Best Chicago to Baltimore Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Baltimore and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 704 mile move from Illinois to Maryland go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 67 Chicago to Baltimore 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 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 Chicago compared to Baltimore. 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 Baltimore Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Treasure Moving Company | 9.39 | 9.41 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.33 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Baltimore
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 704 miles from Chicago, IL to Baltimore, MD will cost on average $2,380 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Baltimore move is roughly $5,708. 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 | $1,602 | 300 ft³ | 5.34 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,380 | 450 ft³ | 5.29 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,929 | 750 ft³ | 5.24 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,708 | 1100 ft³ | 5.19 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,222 | 1600 ft³ | 5.14 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,160 | 1800 ft³ | 5.09 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Baltimore to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Baltimore 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) |
Treasure Moving Company
11140 Rockville Pike # 300
Rockville, MD, 20852
About Treasure Moving Company
Carrying all of your worldly possessions to a new location is no small feat. Throw in the fact that you’re probably...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Residential Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2431129 / 847222 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 45,000 (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) |
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) |
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. Baltimore Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting. To ease the transition, we compare Chicago, IL & Baltimore, MD local neighborhoods so you can find a place that feels like home. Whether you're looking for vibrant nightlife, family-friendly environments, or cultural hotspots, understanding the similarities between neighborhoods in your current and future cities can help you make an informed decision.
| Chicago | Baltimore | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Fells Point | Historic charm, lively nightlife |
| Wicker Park | Hampden | Artsy, vibrant community |
| The Loop | Inner Harbor | Central business district, tourist attractions |
| Hyde Park | Mount Vernon | Cultural institutions, historic architecture |
| Gold Coast | Federal Hill | Upscale, trendy living |
| Old Town | Canton | Waterfront views, vibrant social scene |
| Andersonville | Charles Village | Diverse, strong sense of community |
| Logan Square | Bolton Hill | Historic homes, artsy vibe |
| River North | Harbor East | Chic, upscale shopping and dining |
| South Loop | Mount Washington | Family-friendly, spacious homes |
As you navigate your move from Chicago to Baltimore, diving deeper into the neighborhood comparisons can ease your decision-making process. For those charmed by Lincoln Park's harmonious blend of historic and modern, Fells Point in Baltimore offers a similar experience with its cobblestone streets and waterfront pubs, like the notable The Point. If you're drawn to the artsy and vibrant atmosphere of Wicker Park, you'll find a kindred spirit in Hampden, celebrated for its unique boutiques and the annual HonFest. Hyde Park residents who appreciate cultural richness and historical significance will feel at home in Mount Vernon, where landmarks like the Walters Art Museum stand. Meanwhile, those seeking upscale, trendy living in the Gold Coast may find Federal Hill's stunning views and lively markets like Cross Street Market a perfect match. Exploring these neighborhoods further can unveil a host of dining, leisure, and cultural opportunities, making your transition as seamless as possible.
Things to Do in Baltimore
Explore the National Aquarium- Stroll through Fell's Point Waterfront
- Visit Port Discovery Children's Museum
- Watch an Orioles game at Camden Yards
- Enjoy art at the Baltimore Museum of Art
- Taste crab cakes at Phillips Seafood
- Attend a show at Hippodrome Theatre
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Baltimore
Moving from one city to another offers a fresh start but also comes with its share of challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Baltimore, MD , helping you weigh your options carefully.
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- Higher living costs
- Heavy traffic
- Less seafood variety
Baltimore, MD- Milder winters
- Lower living costs
- Less congestion
- Fresh seafood options
Baltimore, MD- Smaller food scene
- Smaller parks
- Fewer cultural institutions
- Limited public transit
Chicago, IL- Diverse food scene
- Larger city parks
- Rich cultural offerings
- Extensive public transit
While Chicago is famed for its impressive skyline, rich cultural history, and vast parks like Millennium Park, moving to Baltimore presents new opportunities, particularly for those who appreciate the charm of smaller, historic neighborhoods and the allure of the Chesapeake Bay’s famous seafood. Baltimore's Inner Harbor area is a highlight, featuring attractions such as the National Aquarium and historic ships, contrasting with Chicago's vast Lake Michigan shorelines and iconic Navy Pier. Furthermore, the cost of living in Baltimore is generally more affordable than in Chicago, allowing for potentially easier financial management. However, one might miss Chicago's extensive public transit system and its diverse culinary scene, which spans from deep-dish pizza to an array of international cuisines found in neighborhoods such as Little Italy and Chinatown.
Chicago vs. Baltimore Food Guide
Food is an essential aspect of local culture, significantly influencing what it's like to live in an area. To help you navigate the culinary waters of your new home, we're presenting a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Baltimore . This will give you a better sense of what to expect from the food scene in these vibrant cities.
| Chicago | Baltimore | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | Crab Cakes |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef Sandwich | Pit Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style Hot Dog | Chicken Box |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Vegan Crab Cake |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Chicago and Baltimore both boast rich culinary scenes that mirror their unique cultures and histories. In Chicago, neighborhoods like the West Loop or Wicker Park are great places to experience a dizzying array of foods, from the famed deep dish pizza at places like Lou Malnati's to innovative meat dishes at spots like Smoque BBQ. Baltimore, on the other hand, shines with its seafood. Neighborhoods like Fells Point or the Inner Harbor are staples for anyone looking to dive into some of the city's best crab cakes, notably at Faidley's Seafood. Additionally, both cities cater well to the health-conscious and vegan diners, with Chicago's seitan wings and Baltimore's vegan crab cakes signaling a move towards more inclusive dining experiences.
Chicago vs. Baltimore Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering where to eat. This comparison of top restaurants from Chicago to Baltimore is designed to make the transition smoother by guiding you towards your next favorite dining spots, using your tastes in Chicago as the anchor.
| Chicago | Baltimore | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Charleston | Fine dining, sophisticated atmosphere |
| Girl & The Goat | Woodberry Kitchen | Farm-to-table focus, innovative dishes |
| Portillo's | Chaps Pit Beef | Iconic local flavors, casual dining |
| Giordano's | Matthew's Pizza | Known for deep-dish, comfort vibe |
| The Purple Pig | Tapas Teatro | Small plates, Mediterranean flavors |
| Pequod's Pizza | Hersh's | Artisanal pizzas, lively atmosphere |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Thames Street Oyster House | Fresh seafood, upscale |
| Au Cheval | Abbey Burger Bistro | Gourmet burgers, cozy setting |
| Gene & Jude's | Stuggy's | Classic hot dogs, hometown vibe |
| Frontera Grill | Clavel | Family-run, authentic Mexican cuisine |
When setting out to explore the culinary landscape of Baltimore, drawing parallels with Chicago's dining scene will reveal a rich tapestry of flavors and experiences. For example, if the innovative, farm-to-table approach of Girl & The Goat has always appealed to you, Woodberry Kitchen in Baltimore should be your next reservation. Here, the emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients and a seasonally changing menu replicates that connection to the land and community. Similarly, the transition from the iconic deep-dish pizzas of Giordano's can find continuity at Matthew's Pizza, where the comfort of a hearty, cheese-filled pie awaits. These comparisons are not just about matching one restaurant to another; they're about capturing the essence of what makes dining out so memorable—whether it's the sophistication of the cuisine, the warmth of the service, or the uniqueness of the atmosphere. So, as you settle into Baltimore, let these culinary bridges take you from familiar to new, one dish at a time.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Baltimore Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal aspect when moving, and understanding how housing aspects compare between Chicago, IL and Baltimore, MD can make or break the decision. Here's a glance at their real estate landscapes to ease your transition.
| Comparison | Chicago | Baltimore |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Chicago School | Row Houses and Federal Style |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, proximity to public transport | Historic features, proximity to waterfront |
When considering housing between Chicago and Baltimore, the choices cater to diverse preferences, whether you're drawn to Chicago's bustling urban atmosphere with its modern architecture and lake views or Baltimore's historic charm and waterfront proximity. Chicago's slightly higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores reflect its dense, city-centric living, whereas Baltimore offers a cozier urban feel with an emphasis on historic and cultural attributes. The significant difference in housing costs, with Baltimore being more affordable, could be a deciding factor, depending on your budget and lifestyle preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Baltimore, MD
1. Federal Hill: This neighborhood offers numerous dog-friendly parks and walkways with stunning views of the Inner Harbor, perfect for your daily walks with your furry friend.
2. Canton: Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Canton provides a variety of pet-friendly restaurants and cafes, along with the spacious Canton Dog Park for your pets to play and socialize.
3. Mount Vernon: This neighborhood is ideal for pet owners seeking a cultural vibe with its pet-friendly historic landmarks and art spaces, alongside multiple grooming spas and pet shops to pamper your companion.
Chicago vs. Baltimore Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another involves adapting to new environments, especially the weather. Understanding how the climate in Chicago compares to Baltimore can help you prepare for changes in your lifestyle. This comparison will guide you through weather variations to ease your transition.
Chicago, IL
Baltimore, MD
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Baltimore, MD
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Baltimore, MD
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Baltimore, MD
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Baltimore |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Hurricanes, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both cities experience the four seasons, moving from Chicago to Baltimore, you'll notice milder winters, slightly warmer and more humid summers, and more sunshine throughout the year. Moreover, the shift in natural disaster risks from blizzards and tornadoes in Chicago to hurricanes and flooding in Baltimore emphasizes the need for different preparedness plans. The increased annual rainfall in Baltimore compared to Chicago could affect activities and events, making it beneficial to invest in quality rain gear.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Baltimore
When you're planning to move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial aspects compare between Chicago and Baltimore. This will ensure you can budget effectively and understand the economic landscape of your new home.
| Comparison | Chicago | Baltimore |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $54,652 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 119.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 5.75 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.10 | 1.78 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 6 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Healthcare, Biosciences, Education |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Variable |
| Poverty | Notable | Significant |
| Homelessness | Conspicuous | Evident |
Moving from Chicago to Baltimore, you'll find a notable difference in financial landscapes. Despite a lower average household income in Baltimore, its cost of living index is substantially less than Chicago's, making everyday expenses more manageable. However, it's important to note the higher state income tax in Baltimore. The different dominant industries in both cities also hint at varying job opportunities, potentially affecting your employment prospects. Understanding these financial and economic factors is crucial for a smooth transition and ensuring your finances remain on solid ground in your new city.
Chicago vs. Baltimore Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another brings a mix of expectations and surprises, especially when it comes to understanding the social fabric of your new home. This comparison aims to provide you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Chicago & Baltimore , giving you insight into what to expect when you transition from the bustling streets of Chicago, IL, to the historic neighborhoods of Baltimore, MD.
| Chicago | Baltimore | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on social issues and economic development | Similarly prioritizes social issues, with an added focus on urban renewal |
| Religion | Variety, with a significant Catholic presence. Community centers like The Archdiocese of Chicago play a key role. | Diverse, but with a notable Protestant majority. Institutions like The Episcopal Diocese of Maryland are influential. |
Although both cities lean strongly Democratic in their political makeup, your experience in local governance and its approach towards issues may vary. Chicago's social and economic development initiatives provide a broad framework within which the city operates, from boosting business districts to increasing affordable housing. In contrast, Baltimore places significant emphasis on urban renewal and development, aiming to revitalize its storied neighborhoods while addressing the social concerns of its residents. The religious landscape of each city reflects their rich, diverse communities. However, while you might be accustomed to the large Catholic presence in Chicago, in Baltimore, you're likely to encounter a higher percentage of Protestant congregations, reflecting the city's historical roots and current religious demographics. This doesn't just influence the churches you may attend but also the community events and values that are prominent in each city.
Chicago vs. Baltimore Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chicago, IL to Baltimore, MD? This guide compares the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Baltimore to give you a better understanding of what daily commute and traffic will be like. It’s essential to know how these elements differ as they significantly impact your daily life.
| Comparison | Chicago | Baltimore |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 31 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | Yes, but it's more challenging |
In Chicago, thanks to its extensive public transit system, including buses, the "L" (elevated train), and Metra trains, residents have numerous options for getting around without a car. The city's layout and infrastructure make it reasonably navigable for pedestrians and cyclists as well. On the other hand, Baltimore, while still offering public transit options such as the Light Rail and bus system, might require a bit more reliance on a car, especially for those living outside of the more densely populated areas. This is important to consider if you prefer or are used to a car-free lifestyle. Both cities experience their fair share of traffic congestion, but Chicago's higher traffic congestion score indicates that you might find Baltimore's roads slightly less stressful during rush hours.
Additional Resources
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