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 511 mile move from Illinois to Missouri go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 55 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 511 miles from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO will cost on average $2,216 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Kansas City move is roughly $5,306. 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 | $1,492 | 300 ft³ | 4.97 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,216 | 450 ft³ | 4.92 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,655 | 750 ft³ | 4.87 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,306 | 1100 ft³ | 4.82 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,638 | 1600 ft³ | 4.77 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,503 | 1800 ft³ | 4.72 |
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
If you're planning a move from Chicago, IL, to Kansas City, MO, understanding the neighborhoods in your new city can be challenging. This guide aims to compare the local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Kansas City, MO by matching similar communities from each city. Whether you're looking for culture, community, or cuisine, this comparative analysis will help you find a slice of Chicago in Kansas City.
| Chicago | Kansas City | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Brookside | Family-friendly with a strong community vibe |
| Loop | Downtown | Vibrant business district and bustling nightlife |
| Wicker Park | Westport | Blend of trendy shops and eclectic food scene |
| Gold Coast | Country Club Plaza | Upscale living with high-end shopping |
| River North | Power & Light District | Hub for arts and entertainment |
| Hyde Park | Volker | Mix of historical charm and cultural institutions |
| Andersonville | Waldo | Cozy neighborhood with a strong sense of community |
| Logan Square | Midtown | Diverse community with historic homes and bustling corridors |
| Old Town | Crossroads Arts District | Creative community with galleries and theaters |
| South Loop | River Market | Urban area with a historic vibe and farmer's markets |
Discovering the right neighborhood in Kansas City that resonates with your Chicago roots can be both exciting and comforting. For example, if you're captivated by the cultural richness and architectural beauty of Hyde Park in Chicago, you'll be pleased to find a similar spirit in Kansas City's Volker, where historic homes line the streets, not far from cultural beacons like the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. For those who admire the artistic and lively atmosphere of Wicker Park, Westport's unique blend of trendy boutiques, diverse eateries like Port Fonda, and an active nightlife scene provide an appealingly similar vibe. Chicago's Lincoln Park lovers will find Brookside in Kansas City an inviting counterpart, with its welcoming neighborhood feel, green spaces like Loose Park, and family-oriented activities, marking it as a perfect place for those searching for a community-centric living experience with a touch of Chicago's charm.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Kansas City
Moving from one city to another comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards. In this case, relocating from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO presents a noteworthy shift in lifestyle, opportunities, and environment. Our comparative charts strive to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh your options carefully.
Chicago, IL- Colder winters
- Higher cost of living
- More traffic congestion
- Less BBQ culture
Kansas City, MO- Milder winters
- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Rich BBQ scene
Kansas City, MO- Quieter nightlife
- Smaller cultural scene
- Limited public transit
- Fewer landmarks
Chicago, IL- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse cultural scene
- Extensive public transit
- Iconic landmarks
While Chicago boasts an array of iconic landmarks like the Willis Tower and The Art Institute of Chicago, Kansas City counters with its own charming sights such as the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and Country Club Plaza. In Kansas City, you can enjoy the famed BBQ joints like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, reflecting a strong local culture around barbecue. The cost of living in Kansas City is notably lower, allowing for a potentially higher quality of life. However, you might miss Chicago's extensive public transit system and vibrant cultural scene, showcasing a wide array of concerts, festivals, and ethnic restaurants. Neighborhood parks in Kansas City, like Loose Park, provide ample green spaces for relaxation and recreation, albeit Chicago's Millennium Park and Grant Park offer some of the most iconic urban green spaces in the country.
Chicago vs. Kansas City Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Kansas City serves as a culinary map, highlighting how food plays a pivotal role in understanding the essence and culture of these vibrant cities. As you prepare to move, knowing what each location has to offer can help you anticipate and embrace the diverse food scenes awaiting you.
| Chicago | Kansas City | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | Barbecue Ribs |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Burnt Ends |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style Hot Dog | Barbecue Sandwich |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan | Jackfruit BBQ |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving to Kansas City, MO, from Chicago, IL, you’ll transition from the hearty depth of deep-dish pizzas and iconic Italian beef to the rich, smoky flavors of barbecue ribs and burnt ends that Kansas City is famous for. Neighborhoods like Westport and the Country Club Plaza area offer a gastronomic journey with locations such as Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que and Q39, where you can dive into the local barbecue scene. Meanwhile, for vegans and vegetarians, Kansas City’s growing scene includes options like jackfruit BBQ, showcasing the city’s versatility and willingness to adapt traditional flavors for all palettes.
Chicago vs. Kansas City Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in the familiar flavors of your hometown can be a cornerstone in making a new city feel like home. Our restaurant comparison from Chicago to Kansas City will guide you in discovering your next go-to dining spots, using your cherished Chicago favorites as a beacon.
| Chicago | Kansas City | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Bluestem | Pioneering in innovative, fine dining experiences |
| Portillo's | Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que | Iconic for fast-casual dining with a local twist |
| Girl & the Goat | Fox and Pearl | Offering a rustic, farm-to-table dining experience |
| Giordano's | Waldo Pizza | Loved for its deep-dish variants and cozy atmosphere |
| The Purple Pig | Tannin Wine Bar & Kitchen | Known for its eclectic small plates and extensive wine list |
| Au Cheval | Town Topic | Classic diner fare with a reputation for the best burgers in town |
| Frontera Grill | Port Fonda | Authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist |
| Pequod's Pizza | Grinders | Famous for its unique pizzas and vibrant artsy vibe |
| The Berghoff | Affäre | An innovative approach to traditional German cuisine |
| Roister | Rye | Showcases American fare with an emphasis on local ingredients and refined techniques |
Discovering the parallels between Chicago's iconic Alinea and Kansas City's Bluestem reveals a shared dedication to culinary excellence and innovation in fine dining. Both establishments boast unique, unforgettable dining experiences that engage all senses. The transition from Chicago's famed deep-dish pizzas at Giordano's to the comforting embrace of a similarly cherished deep-dish at Waldo Pizza in Kansas City underscores the comforting continuity of great pizza traditions from one city to the next. Meanwhile, for those seeking the flavors of meticulously crafted Mexican cuisine reminiscent of Frontera Grill, Kansas City's Port Fonda stands as a testament to the vibrant, aromatic dishes that define authentic Mexican fare, coupling modern culinary techniques with traditional flavors.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Kansas City Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly impacts your move, and understanding how Chicago, IL and Kansas City, MO compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can greatly influence your decision. This comparison aims to provide insightful data to assist your transition.
| Comparison | Chicago | Kansas City |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Historical Mixed | Arts and Crafts, Tudor |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, Proximity to public transit | Spacious yards, Garage space |
Comparing the real estate markets of Chicago and Kansas City, you'll find distinct differences that may appeal based on your preferences and lifestyle. Chicago, known for its vibrant urban life, offers architectural diversity blending modern elements with historical buildings, often emphasizing views of Lake Michigan and accessibility to public transport. In contrast, Kansas City's real estate highlights the Arts and Crafts and Tudor styles, with listings frequently boasting spacious yards and ample garage space, catering to those seeking a more suburban feel. Despite its lower walkability score compared to Chicago, Kansas City's growing bike paths and urban core develop into a more bike-friendly environment, showcasing the evolving urban lifestyle of the city.
Chicago vs. Kansas City Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This comparison will give you a clear picture of what to expect in your new city regarding temperature, sunshine, and more. Weather comparison between Chicago and Kansas City is vital for a smooth transition.
Chicago, IL
Kansas City, MO
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Kansas City, MO
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Kansas City, MO
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Kansas City, MO
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Kansas City |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Cold Waves | Tornadoes, Severe Thunderstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Chicago to Kansas City, you'll experience a slight increase in both summer temperatures and annual days of sunshine, which might be a pleasant change if you enjoy warmer weather and outdoor activities. However, it's essential to prepare for Kansas City's higher potential for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms compared to Chicago's blizzards and cold waves. Additionally, while both cities have their share of seasonal allergies, the predominant allergens differ slightly, which could impact those sensitive to specific triggers.
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, it's crucial to grasp how your finances will be impacted in your new home. This comparison aims to give you a clearer understanding of what to expect when transitioning from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO in terms of money and finance .
| Comparison | Chicago | Kansas City |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $63,396 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 97.8 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 0 - 5.9 (progressive) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.1 | 1.2 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 8.86 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Science & Technology |
| Affluence | Varied | Emerging |
| Poverty | Noticable | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Addressed |
While both cities offer unique economic landscapes, your transition from Chicago to Kansas City might feel financially relieving, thanks to the notably lower cost of living index and property taxes in Kansas City. Despite the slightly lower average household income in Kansas City, these cost reductions can contribute to a comparable, if not improved, standard of living. Moreover, while Kansas City's state income tax operates on a progressive scale that could end up being comparable to Illinois' flat rate, the lower sales tax and property tax rates in Kansas City potentially offer more financial breathing room for new residents. Consider how these financial factors align with your lifestyle and career, as both cities thrive with diverse and dynamic economic foundations.
Chicago vs. Kansas City Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another is more than just a change of scenery; it's an immersion into a new community. This comparison between Chicago, IL & Kansas City, MO will provide you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you understand the social landscape you're moving into.
| Chicago | Kansas City | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Moderately Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies; strong labor unions | Mix of progressive and moderate policies |
| Religion | Diverse; includes Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism | Primarily Christian, with significant Catholic and Protestant populations; growing diversity |
As you move from Chicago to Kansas City, you'll find both cities have Democratic leanings, though Kansas City presents a more moderate political atmosphere. Local politics in Chicago are characterized by progressive policies and influential labor unions. In contrast, Kansas City offers a blend where progressive ideals meet moderate stances, reflecting a somewhat diverse political landscape. When it comes to religion, both cities offer a tapestry of beliefs. In Chicago, the religious scene is incredibly diverse, catering to a wide array of faiths. Kansas City, while predominantly Christian, is experiencing growth in religious diversity, showing an increasing openness and inclusivity. This transition might seem substantial, but it represents a unique opportunity to experience the rich, diverse cultures that define each city.
Chicago vs. Kansas City Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chicago, IL to Kansas City, MO? Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Kansas City is crucial for adapting to your new daily commute and traffic realities.
| 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 ease | Possible, but challenging |
While both cities offer unique experiences, Chicago stands out for its highly efficient public transportation system, highlighted by the 'L' trains and extensive bus network, making it possible to live without a personal vehicle. In contrast, Kansas City's public transportation, mainly consisting of buses, is improving, but still not as comprehensive, making car ownership more of a necessity for comfortable daily life. Additionally, Chicago's average commute time and traffic congestion level are higher, owing to its larger population and density, unlike Kansas City, where commutes are generally shorter and less congested.
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