Best Chicago to Tacoma Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Tacoma and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,164 mile move from Illinois to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 57 Chicago to Tacoma 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 $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago compared to Tacoma. 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 Tacoma 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 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.33 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | First Due Movers | 9.25 | 9.06 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Tacoma
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,164 miles from Chicago, IL to Tacoma, WA will cost on average $3,621 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Tacoma move is roughly $8,742. 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 | $2,429 | 300 ft³ | 8.10 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,621 | 450 ft³ | 8.05 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,998 | 750 ft³ | 8.00 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,742 | 1100 ft³ | 7.95 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,636 | 1600 ft³ | 7.90 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,126 | 1800 ft³ | 7.85 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Tacoma to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Tacoma 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) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
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) |
First Due Movers
8126 304th Ave SE
Preston, WA, 98050
About First Due Movers
First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1990914 / 865709 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 205,000 (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. Tacoma Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new home's neighborhoods. Our guide is designed to help you find your bearings by offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Tacoma, WA . By understanding the similarities between Chicago neighborhoods and their Tacoma equivalents, you can start to envision your life in the Pacific Northwest with a bit more clarity.
| Chicago | Tacoma | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | North End | Vibrant community life |
| Wicker Park | Proctor District | Eclectic shopping and dining |
| Hyde Park | Old Town | Rich history and cultural diversity |
| Loop | Downtown Tacoma | Urban living and cultural attractions |
| Gold Coast | Stadium District | Upscale homes and amenities |
| River North | Point Ruston | Modern waterfront living |
| Andersonville | 6th Ave | Lively nightlife and inclusive community |
| Logan Square | Hilltop | Historic charm with a creative twist |
| Lakeview | Ruston | Family-friendly atmosphere with waterfront views |
| South Loop | Eastside | Growing area with diverse opportunities |
Each neighborhood comparison offers a slice of life from both cities. For instance, if you've enjoyed the vibrant community and green spaces of Lincoln Park, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Tacoma's North End, which boasts parks like Point Defiance and a variety of local eateries and shops along Proctor Street. Similarly, Wicker Park's eclectic and artistic vibe is mirrored in the Proctor District, where unique shops and cafes, like Bluebeard Coffee Roasters, cater to a creative and diverse community. Meanwhile, the Loop's urban beat and architectural wonders have a counterpart in Downtown Tacoma, where cultural attractions such as the Museum of Glass and historic spots like Union Station contribute to a rich urban experience. These comparisons illustrate how Tacoma can offer a seamless transition with neighborhoods that echo the charm, vibrancy, and diversity of Chicago's beloved communities.
Things to Do in Tacoma
Explore Point Defiance Park- Visit Museum of Glass
- Stroll along Ruston Way Waterfront
- Shop at Proctor District
- Catch a movie at The Grand Cinema
- Enjoy America's Car Museum
- Attend Tacoma Art Walk
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Tacoma
Moving from one city to another is a major decision, filled with both excitement and apprehension. Through examining the pros and cons from Chicago, IL to Tacoma, WA, this guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Let's delve into what makes each city unique and how these factors may influence your moving decision.
Chicago, IL- High crime rate
- Cold winters
- Higher living cost
- Heavy traffic
Tacoma, WA- Lower crime rate
- Milder climate
- More affordable
- Less congestion
Tacoma, WA- Quieter nightlife
- Less diversity
- Smaller arts scene
- More car dependency
Chicago, IL- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse cuisine
- Richer arts scene
- Better public transport
While Chicago boasts a vibrant nightlife with iconic venues like The Violet Hour and diverse culinary delights, including famous deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's, Tacoma, WA, offers a different but equally enriching lifestyle. Tacoma's milder climate allows for year-round enjoyment of outdoor activities, with Point Defiance Park offering expansive trails and waterfront views. The city also has a budding arts scene centered around the Tacoma Art Museum and the Museum of Glass, providing cultural enrichment without the overwhelming pace of a larger city. This relocation could mean trading some aspects of urban living for a more balanced, affordable lifestyle surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Chicago vs. Tacoma Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago, IL & Tacoma, WA. Understanding the nuances of local cuisine is vital as food plays a crucial role in the cultural and daily life of a city. By comparing these two locations, readers can gain insights into the food scene they're moving into, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable.
| Chicago | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | Dungeness Crab |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef Sandwich | Salmon |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-style Hot Dog | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Vegan Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In both Chicago and Tacoma, the local cuisine represents a mix of traditional flavors and innovative creations. In Chicago, neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and the West Loop are hotspots for food enthusiasts seeking the ultimate deep dish pizza experience or innovative dishes at restaurants like Alinea. Meanwhile, Tacoma's Ruston Way waterfront offers fresh seafood delicacies like dungeness crab and salmon, showcasing the city's strong connection to its natural surroundings. Both cities cater to a diverse palette including vegan options, with Tacoma particularly noted for its vegan pho available in various eateries around the city. Such differences in dining experiences reflect the unique cultural and geographical influences that shape each city's food scene.
Chicago vs. Tacoma Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison between Chicago, IL, and Tacoma, WA , will help you find your next favorite spots, using familiar flavors from back home as a guide. Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual eats, or something uniquely local, this guide has you covered.
| Chicago | Tacoma | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Over The Moon Cafe | Intimate, upscale dining reminiscent of Alinea's attention to detail and flavor. |
| Portillo's | Frisko Freeze | A local favorite for fast, delicious burgers and shakes, sharing that iconic status with Chicago's own Portillo's. |
| Girl & The Goat | Indochine Asian Dining Lounge | Offers a fusion dining experience similar to Girl & The Goat's innovative dishes. |
| Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | The Cloverleaf | Serving deep-dish pizza that rivals the Chicago-style pies of Lou Malnati’s. |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Duke's Seafood | Known for its superb seafood and steak, echoing the quality of Joe's in Chicago. |
| The Purple Pig | Boathouse 19 | Casual dining with a flair for eclectic and delicious plates, similar to The Purple Pig's offerings. |
| Roister | En Rama | Matches Roister's innovative and cozy vibe with a creative cocktail menu and exquisite small plates. |
| RPM Italian | Mio Sushi | Offers a high-end dining experience with a focus on exquisite flavors, akin to RPM Italian's niche. |
| Pequod's Pizza | Farrelli's Wood Fire Pizza | Known for their delicious, crispy crust that competes with the legendary Chicago pan pizza. |
| Smoque BBQ | Texas BBQ | For a taste of authentic, smoked meats that give Smoque BBQ a run for its money. |
In your culinary explorations from Chicago to Tacoma, you'll discover that although the settings might have changed, the essence of great dining remains constant. At Over The Moon Cafe, you'll find an intimate ambiance akin to Alinea, with a focus on meticulous preparation and presentation. For those craving the deep, rich taste of Chicago-style pizza, The Cloverleaf offers a slice of home with its hearty deep-dish options, proving that great pizza isn't confined to the Windy City's borders. Meanwhile, seafood enthusiasts will relish in Duke's Seafood's offerings, where the freshness and quality of ingredients parallel the exceptional dining experience at Joe's Seafood in Chicago. Through these culinary parallels, making Tacoma feel like home has never been easier or more delicious.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Tacoma Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is crucial in the moving process, demanding a close comparison of options. Here, we present a detailed look at how Chicago, IL and Tacoma, WA stand up against each other in terms of housing attributes such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle scores. Knowing these differences can significantly impact your relocation decisions.
| Comparison | Chicago | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Chicago Bungalow, Greystone | Craftsman, Tudor Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, proximity to public transit | Puget Sound views, outdoor recreational opportunities |
In-depth, Tacoma, WA, showcases a higher median home price than Chicago, IL, reflecting its growing market and desirability, particularly for those attracted to scenic views and outdoor activities, a notable feature in Tacoma's real estate listings. On the other hand, Chicago appeals with its iconic architecture like the Chicago Bungalow and Greystone, and a highly rated urban lifestyle thanks to its vibrancy and extensive public transportation network. While Chicago might offer better walkability and bikeability, making it more urban-centric, Tacoma's appeal lies in its proximity to natural landscapes and a calmer environment, highlighting the contrast in living experiences between the two cities.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Tacoma, WA
1. North End: With its sprawling Ruston Way Waterfront and multiple dog-friendly parks, North End offers you and your pet ample green space and scenic walks along Commencement Bay.
2. Proctor District: The walkable neighborhood vibe of the Proctor District is enhanced by its pet-friendly businesses and the nearby Point Defiance Park, offering endless outdoor adventures for you and your furry friend.
3. Stadium District: Known for its historic charm, the Stadium District features pet-friendly cafes and easy access to Wright Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners who enjoy urban living with a touch of nature.
Chicago vs. Tacoma Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Chicago, IL to Tacoma, WA, understanding how the weather conditions will change is vital for a smooth transition. This comparison will help you adapt to your new environment by highlighting key climatic differences.
Chicago, IL
Tacoma, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Tacoma, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Tacoma, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Tacoma, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While transitioning from Chicago to Tacoma, you'll notice a milder climate overall in Tacoma, with less extreme winter lows and cooler summer highs. However, Tacoma receives fewer days of sunshine annually, which might take some getting used to. Although both cities have a moderate UV index, rain is more common in Tacoma, contributing to its higher humidity levels. Notably, the types of natural disasters differ between the two locations, with Tacoma being more prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity. The change in air quality to 'Good' in Tacoma could be a positive shift for your health, particularly for those sensitive to pollution.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Tacoma
If you're considering a move, understanding the financial landscape of your new city is crucial. Comparing Chicago, IL and Tacoma, WA in terms of money and finance will help you gauge how your cost of living and overall financial health may shift.
| Comparison | Chicago | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $77,141 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 109.5 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.1 | 1.2 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 10.2 |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology | Manufacturing, Services, Wholesale and Retail Trade |
| Affluence | Varied | Modest |
| Poverty | Notable | Lower than national average |
| Homelessness | Concerning | Increasing |
When you look at these cities side by side, it's clear that each has its unique financial landscape. Chicago presents a more affordable cost of living compared to Tacoma, despite having a slightly lower average household income. This might be offset by Washington's lack of state income tax, providing a financial breather for Tacoma residents. Property taxes are notably higher in Chicago which could impact long-term homeownership costs. Meanwhile, Tacoma's economy is bolstered by a diverse mix of manufacturing, services, and trade. It's essential to consider these nuanced differences as they'll play a significant role in your daily expenses and overall financial well-being after your move.
Chicago vs. Tacoma Political & Religious Comparison
Moving to a new city often brings about a wave of new interactions and experiences, largely shaped by the community you'll be joining. For those contemplating a move from Chicago, IL, to Tacoma, WA, having a comparison of the politics and religion between Chicago & Tacoma can provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of what to expect from your potential new neighbors.
| Chicago | Tacoma | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Lean Democratic |
| Local Politics | Diverse range of elected officials | Progressive tendencies in local government |
| Religion | Multifaceted landscape | Diverse interfaith community |
In comparing the two cities, you'll find that both lean towards Democratic values politically, with Chicago having a long-standing reputation for its Democratic stronghold, and Tacoma showing progressive tendencies in its local government. While both cities boast a diverse interfaith community, Tacoma, in particular, is known for its forward-thinking approach to religious coexistence, with organizations like the Interfaith Association of Tacoma. This contributes to a welcoming environment for new residents regardless of their beliefs. Understanding this dynamic can be crucial in helping you acclimate to your new city.
Chicago vs. Tacoma Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chicago to Tacoma? It's key to understand the day-to-day differences you'll encounter, especially when it comes to a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Tacoma . This guide helps you better understand what your daily commute and traffic will be like, so you can plan accordingly.
| Comparison | Chicago | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | More challenging |
In both cities, how you get around on a daily basis can vastly affect your lifestyle, but there are notable differences. Chicago's well-developed public transit system includes the CTA, Metra, and buses, making it easier to live without a car. Tacoma, while having its options like the Sound Transit and Pierce Transit, presents more challenges to those hoping to rely solely on public transportation, partly due to lesser coverage and frequency. Traffic congestion is also less of an issue in Tacoma compared to Chicago, reflecting a possibly quicker and less stressful commute. Understanding these differences can help in adjusting your expectations and planning for a smoother transition.
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