Best Chicago to Manchester Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Chicago to Manchester and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,027 mile move from Illinois to New Hampshire go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 45 Chicago to Manchester 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 $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago compared to Manchester. 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 Manchester 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 | Fit 2 Move | 9.26 | 9.16 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Bridges Bros Movers | 8.99 | 9 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Chicago to Manchester
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,027 miles from Chicago, IL to Manchester, NH will cost on average $2,655 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Manchester move is roughly $6,379. 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 | $1,785 | 300 ft³ | 5.95 |
1 Bedroom | $2,655 | 450 ft³ | 5.90 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,387 | 750 ft³ | 5.85 |
3 Bedrooms | $6,379 | 1100 ft³ | 5.80 |
4 Bedrooms | $9,198 | 1600 ft³ | 5.75 |
5+ Bedrooms | $10,258 | 1800 ft³ | 5.70 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Manchester to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Manchester 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) |

Fit 2 Move
Dover, NH, 03820
About Fit 2 Move
Fit 2 Move is a veteran-owned moving company in Rochester, serving the seacoast, central, southern, and lakes regions of New Hampshire,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Residential Moving Local & Long Distance
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4059585 / 1540193 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
Registered Drivers | 5 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |

Bridges Bros Movers
29 Garfield St
Exeter, NH, 03833
About Bridges Bros Movers
Bridges Bros Movers has been helping people move their belongings for over a hundred years. It is a family-owned company established...
Services
- Local and long-distance moving services
- Move planning
- Packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3152985 / 105934 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
Registered Drivers | 10 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 131,248 (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. Manchester Neighborhood Comparison
In this guide, we'll help you get acquainted with local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Manchester, NH by comparing popular areas in each city. This will offer a familiar baseline as you transition to your new home.
Chicago | Manchester | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Lincoln Park | North End | Vibrant culture and dining |
Wicker Park | Downtown Manchester | Artsy, youthful vibe |
Lakeview | Hanover Hill | Family-friendly, lakeside parks |
Gold Coast | Straw/Smyth | Historic charm with upscale appeal |
West Loop | Amoskeag | Trendy, with loft-style spaces |
Andersonville | Kalivas Union | Eclectic shopping and dining |
Hyde Park | Central Manchester | Educational hubs and diversity |
Logan Square | Piscataquog | Eclectic and up-and-coming |
River North | Millyard | Chic and professional with amenities |
Old Town | Somerville | Quaint streets and community events |
If you're moving from Chicago's lively Lincoln Park, with its bustling culture and array of attractions like the Lincoln Park Zoo and Chicago History Museum, you'll find the vibe mirrored in Manchester's North End. This neighborhood offers its own vibrant dining scene and community events akin to the feel of Armitage Avenue. Meanwhile, if you're used to the artistic vibe of Wicker Park, filled with galleries and live music venues, Downtown Manchester offers similar cultural experiences at places like the Palace Theatre. For those who love Andersonville's eclectic shops and cafes, Kalivas Union presents a comparable mix of unique local businesses, providing a welcoming community found along streets like Massabesic. This comparative guide aims to make your move feel less daunting and more like discovering the familiar in a new setting.

Things to Do in Manchester
- Explore downtown Manchester's Palace Theatre
- Enjoy trails at Livingston Park
- Visit the Currier Museum of Art
- Discover aviation history at Aviation Museum of NH
- Shop at The Mall of New Hampshire
- Catch a Fisher Cats game at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium
- Relax along the Merrimack River
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Manchester
Considering a move from Chicago, IL to Manchester, NH involves weighing the strengths and weaknesses of both cities. This comparison offers an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make an informed decision about what moving from Chicago, IL to Manchester, NH entails.
- Harsh winters
- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Higher crime rates
- Milder winters
- More affordable
- Less traffic
- Safer neighborhoods
- Limited cultural outlets
- Fewer restaurant choices
- Car-dependent city
- No coastal views
- Vibrant arts scene
- Diverse dining options
- Public transportation
- Lakeshore drive views
Moving from Chicago's bustling streets to a quieter life in Manchester has its set of trade-offs. For nature lovers, areas such as Derryfield Park in Manchester offer a serene escape compared to the urban parks of Chicago like Lincoln Park. Dining in Manchester might not match the diverse options like Chicago's West Loop, but local favorites such as Puritan Backroom provide unique culinary experiences. Lastly, while Chicago has integrated transport networks such as the CTA, you might appreciate quieter road trips in Manchester, navigating at your own pace.
Chicago vs. Manchester Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and plays a significant role in shaping what it's like to live in an area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Manchester , providing insights to better inform you about the food scene where you might be moving.
Chicago | Manchester | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | Lobster Roll |
Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef Sandwich | Prime Rib |
Most popular street food item | Chicago Hot Dog | Steak and Cheese Sub |
Most popular vegan food | Vegan Pizza | Vegetable Stir Fry |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, Manchester offers a distinctive New England cuisine where lobster rolls are a must-try, particularly in the coastal areas. You can explore these local delights at places like The Bridge Café, located in the vibrant downtown area. For those looking to dive into Manchester’s evolving foodie scene, areas like the Millyard are great spots to explore. Here, you’ll find establishments like The Foundry, known for its creative New Hampshire fare. Manchester may not have the abundance of food trucks seen in Chicago, but its emerging food scene offers a unique charm with diverse dining options.
Chicago vs. Manchester Restaurant Comparison
Food is a key factor in making a city feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you find new favorite eateries as you transition from Chicago to Manchester by using your current hometown as a guide.
Chicago | Manchester | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Alinea | Jumpin' Jay's Fish Café | Sophisticated dining with an emphasis on creative seafood dishes |
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Portland Pie Company | Known for their deep dish and unique pizza combinations |
The Purple Pig | Cotton | A focus on classic dishes and craft cocktails |
Girl & the Goat | Republic Café | Offers small plates with a wide range of flavors |
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | The Old Salt Restaurant | Rich seafood offerings and hearty steak selections |
Portillo's | The Puritan Backroom | Casual comfort food and famous chicken tenders |
Big Star | Luna | Known for street tacos and vibrant atmosphere |
Au Cheval | The Foundry | Renowned for their burgers and industrial-chic vibe |
Francesca's | Campo Enoteca | Offers authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy setting |
Roka Akor | MHA: Mary's Hampstead Alehouse | Offers contemporary Asian-fusion dining |
As you settle into Manchester, you'll find that Jumpin' Jay's Fish Café offers the same level of refined dining and creative seafood options that you enjoyed at Alinea in Chicago. If you cherished the deep-dish goodness from Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, Portland Pie Company awaits with its own unique take on pizza. For those who loved the vibrant atmosphere and inventive small plates from Girl & the Goat, Republic Café offers a wide range of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Meanwhile, Luna’s street tacos and lively scene ensure that the spirit of Big Star is never far away. Each of these Manchester spots captures the essence of what made Chicago dining special for you, helping to create a new set of beloved eateries in your new city.

Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Manchester Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's essential to understand how Chicago and Manchester compare in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle to make an informed decision on your relocation.
Comparison | Chicago | Manchester |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Brick Bungalows | Colonial and Victorian |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most Popular Items Mentioned in Real Estate Listings | Open Floor Plan, Fireplace, Hardwood Floors | Spacious Backyard, Finished Basement, Hardwood Floors |
Both cities offer distinct architectural styles that contribute to their unique characters. In Chicago , you'll often find charming brick bungalows and a vibrant urban lifestyle with better walkability compared to Manchester , where Colonial and Victorian styles are prevalent. The cost of living in Manchester housing is generally more affordable, with lower median home prices and rents, making it appealing for more budget-conscious movers. Additionally, while Chicago's real estate market often highlights features like open floor plans and fireplaces, Manchester listings frequently mention spacious backyards and finished basements, appealing to those who value outdoor space.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Manchester, NH
1. North End : With spacious parks like Livingston Park and nearby pet-friendly cafes, the North End offers plenty of opportunities for you and your furry companions to enjoy the outdoors together.
2. Downtown Manchester : Home to several dog-friendly restaurants and coffee shops, Downtown Manchester allows you to explore the vibrant city life while enjoying outings with your pet by your side.
3. Southside : This neighborhood features easy access to hiking trails and dog parks, making it a perfect haven for you and your active pets to stay connected to nature while living city-close.
Chicago vs. Manchester Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Chicago, IL to Manchester, NH , understanding the weather differences between these two cities is crucial. Weather impacts daily life, influencing everything from your wardrobe to your daily commute, so a clear comparison helps you prepare for these changes.
Chicago, IL
Manchester, NH
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Manchester, NH
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Manchester, NH
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Manchester, NH
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Chicago | Manchester |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Tornadoes | Flooding |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Chicago to Manchester, you'll experience slightly milder summer temperatures and colder winter lows. Manchester enjoys a few more days of sunshine each year, which may brighten your mood during those harsh winters. Notably, the air quality in Manchester tends to be better, which can be a relief if you have respiratory issues. However, those with allergies might face different challenges due to the prevalence of birch pollen in Manchester's spring season. The increase in annual rainfall and snowfall in Manchester might require some adjustment in how you handle wet and snowy conditions.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Manchester
If you're moving from Chicago to Manchester , it's important to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. By contrasting financial factors, you can better plan for your new life and make informed decisions about your future expenses and savings.
Comparison | Chicago | Manchester |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $73,639 |
Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 116.8 |
State Income Tax | 4.95% | 0% |
Avg. Property Tax | 2.3% | 2.22% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25% | 0% |
Top 3 Industries | Finance, Manufacturing, Health Services | Health Services, Education, Manufacturing |
Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
Poverty | Noticeable | Less Noticeable |
Homelessness | Significant | Low |
When comparing financial dynamics, it's important to note that Manchester's absence of state income tax and sales tax can significantly benefit your disposable income, unlike Chicago's relatively higher rates. The cost of living is also slightly higher in Manchester than in Chicago, which may influence your budget allocations for housing and other amenities. If you're employed in industries like health services, you'll find both cities equally conducive, though the job markets may slightly differ. Exploring these aspects could help you optimize your financial stability and quality of life after the move.
Chicago vs. Manchester Political & Religious Comparison
Exploring the differences between Chicago and Manchester can offer valuable insights when considering a move. This quick comparison looks at the politics between Chicago & Manchester , highlighting the political and religious landscapes that shape these communities.
Chicago | Manchester | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Liberal-leaning | Moderate |
Local Politics | Democratically controlled city council | Bipartisan city government |
Religion | Diverse, including Catholic, Protestant, Jewish communities | Predominantly Christian |
As you consider moving to Manchester, understanding the political landscape can help you feel more at home. Unlike Chicago, which is known for its liberal stance, Manchester offers a more moderate political environment. This might result in a different approach to local governance and public policies. Additionally, while both cities have diverse religious communities, Chicago is known for its wide range of religious establishments, such as the [Holy Name Cathedral](https://holynamecathedral.org/) for Catholics, and various temples and synagogues. In contrast, Manchester tends to be more predominantly Christian, reflecting its small-town New England character. This change in the religious environment might influence community events and activities you participate in.
Chicago vs. Manchester Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When considering a move, it's essential to compare the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Manchester to better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like. Knowing the differences can help you adapt easily to your new environment.
Comparison | Chicago | Manchester |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 35 | 25 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without a car? | Yes | No |
In Chicago, the extensive public transit system makes it easier to live without a car, thanks to the reliability of options like the Chicago Transit Authority. The bustling nature of the city does mean higher congestion levels, with long commute times even for those who live relatively close to their destination. In contrast, Manchester, while offering a less congested and quicker commute, lacks the same level of public transportation infrastructure, making a car almost a necessity for getting around. While you might enjoy less time in traffic, you'll need to plan differently to reach nearby points of interest, like local eateries and attractions.



Additional Resources
Chicago Moving Services
Popular Chicago to New Hampshire Routes
Popular Moving Resources