Best Chicago to Charlotte Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Chicago to Charlotte and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 755 mile move from Illinois to North Carolina go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 58 Chicago to Charlotte 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 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago compared to Charlotte. 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.

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Best Chicago to Charlotte Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1606 Movers, Inc.9.369.27Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHGContact
3A1 Movers, Inc9.329.57Authorized For HHGContact
4You Move Me Charlotte9.329.23Authorized For HHGContact
5Road Haugs Moving & Storage9.069.1Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Chicago to Charlotte

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 755 miles from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC will cost on average $2,423 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Charlotte move is roughly $5,814. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,631300 ft³5.44
1 Bedroom$2,423450 ft³5.39
2 Bedrooms$4,001750 ft³5.34
3 Bedrooms$5,8141100 ft³5.29
4 Bedrooms$8,3761600 ft³5.24
5+ Bedrooms$9,3331800 ft³5.19
*Please note: These Illinois to North Carolina moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Illinois & North Carolina. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed IL to NC mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Charlotte to Chicago guide.

Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Charlotte Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

606 Movers, Inc. Logo

606 Movers, Inc.

Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,152+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Move-tastic! Logo

Move-tastic!

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 15,326+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers28
Total Annual Miles Moved90,866 (2023)
View Full Review
2
A1 Movers, Inc Logo

A1 Movers, Inc

Exceptional9.32/10
based on 776+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3309154 / 1055273

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved6,800 (2024)
View Full Review
3
You Move Me Charlotte Logo

You Move Me Charlotte

Exceptional9.32/10
based on 2,826+ data points

4222 Barringer Dr

Charlotte, NC, 28217

About You Move Me Charlotte

You Move Me is a franchised moving company that has locations all across North America, including Charlotte, NC. Serving the entire...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Piano moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2518689 / 878140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2024)
View Full Review
4
Road Haugs Moving & Storage Logo

Road Haugs Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.06/10
based on 1,682+ data points

2700 Hutchison McDonald Rd Suite A

Charlotte, NC, 28269

About Road Haugs Moving & Storage

Road Haugs Moving & Storage is a Charlotte-based moving company that is second-generation family-owned and operated. Primarily executing local residential moves,...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Specialty Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2535952 / 882889

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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. Charlotte Neighborhood Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be challenging, but it helps to draw comparisons between your current and future neighborhoods. This guide aims to help you acclimate to Charlotte, NC by using Chicago, IL & Charlotte, NC neighborhood comparisons as a reference point.

ChicagoCharlotteHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkSouth EndTrendy, vibrant, near downtown
LakeviewPlaza MidwoodDiverse, lively, night-life
West LoopNoDaHip, artsy, food scene
Gold CoastMyers ParkUpscale, historic homes
Wicker ParkDilworthTrendy, picturesque, young professionals
River NorthUptownUrban, entertainment district
Hyde ParkElizabethAcademic, cultural centers
Logan SquareSouth ParkEmerging, family-friendly
Old TownFourth WardHistoric, close-knit community
The LoopCenter CityBusiness hub, skyscrapers

If you love the eclectic vibe of Lincoln Park in Chicago, with its Lincoln Park Zoo and bustling restaurants, you'll find a similar energy in Charlotte's South End, known for its trendy eateries and proximity to downtown. Comparable to River North's vibrant entertainment district, Charlotte's Uptown offers a bustling nightlife with spots like Brewers at 4001 Yancey and a wide array of entertainment venues. If you cherish the upscale charm and historic homes of Gold Coast in Chicago, you'll appreciate Myers Park in Charlotte with its elegant tree-lined streets and Southern elegance.

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Things to Do in Charlotte

  • Explore Carowinds amusement park.
  • Stroll through Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
  • Visit the Mint Museum.
  • Watch a game at Truist Field.
  • Enjoy U.S. National Whitewater Center activities.
  • Relax at Freedom Park.
  • Tour Bechtler Museum of Modern Art.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Charlotte

Moving from a city you're familiar with to a new one can be daunting. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC . Understanding both the upsides and the challenges can help you make an informed decision, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Harsh winters
  • Higher crime rates
  • Higher living costs
  • Dense urban living
Charlotte, NC iconCharlotte, NC
  • Milder winters
  • Lower crime rates
  • Lower living costs
  • More suburban feel
Charlotte, NC iconCharlotte, NC
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Less diversity in dining
  • Less public transit options
  • Fewer cultural institutions
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse dining options
  • Extensive public transit
  • Rich cultural institutions

Charlotte, NC, offers a refreshing shift with its lower living costs and milder winters compared to Chicago, IL. You'll trade the windy city's biting cold for a more temperate climate, allowing for more year-round outdoor activities. The relocation also means adjusting to a quieter nightlife but embracing a city blooming with green spaces like Freedom Park and McDowell Nature Preserve. Charlotte's burgeoning food scene, with places like Kindred on Main Street in Davidson, offers a diverse and evolving dining experience. While it may lack in the breadth of cultural institutions compared to Chicago, destinations like the Mint Museum ensure that your cultural and artistic cravings are satisfied. Thus, although you might miss Chicago's extensive public transit system and vibrant urban life, Charlotte welcomes you with a promising blend of suburban tranquility and a growing, dynamic urban scene.

Chicago vs. Charlotte Food Guide

As you prepare to move, understanding the local culture through its food is key. In this guide, we're going to make a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Charlotte, providing you insights into the food scenes of both cities, so you can savor what awaits in your new home.

ChicagoCharlotte
Most iconic local food itemDeep Dish PizzaPulled Pork BBQ
Most popular meat dishItalian Beef SandwichFried Chicken
Most popular street food itemChicago Style Hot DogCarolina BBQ Sandwich
Most popular vegan foodSeitan WingsJackfruit BBQ
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
  • Mac's Speed Shop
  • Midwood Smokehouse
  • Optimist Hall
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In transitioning from Chicago to Charlotte, you're moving from a city known for its deep dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches to one where BBQ reigns supreme. While Chicago offers the classic Chicago style hot dog as street food, in Charlotte, you'll find the Carolina BBQ sandwich is a go-to option. Charlotte also tends to lean more towards health-conscious and vegan-friendly options, with dishes like jackfruit BBQ featuring prominently in local eateries. You can explore these culinary delights in neighborhoods like South End, especially at places like Optimist Hall, which is a trendy food hall housing some of the city's most iconic eateries. Whether you're craving gourmet dining or comforting street food, Charlotte has diverse offerings that cater to all palates.

Chicago vs. Charlotte Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering great places to eat. This chart aims to ease the transition for anyone moving from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC by comparing top dining spots. Whether you're a foodie seeking culinary adventures or simply looking for comforting flavors, this guide will help you find your new favorite restaurant using your current Chicago favorites as a reference point.

ChicagoCharlotteWhat You'll Love
AlineaBarrington’sCosy, fine dining with an innovative menu
Giordano’sHawthorne’s NY PizzaClassic, deep-dish pizza in a relaxed setting
The Purple PigHaberdishComfort Southern cuisine with a modern twist
Rick Bayless' Frontera GrillCabo Fish TacoAuthentically prepared Mexican dishes with fresh, local ingredients
Portillo's Hot DogsJJ’s Red HotsDelicious, high-quality hot dogs and unique toppings
Girl & The GoatKindredInnovative and eclectic dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabThe Capital GrilleLuxurious steak and seafood with impeccable service
Gene & GeorgettiBeef ‘N BottleClassic steakhouse with a cozy, vintage vibe
Lou Malnati’s PizzeriaCapishe: Real Italian KitchenAuthentic, Neapolitan-style pizza and Italian dishes
Au ChevalBang Bang BurgersGourmet burgers and a creative menu in an upbeat setting

In the journey to discover Charlotte's culinary scene, take comfort in knowing that your cherished Chicago flavors and dining experiences can find close counterparts. Notable mentions include Hawthorne’s NY Pizza, which mirrors the cherished deep-dish pizza experience from Giordano’s, bringing you a slice of Chicago with each bite. For enthusiasts of the authentic Mexican cuisine provided by Rick Bayless' Frontera Grill, Cabo Fish Taco stands ready with fresh and flavorful dishes that echo the essence of Mexican gastronomy. Furthermore, the eclectic and innovative dining experience at Girl & The Goat finds its match in Kindred’s warm atmosphere and inventive plates. Embrace these dining gems as you explore your new home, where familiar flavors blend with Charlotte's unique culinary identity.

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Ready to start your move?

Chicago vs. Charlotte Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC real estate is crucial. Understanding the differences in housing costs , architecture , walkability , and other factors can guide your decision-making process.

ComparisonChicagoCharlotte
Typical Architecture StyleModern and Historic BlendColonial Revival and Craftsman
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingLake Views, Proximity to Public TransitLarge Yards, Community Amenities

Chicago offers a more urban lifestyle with its high walkability and bikeability scores, catering to those who value accessibility and public transit. The city's real estate listings frequently highlight lake views, underpinning the premium on scenic vistas. In contrast, Charlotte's real estate tends towards larger yards and emphasis on community amenities, reflecting a preference for space and neighborhood facilities. The architecture in Charlotte leans towards Colonial Revival and Craftsman styles, offering a different aesthetic from Chicago's blend of modern and historic buildings. This distinction in lifestyle and property features might influence your decision on where you'll call home next.

Chicago vs. Charlotte Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather in your new location, Charlotte, NC, will compare to what you're accustomed to in Chicago, IL. This comparison will help you prepare for the differences in climate and seasonal changes you can expect.

Summer icon
82°F / 63°F

Chicago, IL

89°F / 68°F

Charlotte, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
32°F / 18°F

Chicago, IL

51°F / 30°F

Charlotte, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

43

Charlotte, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
36

Chicago, IL

4

Charlotte, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonChicagoCharlotte
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersBlizzards, Cold WavesHurricanes, Ice Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Chicago to Charlotte means you'll enjoy warmer summers and milder winters, with a noticeable increase in sunny days. The higher number of days of sunshine and slightly lower humidity in Charlotte may contribute to a more pleasant day-to-day experience, especially if you enjoy spending time outdoors. However, it's important to note that while snow is less common in Charlotte, the city does experience significantly more rainfall and the potential for hurricanes and ice storms, so planning for these events is essential. Regardless, the overall milder climate and improved air quality can enhance your quality of life in Charlotte.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Charlotte

When considering a move from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC, it's crucial to grasp how the financial parameters and economic environment compare. Knowing these differences can make your transition smoother and help with budgeting in your new city.

ComparisonChicagoCharlotte
Avg. Household Income$66,576$70,869
Cost of Living Index116.993.2
State Income Tax4.955.25
Avg. Property Tax2.161.08
Avg. Sales Tax10.257.25
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Manufacturing, Information TechnologyBanking, Airlines, Energy
AffluenceModerateIncreasing
PovertyNoticeableComparable
HomelessnessSignificantModerate

Understanding the financial environment of Chicago and Charlotte reveals notable differences. While both cities boast dynamic economies, Charlotte offers a slightly lower cost of living, combined with a burgeoning affluence that contrasts with Chicago's moderate standing. Despite Chicago's higher average household income, Charlotte compensates with a more affordable living index and lower property taxes, making it an attractive option for many. Additionally, the distinctive industrial landscapes of both cities highlight diverse job opportunities, reflecting their unique economic characters. Considering these factors can be crucial in easing your transition and ensuring financial stability in your new home.

Chicago vs. Charlotte Political & Religious Comparison

When moving from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC, understanding the local community's dynamics is crucial. This comparison will provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Chicago & Charlotte, helping you know what to expect in your new home.

ChicagoCharlotte
Political Make-upStrongly DemocraticLeans Democratic
Local PoliticsHighly active, urban progressive policiesMix of urban and suburban policies, moderate activism
ReligionDiverse: Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, MuslimPrimarily Protestant, with significant Catholic and growing Muslim communities

Chicago and Charlotte share Democratic leanings, though Charlotte presents a more mixed political landscape, blending urban and suburban agendas. Local politics in Chicago are marked by vigorous activism and progressive initiatives, reflecting its urbanity. In contrast, Charlotte's political scene engages a broader range of voices, leading to moderate activism and a diverse set of policies. Religion plays a significant role in both communities; however, Charlotte tends to have a stronger Protestant presence, while Chicago boasts a wide range of religious affiliations, including Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, and Muslim communities. Understanding these nuances can help you better integrate into your new city's social fabric.

Chicago vs. Charlotte Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Relocating from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC, you'll find significant differences in your daily commute and traffic experiences. This guide aims to help you better understand the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Charlotte by examining key aspects of each city's driving and transit conditions.

ComparisonChicagoCharlotte
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3425
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesNo

When moving from Chicago to Charlotte, you'll notice a refreshing change in commute times, with Charlotte offering a quicker average journey to work. However, Charlotte's public transit isn't as robust as Chicago's, where the CTA provides extensive bus and train services, making it easier to navigate the city without relying on personal vehicles. This makes owning a car almost a necessity in Charlotte for convenience and broader access, as the city scores lower in terms of public transport availability compared to Chicago. On the bright side, Charlotte experiences less traffic congestion, which could result in a more pleasant driving experience during your daily commutes.

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