Best Chicago to Kansas City Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Kansas City and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 513 mile move from Illinois to Kansas go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 52 Chicago to Kansas City 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 606 Movers, Inc.), 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 Chicago compared to Kansas City. 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 Kansas City 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 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.32 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | God's Movers, LLC | 9.05 | 9.29 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Golden Rule Relocation | 8.97 | 8.75 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Kansas City
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 513 miles from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, KS will cost on average $2,217 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Kansas City move is roughly $5,310. 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 | $1,493 | 300 ft³ | 4.98 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,217 | 450 ft³ | 4.93 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,658 | 750 ft³ | 4.88 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,310 | 1100 ft³ | 4.83 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,644 | 1600 ft³ | 4.78 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,510 | 1800 ft³ | 4.73 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Kansas City to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Kansas City 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) |
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) |
God's Movers, LLC
11815 E 60 St
Kansas City, MO, 64133
About God's Movers, LLC
God’s Movers is a family-owned and operated moving company that has served Greater Kansas City, MO for more than 20 years....
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2417601 / 946280 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |
Golden Rule Relocation
1600 Swift St # 200
North Kansas City, MO, 64116
About Golden Rule Relocation
Golden Rule Relocation is a premier residential and commercial moving and storage company based in Kansas City, Missouri, and serves the...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Interstate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3420954 / 1105839 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2022) |
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. Kansas City Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially when landing in an unfamiliar city. To ease your transition, we'll compare popular neighborhoods in Chicago, IL & Kansas City, KS , effectively mapping your known environment to your new one. This guide aims to help you find a slice of home in a new city by pairing you with the Kansas City neighborhood that best matches your Chicago favorite.
| Chicago | Kansas City | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Brookside | Family-friendly with a similar vibe |
| Wicker Park | Westport | Eclectic and vibrant nightlife |
| The Loop | Downtown KC | Urban living and cultural hub |
| Gold Coast | Country Club Plaza | Upscale, historic charm |
| Hyde Park | Volker | Diverse with an intellectual allure |
| Old Town | Crossroads Art District | Bohemian with rich culture |
| Logan Square | River Market | Trendy, with a strong community feel |
| Andersonville | West 39th | Quirky, with a small-town feel |
| South Loop | Union Hill | Ideal blend of residential and commercial |
| River North | Power & Light District | Entertainment and nightlife |
Discovering your perfect Kansas City neighborhood means considering parks, restaurants, and local sights that mirror those you loved in Chicago. For instance, Lincoln Park's green spaces and family-friendly atmosphere are closely echoed in Brookside, where quaint shops and community events fill your weekends. If the active nightlife and eclectic culture of Wicker Park captivated you, you'll find Westport's lively bars and unique shops a comparable delight. Meanwhile, art lovers drawn to the urban creativity and community of Old Town will feel right at home in the Crossroads Art District, where galleries, boutiques, and mural-adorned buildings abound. Each Kansas City neighborhood boasts its own charm, offering a new community to explore while reminding you of the Chicago locales you've grown to love.
Things to Do in Kansas City
Explore the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art- Visit Union Station
- Have fun at Worlds of Fun
- Tour Boulevard Brewing Company
- Stroll through the City Market
- Enjoy BBQ at a local joint
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Kansas City
Moving homes is a journey of weighing options, and when considering relocating from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, KS, it's vital to look at both sides of the coin. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad, helping you make a well-informed decision about your next big move.
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- Cold winters
- Traffic congestion
- Higher crime rates
Kansas City, KS- Lower cost of living
- Milder winters
- Less traffic
- Lower crime rates
Kansas City, KS- Smaller cultural scene
- Lesser food variety
- Fewer parks
- Dependent on cars
Chicago, IL- Vibrant cultural scene
- Diverse food options
- Abundant green spaces
- Better public transportation
While Kansas City, KS, offers a respite with its lower cost of living and reduced traffic, it's important to keep in mind what you might be leaving behind in Chicago, including a vibrant arts scene and diverse dining options. Chicago's bustling neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, with its famous zoo, and Wicker Park's trendy restaurants, such as Big Star, provide unique experiences that are hard to find elsewhere. Conversely, Kansas City welcomes you with open arms to a burgeoning scene, led by areas like the Crossroads Arts District, where innovative spaces like CrossroadsKC promise a thriving future for music and art lovers. It's a trade-off between the exciting pace of Chicago life and the laid-back, friendly environment of Kansas City, each with its own charms and challenges.
Chicago vs. Kansas City Food Guide
Food is a cornerstone of local culture and an essential aspect of what living in an area feels like. In our guide, we compare the local cuisine between Chicago & Kansas City to help you get a taste of the culinary scene you'll be stepping into. This comparison aims to give you a better idea of the food culture in your new home.
| Chicago | Kansas City | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep-Dish Pizza | BBQ Ribs |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dog | Burnt Ends |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Deep-Dish Pizza | Jackfruit BBQ |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you move to Kansas City, you'll quickly discover that BBQ is not just food; it's an art form. Neighborhoods such as Westport and the Crossroads Arts District host a variety of iconic eateries where you can dive into the heart of Kansas City's BBQ scene. Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, known for its legendary burnt ends, embodies the deep-rooted BBQ tradition of the area. Venturing into the vegan scene, places like Café Gratitude in the Crossroads offer a refreshing twist with dishes like Jackfruit BBQ, showcasing how even traditional BBQ cities cater to diverse culinary preferences. Exploring the culinary landscape of your new city can be as exciting as discovering its landmarks and culture.
Chicago vs. Kansas City Restaurant Comparison
Finding your next favorite restaurant can make the transition to a new city feel like coming home. This restaurant comparison will help you navigate from the culinary landscape of Chicago, IL, to finding equivalent tastes in Kansas City, KS. From Chicago to Kansas City, discover your new go-to eateries by leveraging your current favorites as a guide.
| Chicago | Kansas City | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Bluestem | High-end dining with inventive dishes. |
| Portillo's | Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que | Iconic fast casual with a local twist. |
| Girl & The Goat | Rye | Farm-to-table dining emphasizing Midwestern flavors. |
| Giordano's | Minsky’s Pizza | Famous for their deep-dish pizzas. |
| Publican | Corvino Supper Club & Tasting Room | Known for their unique communal dining experience. |
| Rick Bayless's Frontera Grill | Port Fonda | Authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. |
| Au Cheval | Town Topic | A local favorite for burgers and shakes. |
| Smoque BBQ | Q39 | Award-winning BBQ known for its smoked meats and inventive sides. |
| Pequod's Pizza | Waldo Pizza | A beloved spot for pizzas with unique toppings. |
| The Purple Pig | CrossroadsKC | An eclectic menu with a focus on shared plates. |
In the midst of a move, the aroma of familiar comfort food can instantly transport you back to cherished memories. If the deep, complex flavors of Alinea captured your heart in Chicago, Bluestem in Kansas City awaits with its own menu of innovative dishes, where the culinary craft is equally revered. Transitioning from the iconic Chicago-style deep dish at Giordano’s? Minsky’s Pizza in Kansas City offers a local take that does not disappoint, celebrating the same love for hearty, cheesy goodness. Furthermore, those who relished the casual yet iconic atmosphere of Portillo's will find Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que a worthy counterpart, where the rich, smoky flavors of BBQ meet the lore of Kansas City’s culinary scene. This guide is designed to not just replace, but broaden your gastronomic horizons, making Kansas City feel like your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Kansas City Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, finding the right home matters. It’s crucial to compare Chicago, IL and Kansas City, KS real estate, focusing on cost, architecture, and lifestyle to make an informed decision. This assessment will guide you through key housing aspects in both cities.
| Comparison | Chicago | Kansas City |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Skyscrapers/Modern | Prairie Style/Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, L-train access | Spacious yards, Easy highway access |
In comparing the two cities, the lower median home price and monthly rent in Kansas City stand out, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordability. Chicago’s high walkability and bikeability scores reflect its dense, urban environment, offering easy access to amenities and public transport. Architecture also distinctly sets the cities apart: Chicago is renowned for its towering skyscrapers and modern designs, whereas Kansas City showcases Prairie Style and Colonial homes, echoing its historical roots. If an urban lifestyle is a priority, Chicago’s vibrant scene is unmatched, but for those who treasure spacious living and a slower pace, Kansas City is appealing.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Kansas City, KS
1. Rosedale: This neighborhood boasts the expansive Rosedale Park, which includes multiple trails and open spaces perfect for outdoor activities with your furry friend.
2. Strawberry Hill: Known for its tight-knit community and pet-friendly atmosphere, you can enjoy walks with spectacular views and visit the local Strawberry Hill Pup Crawl, a fun event for pets and pet owners.
3. Armourdale: With access to Wyandotte County Lake Park just a short drive away, Armourdale offers plenty of green space for pets to play and explore, making it a haven for pet lovers.
Chicago vs. Kansas City Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another introduces a variety of changes, among which the weather can be significantly different. Hence, understanding how the weather in Chicago compares to Kansas City is crucial for newcomers. This comparison will aid in preparing for seasonal adjustments and planning for outdoor activities.
Chicago, IL
Kansas City, KS
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Kansas City, KS
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Kansas City, KS
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Kansas City, KS
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Kansas City |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Cold Waves | Tornadoes, Severe Thunderstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When considering a move from Chicago to Kansas City, it's noteworthy that you'll experience slightly warmer summers and milder winters in Kansas City, though both have their fair share of humidity. The increased number of sunny days per year in Kansas City is a plus for those who enjoy more outdoor activities. However, it's important to prepare for the greater risk of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms compared to Chicago's snowstorms and cold waves. Understanding these differences will help you adjust better to your new environment and enjoy all that Kansas City has to offer.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Kansas City
When planning a move from one city to another, grasping the financial differences can significantly impact your decision-making process. Understanding how the cost of living, average income, and taxes in Chicago, IL compare with Kansas City, KS is crucial for budgeting and lifestyle adjustments. This comparison attempts to highlight what you can expect in terms of money and finance when relocating to a new city.
| Comparison | Chicago | Kansas City |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $53,884 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 97.8 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 3.1 to 5.7 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.16 | 1.37 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 9.18 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Biotechnology |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Moderate |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Moderately noticeable |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Moving from Chicago to Kansas City will reveal significant financial contrasts. For starters, the average household income in Chicago is higher, but so is the cost of living, particularly when it comes to taxes and property rates. Kansas City offers a more affordable living index which could mean more disposable income even with a potentially lower salary. The top industries also differ considerably, which might influence job opportunities based on your career path. While both cities face challenges with poverty and homelessness, the visible impact and scale may feel different as you transition from Chicago's bustling urban environment to Kansas City's diverse economic landscape.
Chicago vs. Kansas City Political & Religious Comparison
In this section of your moving guide, we provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents from where you're moving from to where you're heading. This is a comparison of the politics and religion between Chicago & Kansas City , aiming to offer insights into the typical makeup of the population in both cities.
| Chicago | Kansas City | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Mixed, with a lean towards Democratic in urban areas |
| Local Politics | Highly active, with emphasis on social issues | Active, with a focus on community and economic development |
| Religion | Diverse, with significant Catholic and Protestant populations | Religious diversity, with a strong presence of Protestantism |
While Chicago tends to be perceived as a stronghold for liberal and Democratic values, Kansas City presents a more mixed picture, reflecting the broader diversity of political opinions found across Kansas and Missouri. The emphasis on social issues in Chicago contrasts with Kansas City's focus on community and economic development initiatives. Religiously, both cities offer diversity, but the religious landscape in Kansas City is notably influenced by its strong Protestant presence. Understanding these distinctions can help you anticipate and embrace the nuanced social and cultural dynamics of your new community.
Chicago vs. Kansas City Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, KS brings with it many changes, especially in how you'll navigate day-to-day. This guide aims to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, comparing the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Kansas City.
| Comparison | Chicago | Kansas City |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some planning | Challenging |
When you move from Chicago to Kansas City, you’ll notice a significant difference in your daily commute. Chicago, known for its extensive public transportation system, offers various options making it feasible to get around without a car, albeit with a bit of planning due to your specific destination. On the other hand, Kansas City, while it has made strides in improving public transit, generally requires a car to navigate effectively. The average commute time in Kansas City is notably shorter, reflecting less traffic congestion compared to Chicago. These differences highlight the importance of considering your transportation needs and preferences as you prepare for your move.
Additional Resources
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