chicago vs. Scottsdale Neighborhood Comparison
When planning a move, getting to know your new city is key. This guide offers a unique perspective by comparing local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Scottsdale, AZ . If you're relocating from Chicago to Scottsdale, this side-by-side look at popular neighborhoods will help familiarize you with your new surroundings, using the familiar territory of your old city as a baseline.
| Chicago | Scottsdale | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | McCormick Ranch | Green spaces, family-friendly |
| Wicker Park | Old Town Scottsdale | Vibrant nightlife, artsy |
| Loop | Downtown Scottsdale | Urban living, cultural hub |
| Gold Coast | Paradise Valley | Luxury homes, upscale shopping |
| Lakeview | South Scottsdale | Lively, diverse community |
| River North | Gainey Ranch | Chic, sophisticated living |
| Andersonville | North Scottsdale | Quaint, community feel |
| Logan Square | DC Ranch | Family-oriented, outdoor activities |
| Hyde Park | McCormick Ranch | Cultural diversity, educational institutions |
| West Loop | Grayhawk | Trendy, foodie paradise |
In the vibrant streets of Wicker Park, Chicago, you're immersed in an eclectic mix of art galleries, boutiques, and buzzing nightlife spots. Transitioning to Scottsdale, you'll find a similar vibe in Old Town Scottsdale, where the Scottsdale Arts District and a plethora of dining options await. For those who appreciate the upscale and sophisticated atmosphere of Chicago's Gold Coast, with its luxury retailers and historic mansions, Paradise Valley in Scottsdale offers an equivalent flair with its lavish homes and scenic resorts. Lastly, for the outdoor enthusiasts who spent their weekends exploring the Lincoln Park Zoo or strolling through the park itself, McCormick Ranch provides ample green spaces, bike paths, and lakefront activities to ensure a seamless transition into your new Arizona lifestyle.
Things to Do in Scottsdale
Explore Old Town Scottsdale shops and galleries- Hike McDowell Sonoran Preserve trails
- Relax at Talking Stick Resort pool
- Play golf at Troon North Golf Club
- Visit the Butterfly Wonderland
- Discover art at Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
- Watch a game at Salt River Fields
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Scottsdale
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, yet exhilarating, with each location offering its unique blend of lifestyle qualities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Scottsdale, AZ . By juxtaposing the cons and pros of living in Chicago with the advantages Scottsdale holds, you'll gain a balanced viewpoint to aid your decision-making process.
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- High crime rates
- High taxes
- Dense population
Scottsdale, AZ- Warm weather
- Lower crime rates
- Lower taxes
- Spacious living
Scottsdale, AZ- Less cultural diversity
- Quieter nightlife
- Car-dependent
- Fewer landmarks
Chicago, IL- Rich culture
- Vibrant nightlife
- Extensive public transit
- Architectural landmarks
While both Chicago and Scottsdale offer compelling reasons to call them home, the transition between these two cities reveals significant contrasts. Chicago's winters can be fiercely cold, with snow and wind chilling to the bone, whereas Scottsdale's climate is predominantly warm, encouraging outdoor activities year-round. Scottsdale is renowned for its luxury resorts, such as the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, which provides world-class amenities and breathtaking desert landscapes. In contrast, Chicago's cultural richness and architectural marvels, including the iconic Art Institute of Chicago and Willis Tower, underscore a city brimming with history and architectural wonders. The transition from Chicago's dense and bustling urban environment to Scottsdale's more expansive and tranquil setting might require adjustments, particularly for those who cherish Chicago's extensive public transportation system and vibrant nightlife. Yet, the prospects of lower taxes, reduced crime rates, and spacious living conditions in Scottsdale present appealing reasons to embrace this change.
Chicago vs. Scottsdale Food Guide
Food plays a crucial role in experiencing local culture and understanding what life in a new city might be like. With our guide, we're setting the table for your move by highlighting the comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Scottsdale, offering insights into each location's unique food scene.
| Chicago | Scottsdale | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | Southwestern Cuisine |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style Hot Dog | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan-based dishes | Vegetable Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While the heartiness of Chicago's deep-dish pizza and the mouthwatering Italian beef offer a taste of the city's rich culinary tradition, moving to Scottsdale introduces an array of Southwestern flavors, highlighted by the spice and zest of carne asada and tacos. Notably, Scottsdale's dining scene boasts a higher fitness and health consciousness, reflected in its variety of fresh, locally-sourced vegan options. For an unforgettable dining experience, you might start in the neighborhood of Old Town Scottsdale, where restaurants like FnB and Virtù Honest Craft showcase the city's innovative and vibrant food scene. This shift in culinary perspective doesn't just represent a change in geography but an entirely new palette of flavors and experiences waiting to be discovered.
Chicago vs. Scottsdale Restaurant Comparison
Making a new city feel like home often starts with finding your go-to spots for a memorable meal. This comparison of top Chicago restaurants to their Scottsdale counterparts aims to simplify your transition from Chicago, IL to Scottsdale, AZ, ensuring you can still enjoy your favorite types of cuisine. Let's dive into the dining scene to find your new favorite eateries.
| Chicago | Scottsdale | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | FnB | Unique dining experience with a focus on local ingredients |
| Girl & The Goat | Virtù Honest Craft | Eclectic and globally inspired menu |
| Portillo's Hot Dogs | Short Leash Hotdogs & Rollover Doughnuts | Creative hot dogs and comfort food |
| Pequod's Pizza | Grimaldi's Pizzeria | Known for its coal-fired, brick-oven pizzas |
| The Purple Pig | FnB | Innovative small plates with a focus on wine pairings |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Mastro's City Hall Steakhouse | Upscale dining with a focus on steaks and seafood |
| Big Star | Diego Pops | Trendy spot with modern Mexican cuisine |
| Rick Bayless's Frontera Grill | The Mission | Modern Latin cuisine with a sophisticated twist |
| Gene & Georgetti | Dominick's Steakhouse | Classic steakhouse experience |
| Au Cheval | Zinburger | Gourmet burgers and shakes in a chic setting |
Transitioning from the Windy City's diverse food landscape to Scottsdale's vibrant culinary scene has its own rewards. For instance, while Alinea in Chicago offers an unparalleled gastronomic experience, FnB in Scottsdale presents a unique dining adventure with its emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients and Arizona wines, echoing the innovative spirit of Alinea's kitchen. Similarly, fans of Chicago's iconic Portillo's will find a delightful twist on hot dogs at Short Leash Hotdogs in Scottsdale, where creativity and comfort food collide. And if you're missing the bustling atmosphere and robust flavors of Girl & The Goat, Virtù Honest Craft in Scottsdale will not disappoint with its globally inspired menu and warm ambiance, helping you discover new favorites while reminiscing about Chicago's culinary gems.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Scottsdale Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing real estate in Chicago, IL , and Scottsdale, AZ is crucial for making an informed decision. This comparison covers various aspects of housing such as costs, architecture, and lifestyle to help you understand what each city offers.
| Comparison | Chicago | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Historical Mix | Pueblo/Spanish |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, Proximity to transit | Mountain views, Outdoor living space |
In comparing the real estate landscapes of Chicago and Scottsdale, one finds stark contrasts in costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle preferences. The higher median home price in Scottsdale reflects its luxury housing market, often boasting of homes with spacious outdoor living spaces and mountain views—a stark contrast to Chicago's more urban-centric allure, where lake views and proximity to public transit dominate listings. Chicago’s higher walkability score showcases its dense, vibrant urban environment, whereas Scottsdale's scores lean towards a more car-dependent lifestyle, albeit with more access to natural vistas. This divergence in urban lifestyle scores further emphasizes the difference between Chicago's bustling city life and Scottsdale's more laid-back, sprawling desert ambiance.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Scottsdale, AZ
1. McCormick Ranch: This neighborhood boasts miles of greenbelt perfect for walking your dog, along with several dog parks and pet-friendly cafes.
2. Old Town Scottsdale: With its pet-friendly shops and numerous outdoor dining options that welcome pets, Old Town is a paradise for pet owners.
3. DC Ranch: Offering an array of community parks and trails, along with pet-friendly events and amenities, DC Ranch ensures your pet is as much a part of the community as you are.
Chicago vs. Scottsdale Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another vastly different in climate means adjusting to a new weather pattern. Understanding how the weather in Chicago compares to Scottsdale's climate is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will outline key weather differences to help you prepare for your move.
Chicago, IL
Scottsdale, AZ
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Scottsdale, AZ
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Scottsdale, AZ
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Scottsdale, AZ
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Floods | Heatwaves, Dust Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When comparing weather patterns between Chicago and Scottsdale, the stark contrast in temperature and sunshine is evident. Scottsdale boasts nearly 300 days of sunshine annually, providing a much warmer and drier climate than Chicago's variable weather that includes cold winters with significant snowfall. Adjusting to Scottsdale's intense summer heat and high UV index will require some preparation, such as investing in sun protection and hydration solutions. Meanwhile, those moving from Chicago will welcome the relief from snowy winters and may find the dry climate beneficial for conditions aggravated by humidity.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Scottsdale
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how your financial landscape might change is crucial. This comparison will help you gauge if moving from Chicago, IL to Scottsdale, AZ aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle expectations. It's especially important to consider variations in cost of living, taxes, and average income.
| Comparison | Chicago | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $99,097 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 101.2 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 2.59 to 4.50 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.10 | 0.62 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 8.05 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Retail, Health Services | Technology, Healthcare, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Lesser |
When moving from Chicago to Scottsdale, you'll notice significant financial changes. Scottsdale boasts a higher average household income and lower state income tax rates, making it appealing for financial growth. Though Scottsdale's cost of living is notably higher, this is balanced by the city's affluent economic climate and lower property taxes, which is a boon for homeowners. The contrast in sales tax further highlights the financial adjustments you'd need to make. Understanding these differences is key to a successful transition, especially in adjusting your budget and lifestyle to Scottsdale's economic environment.
Chicago vs. Scottsdale Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Chicago, IL to Scottsdale, AZ? This quick glance comparison aims to give you an idea of the political and religious landscape between Chicago & Scottsdale . Find out how the cities differ in terms of political makeup, local politics, and religious communities.
| Chicago | Scottsdale | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Largely Democratic | Moderate, with a slight Republican lean |
| Local Politics | Progressive with strong union presence | Business-oriented with a focus on development |
| Religion | Diverse; includes Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, and more | Primarily Christian, with significant Catholic and Protestant communities |
In both Chicago and Scottsdale, the diversity of each city is reflected in its religious and political communities. Chicago's political scene is known for its progressive stance and influential unions, which contrasts with Scottsdale's more moderate politics and business-friendly environment. Religious life in Chicago is remarkably diverse, offering a broad array of faith communities compared to Scottsdale, where Christian denominations, particularly Catholic and Protestant, predominate. These differences might inform your experience living in either city, affecting everything from local governance to community engagement.
Chicago vs. Scottsdale Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Scottsdale to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like as you consider moving. Whether you're planning your daily route to work or exploring the city, knowing these differences can be a game changer.
| Comparison | Chicago | Scottsdale |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
When moving from Chicago to Scottsdale, you'll notice significant changes in your commute and the role of transportation in your daily life. Chicago's robust public transit system, including buses and the "L" trains, enables most residents to navigate the city without a private vehicle, which is a stark contrast to Scottsdale. In Scottsdale, the sparser public transit options make owning a car almost essential for convenience and reaching work, shops, or leisure destinations efficiently. Additionally, while Chicago's traffic can be dense, leading to longer average commute times, Scottsdale offers a more relaxed commute experience, with significantly less congestion. Understanding these differences can help you prepare for a smoother transition and set realistic expectations for your new lifestyle.
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