Best Chicago to Buffalo Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Buffalo and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 538 mile move from Illinois to New York go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 39 Chicago to Buffalo 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 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 Buffalo. 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 Buffalo 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 | 9.33 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Wayfinder Moving Services | 9.03 | 8.92 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Joey Z's Moving | 8.90 | 8.66 | Active | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Buffalo
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 538 miles from Chicago, IL to Buffalo, NY will cost on average $2,239 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Buffalo move is roughly $5,362. 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 | $1,507 | 300 ft³ | 5.02 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,239 | 450 ft³ | 4.97 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,694 | 750 ft³ | 4.92 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,362 | 1100 ft³ | 4.87 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,720 | 1600 ft³ | 4.82 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,595 | 1800 ft³ | 4.77 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Buffalo to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Buffalo 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) |
Wayfinder Moving Services
75 Comet Ave
Buffalo, NY, 14216
About Wayfinder Moving Services
Established in 2018, Wayfinder Moving Services has locations in both Buffalo, NY and Jamestown. As a business that specializes in...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3104397 / 79366 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 9 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 220,000 (2022) |
Joey Z's Moving
North Tonawanda, NY, 14120
About Joey Z's Moving
Backed by over 35 years of experience, Joey Z’s Moving serves all of New York State with reliable residential and commercial...
Services
- Home & Apartment moving
- Senior Moves
- Business & Office moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3348965 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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. Buffalo Neighborhood Comparison
When considering a move from Chicago, IL to Buffalo, NY, understanding the cultural and social fabric of your new city can be a challenge. To aid in this transition, we’ve created a comparison focusing on local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Buffalo, NY . This will help you find a new home that retains a familiar feel, easing the adjustment process significantly.
| Chicago | Buffalo | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | Elmwood Village | Vibrant, artsy community |
| Wicker Park | Allentown | Eclectic, nightlife-centric |
| Gold Coast | Delaware District | Upscale, historic architecture |
| Loop | Downtown Buffalo | Urban core, professional hub |
| Hyde Park | North Park | Diverse, home to cultural institutions |
| Lakeview | North Buffalo | Family-friendly, active lifestyle |
| Andersonville | Hamlin Park | Quaint, close-knit community |
| River North | Larkinville | Industrial revival, modern entertainment |
| West Loop | Black Rock | Thriving food scene, waterfront access |
| South Loop | South Buffalo | Historic, with a sense of renewal |
If the eclectic, creative spirit of Wicker Park has always appealed to you, Buffalo's Allentown neighborhood, with its vibrant nightlife, music scene, and unique restaurants like Gabriel's Gate, may feel like a slice of home. Those drawn to the stately architecture and upscale living in Chicago's Gold Coast might find a match in Buffalo's Delaware District, which boasts majestic homes and walkable streets lined with mature trees. For Chicagoans who enjoy Lincoln Park's mix of green spaces and cultural attractions, Elmwood Village offers a similar experience with its array of cafes, boutiques, and proximity to parks like Bidwell Parkway, fostering a strong community vibe reminiscent of your Chicago favorite.
Things to Do in Buffalo
Explore Albright-Knox Art Gallery- Watch a game at Sahlen Field
- Visit Buffalo Zoo
- Stroll through Botanical Gardens
- Enjoy Niagara Falls tour
- Skate at Canalside
- Taste wings at Anchor Bar
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Buffalo
Moving from one city to another involves weighing both the positive and negative aspects of the change. This comparison chooses to focus distinctly on what makes moving from Chicago, IL to Buffalo, NY both appealing and challenging , aiming for an honest reflection on the transition ahead.
Chicago, IL- Higher crime rates
- Expensive housing
- Heavier traffic
- Colder winters
- Larger population
Buffalo, NY- Lower crime rates
- More affordable
- Less congestion
- More snowfall
- Smaller, tighter community
Buffalo, NY- Quieter nightlife
- Smaller cultural venues
- Less variety
- More car-dependent
- Fewer major teams
Chicago, IL- Vibrant nightlife
- Rich cultural scene
- Diverse dining options
- Extensive public transit
- Major sports teams
While Chicago boasts a sprawling skyline, Buffalo greets with a charming, more accessible cityscape. Chicago's diverse dining scene, from the iconic deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s to global cuisines along Devon Avenue, contrasts with Buffalo's famed comfort foods like the original Buffalo wings from Anchor Bar. While you may miss the extensive public transit system of Chicago, Buffalo offers easier navigation with less congestion. The dramatic winters of both cities present different charms; while Chicago's lakeshore freezes over, Buffalo’s proximity to Niagara Falls offers breathtaking winter vistas. Both cities boast passionate sports cultures, yet transitioning from the intense loyalty to Chicago's teams to Buffalo's spirited community rallying around the Bills and Sabres promises a unique sporting camaraderie.
Chicago vs. Buffalo Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Buffalo, highlighting the importance of food in understanding the cultural vibe and lifestyle of these cities. Here's a glance at what each location offers to satisfy your culinary curiosity and cravings as you contemplate your move.
| Chicago | Buffalo | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | Buffalo Wings |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef Sandwich | Beef on Weck |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-Style Hot Dog | Stuffed Banana Peppers |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Buffalo Cauliflower |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When it comes to distinctive local cuisine, both Chicago and Buffalo have much to boast. Chicago's deep-dish pizza, often found in iconic spots like Lou Malnati's, and the classic Chicago-style hot dog are not just meals, they're experiences imbued with the city's rich cultural heritage. Similarly, Buffalo wings, originating from Anchor Bar in Buffalo, are a must-try for anyone moving to or visiting the city. The beef on Weck, a unique sandwich to the area, can be delightfully discovered at Schwabl's among other locales. These dishes not only represent the culinary spirit of their respective cities but also connect communities and create memorable dining experiences.
Chicago vs. Buffalo Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering places that feel like home. This restaurant comparison is aimed at helping you bridge the gap between Chicago and Buffalo, using your current affinity for Chicago's diverse dining scene to find your next favorite spots in Buffalo . Whether you're in search of high-end dining, a casual bite, or iconic meals, this guide will steer you in the right direction.
| Chicago | Buffalo | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Tempo | Upscale dining with a creative menu |
| Portillo's | Ted's Hot Dogs | Iconic hot dog and burger spot |
| Girl & The Goat | Marble + Rye | Inventive dishes with a comfortable ambiance |
| Giordano's | La Nova | Famous for Buffalo-style pizza |
| The Publican | The Black Sheep | Farm-to-table dining with a seasonal menu |
| Big Star | Lloyd Taco Factory | Creative tacos and a fun atmosphere |
| Smoque BBQ | Dinosaur Bar-B-Que | Beloved for smoked meats and live music |
| Au Cheval | Grover's Bar & Grill | Renowned for colossal burgers |
| Joe's Seafood | Seabar | Well-known for sushi and an innovative menu |
| Pequod's Pizza | Imperial Pizza | Thick crust and generously topped pizzas |
In the quest for a new culinary home, the transition from Chicago's eclectic eateries to Buffalo's diverse dining landscape can be seamless. Take Alinea's inventive, boundary-pushing tasting menus; those seeking a similar level of creativity without the same culinary practice can find solace in Tempo's upscale, thoughtfully prepared dishes. Meanwhile, fans of Chicago's deep-dish icon Giordano's will be delighted by La Nova's rendition of Buffalo-style pizza, offering a comforting taste of familiarity with a local twist. And for those who make a tradition out of casual, yet memorable dining like the experience found at Big Star, Lloyd Taco Factory's unique tacos and vibrant atmosphere promise to keep the spirit of relaxed, gourmet exploration alive and well in Buffalo.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Buffalo Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is often a top consideration when planning a move. Understanding how the housing markets of Chicago, IL, and Buffalo, NY compare is crucial in making an informed decision. This comparison will delve into aspects such as cost, architecture, walkability, and more to offer a comprehensive view.
| Comparison | Chicago | Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Contemporary | Colonial and Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, Proximity to public transit | Historic details, Spacious yards |
Moving from Chicago to Buffalo, you might notice a significant difference in housing costs, with Buffalo offering more affordable options for both purchasing and renting homes. Chicago's real estate market leans towards modern and contemporary architecture, reflecting its urban lifestyle, whereas Buffalo showcases charming colonial and Victorian homes, often with spacious yards—a nod to its rich history. While both cities boast adequate walkability and bikeability, Chicago slightly edges out with its infrastructure, accommodating a bustling urban lifestyle. However, Buffalo's close-knit community feel and slower pace of life, coupled with its historic details in housing, might be more appealing to those seeking a blend of urban accessibility and suburban comfort.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Buffalo, NY
1. Elmwood Village: Known for its walkable streets and the Elmwood Village Farmers Market, where you can often find pet-friendly vendors and plenty of space for your furry friends to explore.
2. Allentown: This vibrant neighborhood not only boasts a variety of pet-friendly dining options but is also home to the Allentown Association, which organizes events that are welcoming to pets.
3. Hertel Avenue: Famous for its Hertel Avenue Poutine & Cream, which offers outdoor seating where pets are welcome, and its close proximity to several parks where you can enjoy a day out with your pet.
Chicago vs. Buffalo Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move, it's crucial to compare weather patterns between Chicago, IL, and Buffalo, NY . Understanding these differences can help you prepare for what lies ahead, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.
Chicago, IL
Buffalo, NY
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Buffalo, NY
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Buffalo, NY
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Buffalo, NY
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good to Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Lake-effect Snow, Blizzards |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In comparing weather conditions between Chicago and Buffalo, one significant difference stands out: Buffalo experiences a far greater annual snowfall, averaging 95 inches compared to Chicago's 36 inches. This is largely due to Buffalo's location near the Great Lakes, which contributes to heavy lake-effect snow in winter. Additionally, Buffalo has fewer days of sunshine annually, meaning those moving from Chicago should prepare for more overcast days. Both cities have similar summer temperatures and humidity levels, but if you're not a fan of heavy snow, Buffalo's winters might be a challenge.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Buffalo
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp the financial implications. This comparison will highlight the cost of living and economic differences between Chicago, IL and Buffalo, NY, offering a clearer picture of what to expect. By understanding these changes, you can plan your move with confidence.
| Comparison | Chicago | Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $40,669 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 95.8 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 6.33 to 8.82 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.12 | 2.83 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 8.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Financial Services, Manufacturing, Information Technology | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Moderately affluent |
| Poverty | Considerable | Significant |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Moderate |
Transitioning from Chicago to Buffalo, you might notice a decrease in your cost of living, particularly with Buffalo's lower Cost of Living index at 79.1 compared to Chicago's 106.9. However, this comes with a trade-off. While the average household income is less in Buffalo, the state income tax has a progressive structure, which could mean a higher tax rate depending on your income. Property taxes are also higher in Buffalo, reflecting its unique economic landscape. Despite these financial nuances, both cities offer a moderately affluent lifestyle but have their challenges with poverty and homelessness, highlighting the importance of comprehensive urban planning and support systems in urban environments.
Chicago vs. Buffalo Political & Religious Comparison
In preparing for your move from Chicago, IL to Buffalo, NY, it's insightful to consider the local dynamics that shape each city. This quick overview focuses on the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Chicago & Buffalo, giving you a glimpse into the community you're moving into.
| Chicago | Buffalo | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Liberal, with focus on social issues | Progressive with strong union influence |
| Religion | Diverse, with significant Catholic presence | Religiously diverse, Catholic majority |
When you move from Chicago to Buffalo, you'll find yourself in communities that both lean Democratic, though there may be variations in the intensity of these political leanings. Chicago tends to be more liberal, especially on social issues, reflecting its larger, more diverse population. Buffalo, while also progressive, has a pronounced union influence due to its storied industrial history. Religion plays a significant role in both cities' cultures, with Catholicism being the largest denomination. This religious influence can be seen in community events and institutions, from Chicago's Archdiocese initiatives to Buffalo's Diocese outreach programs. These aspects of your new city endeavor to create a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere.
Chicago vs. Buffalo Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Buffalo is crucial if you're planning to move. This comparison aims to give you a better sense of what your daily commute and traffic experience might be like in these two cities.
| Comparison | Chicago | Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some planning | Yes, but more challenging |
In both Chicago and Buffalo, the ability to navigate the city without a personal vehicle exists, but the experiences differ significantly due to variations in public transit options and the average commute times. Chicago's comprehensive transit system makes getting around without a car easier, while in Buffalo, you might find the need for a car more frequently, despite a decent public transit system. The contrast in traffic congestion levels also plays a huge role, where Chicago experiences higher levels, potentially lengthening commute times outside of just public transportation systems.
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