Best Kansas City to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Kansas City to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 513 mile move from Kansas to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 53 Kansas City to Chicago 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 Kansas City compared to Chicago. 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 Kansas City to Chicago 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 | God's Movers, LLC | 9.06 | 9.29 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Golden Rule Relocation | 8.98 | 8.75 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Courtesy Movers LLC | 8.97 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Kansas City to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 513 miles from Kansas City, KS to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,217 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Kansas City to Chicago move is roughly $5,310. 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 | $1,493 | 300 ft³ | 4.98 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,217 | 450 ft³ | 4.93 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,658 | 750 ft³ | 4.88 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,310 | 1100 ft³ | 4.83 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,644 | 1600 ft³ | 4.78 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,510 | 1800 ft³ | 4.73 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Kansas City guide.
Compare the 5 Best Kansas City to Chicago 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) |
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) |
Courtesy Movers LLC
9353 NE 79th St
Kansas City, MO, 64158
About Courtesy Movers LLC
Courtesy Movers LLC is a client-oriented, Kansas City-based company that provides quality moving services at an affordable price. Its priority is...
Services
- Cheap Moving Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3241776 / 1018373 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |
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.
Kansas City vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, especially to an unknown city. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that helps you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings by comparing local neighborhoods between Kansas City, KS & Chicago, IL . By identifying similar neighborhoods in your destination city, you can find the comfort of the familiar in an entirely new environment.
| Kansas City | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rosedale | Logan Square | Vibrant art scene, craft breweries |
| Strawberry Hill | Pilsen | Rich cultural heritage, mural art |
| Armourdale | Bridgeport | Diverse community, working-class roots |
| Morningside | Hyde Park | Historical landmarks, educational institutions |
| Piper | Lincoln Square | Family-friendly, community atmosphere |
| Turner | Irving Park | Residential, green spaces |
| Wyandotte County Lake Park | Lincoln Park | Expansive parks, recreational activities |
| Riverview | Garfield Park | Historic, conservatory, cultural programs |
| Bethel Welborn | Roscoe Village | Quiet, community-focused |
| Stony Point | Beverly | Historic homes, family-oriented |
Exploring neighborhoods in Chicago that resemble those in Kansas City can provide comfort and familiarity in your new locale. For instance, the vibrant art scene and bustling craft breweries in Logan Square will remind you of Rosedale, epitomizing how urban environments cultivate creativity and community. Meanwhile, the historical landmarks and esteemed educational institutions in Hyde Park offer a reflective glimpse similar to Morningside's character, showcasing how history and modernity blend seamlessly. Residents moving from Wyandotte County Lake Park in Kansas City will find solace in Lincoln Park's expansive greenery and variety of recreational activities, proving that city life can indeed coexist with nature’s tranquility. Venturing into these neighborhoods allows you to explore cultural gems such as the Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago, akin to the community and cultural programs found in Riverview, Kansas City, highlighting the unique yet familiar characteristics that make each neighborhood special.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Kansas City to Chicago
Making the move from Kansas City, KS to Chicago, IL? Our comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of both the benefits and drawbacks of this relocation. By contrasting the cons of Kansas City, KS with the pros of moving to Chicago, IL and vice versa, you can make a well-informed decision that best suits your lifestyle preferences.
Kansas City, KS- Smaller job market
- Less diverse cuisine
- Fewer cultural institutions
- Limited public transit
Chicago, IL- Larger job opportunities
- World-class dining
- Rich cultural attractions
- Extensive public transit
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- Smaller living spaces
- More impersonal
- Heavier traffic
Kansas City, KS- Lower cost of living
- Spacious living areas
- Friendly community vibe
- Less traffic congestion
Moving to Chicago opens a world of opportunities, from landing a job at one of the many Fortune 500 companies headquartered here to enjoying a tantalizing meal at award-winning restaurants like Alinea. Relocating brings the chance to explore iconic cultural institutions such as The Art Institute of Chicago, or to mingle in vibrant neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Square, known for their unique shops and cozy cafes. However, it's worth noting that this upgrade in lifestyle comes with a cost. Living spaces tend to be smaller, and while you'll have more public transit options, Chicago's bustling nature means navigating through more traffic. Despite these contrasts, each city offers unique perks that cater to different preferences and needs.
Kansas City vs. Chicago Food Guide
Relocating offers a chance to immerse yourself in a new cultural and culinary landscape. A critical aspect of this immersion is the local cuisine, which deeply reflects the community's identity and lifestyle. To help you adapt and savor the flavors of your new home, we've crafted a comparison of the local cuisine between Kansas City & Chicago . This guide offers insights into both cities' food scenes, enabling you to anticipate the culinary adventures that await you.
| Kansas City | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Barbecue Ribs | Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Brisket | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Burnt Ends | Chicago-Style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit BBQ | Deep-Dish Vegan Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Kansas City, renowned for its barbecue, establishments like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que are must-visits where the smell of smoked meats fills the air, particularly noted for their ribs and brisket. On the other hand, Chicago boasts an iconic culinary landmark — the deep-dish pizza, with Lou Malnati's Pizzeria at the forefront, offering a rich and hearty take on this beloved dish. The vegan scene is vibrant in both cities, offering options like Jackfruit BBQ in Kansas City and Deep-Dish Vegan Pizza in Chicago, showboating the cities' capability to innovate within their culinary traditions while accommodating modern dietary trends. Whether you're traversing the historic streets of Chicago's River North or the bustling avenues of Kansas City's Westport, you're bound to encounter a diverse food scene that caters to all palates and preferences.
Kansas City vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making a place feel like home. This comparison of top restaurants from Kansas City, KS to Chicago, IL is designed to help you find your new go-to dining spots, using your favorites from Kansas City as a familiar guide.
| Kansas City | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que | Smoque BBQ | Similar dedication to smoked meats and a beloved local favorite |
| Bluestem | Alinea | Both offer an exquisite fine-dining experience with innovative dishes |
| La Bodega | Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! | Authentic Spanish tapas and a lively atmosphere for friends and family |
| Port Fonda | Big Star | A love for Mexican cuisine with a hip environment and quality ingredients |
| Q39 | Green Street Smoked Meats | Brisket that rivals any, in an industrial-chic setting |
| Rye | Girl & The Goat | Focus on American cuisine with a rustic, yet chic vibe |
| Town Topic Hamburgers | Au Cheval | Upscale diner choices and legendary burgers in a cozy location |
| Jarocho Pescados y Mariscos | Marisol | Seafood dishes that impress with creativity and fresh flavors |
| Novel Restaurant | avec | Both have an innovative menu that changes with seasonal availability |
| Grunauer | The Berghoff Restaurant | Classic, hearty German fare in an iconic, historic setting |
Moving from Kansas City to Chicago offers a vibrant landscape for food enthusiasts eager to explore new tastes that feel familiar. Smoque BBQ and Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que share a love for perfectly smoked meats, with both locales being integral parts of their respective communities. For those craving the intimate and pioneering spirit of fine dining, Alinea provides an experience that echoes the creativity found at Bluestem. On casual nights when the simplicity of a well-crafted burger is all you desire, the journey from Town Topic Hamburgers to Au Cheval will be a rewarding one, showcasing why both have earned accolades for their burgers. Finally, Rye and Girl & The Goat both celebrate the richness of American cuisine with their unique touches and comforting ambiances, making the transition from Kansas City to Chicago a flavorful adventure.
Ready to start your move?
Kansas City vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial aspect when planning a move, allowing for a comprehensive comparison between two cities. This guide highlights the differences in housing characteristics, costs, and lifestyles between Kansas City and Chicago , helping you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Kansas City | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Ranch | Modern, Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Quiet neighborhoods | Lake views, Access to public transit |
While Kansas City offers more affordable housing options with median home prices and rent significantly lower than in Chicago, the latter boasts a more urban lifestyle with better scores in walkability, bikeability, and an eclectic mix of modern and Victorian architecture. Chicago's higher cost of living is matched by its vibrant urban environment, ample access to public transit, and picturesque lake views, making it a hub for those seeking a dynamic city life. Conversely, Kansas City's appeal lies in its spacious yards and tranquil neighborhoods, appealing to those looking for a balance between urban convenience and suburban charm. Whether you're drawn to the bustling streets of Chicago or the laid-back ambiance of Kansas City, both cities offer unique real estate opportunities tailored to varying preferences and lifestyles.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL
1. Lincoln Park: With its sprawling namesake park, you'll find plenty of green spaces for walks and the Lincoln Park Dog Park where your furry friend can run off-leash.
2. Lakeview: Home to the popular Wiggly Field Dog Park, Lakeview offers an urban setting with a pet-friendly attitude, hosting numerous pet supply shops and pet-friendly patios.
3. Andersonville: This community-oriented neighborhood not only features pet-friendly dining and shopping but also events like the annual Andersonville Pet Parade, making it a delightful place for pet owners.
Kansas City vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Kansas City, KS to Chicago, IL, understanding how the weather varies is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust to your new environment by giving you an idea of what to expect in terms of temperature, humidity, and other weather-related factors.
Kansas City, KS
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Kansas City, KS
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Kansas City, KS
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Kansas City, KS
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Kansas City | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Severe Thunderstorms | Snowstorms, Cold Waves |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Kansas City to Chicago, you'll find Chicago a bit cooler, especially in winter, with more frequent and heavier snowfall. The number of sunny days per year also decreases, highlighting Chicago's cloudier disposition. However, both cities experience roughly the same level of humidity and share common top seasonal allergies such as pollen and mold. The difference in natural disasters is notable, with Kansas City being more prone to tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, whereas Chicago faces cold waves and snowstorms, affecting how you might prepare for emergencies.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Kansas City to Chicago
If you're moving from one location to another, comparing financial aspects is critical. Understanding the Kansas City, KS to Chicago, IL financial landscape will help prepare you for the change in cost of living, taxes, and income levels. This comparison aims to outline the key financial differences and similarities between two vibrant cities.
| Comparison | Kansas City | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $53,884 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 97.8 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 3.10 to 5.70 | 4.95 (flat rate) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.29 | 2.16 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.13 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health Care, Retail Trade | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Significant |
| Homelessness | Notable | Notable |
Moving from Kansas City, KS to Chicago, IL brings notable financial changes, foremost among them being the cost of living. While your income may stretch further in Kansas City, Chicago's vibrant economy, nonetheless, offers vast opportunities in finance, insurance, and manufacturing sectors. Despite the higher cost of living and property taxes in Chicago, the city's affluence level is high, signaling a productive environment for career growth and business development. Additionally, both cities face significant challenges with poverty and homelessness, highlighting the importance of community support and social services in urban areas.
Kansas City vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
Welcome to our quick guide aimed at offering you a glimpse into the political and religious landscapes of Kansas City, KS, and Chicago, IL. This comparison is designed to provide a swift yet comprehensive overview of the differences and similarities in the political and religious makeup of Kansas City & Chicago , helping you understand the community you're moving into.
| Kansas City | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Community Engagement | Active Local Governance |
| Religion | Mixed; Christian majority | Mixed; Christian majority with a larger diversity of faiths |
In transitioning from Kansas City to Chicago, one of the key distinctions you'll notice is in the political ambiance. Chicago's political scene is not only more intensively Democratic but also highly vibrant, with an active local government that encourages involvement from its residents. On the religious front, while both cities have a Christian majority, Chicago offers a broader spectrum of religious communities, reflecting its larger and more diverse population. This blend of political engagement and religious diversity in Chicago could offer a rich, new social environment for you to be a part of.
Kansas City vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Kansas City, KS, to Chicago, IL, requires understanding the distinct differences in their daily commute and traffic scenarios. This comparison aims to highlight the key aspects of traffic and transportation options between Kansas City & Chicago to better prepare you for your move.
| Comparison | Kansas City | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
When considering your move from Kansas City to Chicago, understanding the difference in commute times and traffic congestion is crucial. With Kansas City's average commute time being significantly shorter and less traffic congestion compared to Chicago, adapting to a more congested city might require some patience. However, Chicago's excellent public transit score highlights a robust system, including buses and the famous 'L' trains, which makes navigating the city without a car not only possible but often preferable. This is a stark contrast to Kansas City, where having a car is almost essential for getting around efficiently due to the limited public transit options.
Additional Resources
Kansas City Moving Services
Popular Kansas City to Illinois Routes
Popular Moving Resources
