Best Wichita to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Wichita to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 709 mile move from Kansas to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 39 Wichita 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 Wichita 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.

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Best Wichita to Chicago Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1606 Movers, Inc.9.369.27Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHGContact
3American Movers9.038.93Authorized For HHGContact
4It's Your Move8.468.48Authorized For HHGContact
5Titan Moving8.398.66Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Wichita to Chicago

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 709 miles from Wichita, KS to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,384 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Wichita to Chicago move is roughly $5,718. 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$1,604300 ft³5.35
1 Bedroom$2,384450 ft³5.30
2 Bedrooms$3,936750 ft³5.25
3 Bedrooms$5,7181100 ft³5.20
4 Bedrooms$8,2371600 ft³5.15
5+ Bedrooms$9,1771800 ft³5.10
*Please note: These Kansas to Illinois moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Kansas & Illinois. 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 KS to IL mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Wichita guide.

Compare the 5 Best Wichita to Chicago 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 10,649+ 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
American Movers Logo

American Movers

Superb9.03/10
based on 2,901+ data points

1324 S Handley St

Wichita, KS, 67213

About American Movers

American Movers has been in business since 2003 and has earned an A+ rating over the decades. The company is proud...

Services

  • Full-service pack and move
  • Help with large or treasured items
  • Residential and Commercial Storage Units

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1698749 / 946526

Authorized For HHG

Carrier/Shipper

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved82,100 (2023)
View Full Review
3
It's Your Move Logo

It's Your Move

Fabulous8.46/10
based on 139+ data points

1820 Felix Ave

Parsons, KS, 67357

About It's Your Move

It’s Your Move is one of the most honest and trustworthy moving companies in Parsons, KS. It has been helping people...

Services

  • Local Moves
  • Long-Distance Moves
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3084348 / 68462

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved24,000 (2024)
View Full Review
4
Titan Moving Logo

Titan Moving

Fabulous8.39/10
based on 1,458+ data points

2920 N Ridge Rd

Wichita, KS, 67205

About Titan Moving

Titan Moving is the premier Wichita moving company offering full-service moves. Locally owned and operated, Titan Moving offers affordable residential and...

Services

  • Local and Long Distance Moving Services
  • Competitive Pricing
  • Free Estimates

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2727872 / 924278

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved16,000 (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.

Wichita vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

Are you planning a move and looking for a touch of the familiar in a new city? This guide aims to ease your transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Wichita, KS & Chicago, IL. We’ve matched top Wichita neighborhoods with their Chicago counterparts to help you visualize where you might feel most at home. Discover where your Wichita favorites find echoes in the Windy City.

WichitaChicagoHow They're Similar
College HillRavenswoodFamily-friendly vibe, historic homes
RiversideLincoln ParkParks and cultural institutions
EastboroughGold CoastLuxurious, well-maintained estates
DelanoWicker ParkHip, artistic essence with vibrant nightlife
Rock IslandLogan SquareCreativity and trendy eateries
Old TownOld TownHistorically rich, lively main streets
Crown HeightsBeverlyTight-knit community, beautifully preserved homes
Sleepy HollowRoscoe VillageQuiet, quaint, and family-friendly
College HillAndersonvilleDiverse community, local businesses
Bel AireHyde ParkBlend of cultural diversity and intellectual vibe

Let's dive deeper into a few of these neighborhoods to discover what makes them sister communities across cities. College Hill’s community atmosphere and historic homes find a parallel in Chicago's Ravenswood, where families enjoy a blend of quiet, tree-lined streets and classic architecture, similar to Wichita's beloved neighborhood. Delano's artistic flair and array of craft breweries are mirrored in Wicker Park, boasting an eclectic mix of shops, trendy bars, and art galleries like The Violet Hour. Meanwhile, lovers of Wichita's Riverside, with its expansive parks and cultural offerings, will find solace in Lincoln Park in Chicago, home to the renowned Lincoln Park Zoo and abundant green spaces. Exploring these neighborhoods further, you'll find that each has unique landmarks and local favorites that contribute to their charm, welcoming newcomers with a taste of familiarity.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Wichita to Chicago

Moving from Wichita, KS to Chicago, IL involves weighing the good against the bad. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the benefits and drawbacks of this big move. From the peaceful, slower pace of Wichita to the bustling, vibrant energy of Chicago, understanding these aspects will help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Wichita, KS iconWichita, KS
  • Smaller job market
  • Fewer cultural venues
  • Limited public transit
  • Lower restaurant variety
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Larger job opportunities
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Extensive public transportation
  • Diverse culinary landscape
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic congestion
  • Smaller living spaces
  • More anonymity
Wichita, KS iconWichita, KS
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Spacious living
  • Close-knit communities

Upon arriving in Chicago, you'll quickly discover its vast cultural arena. Places like The Art Institute of Chicago offer world-renowned art collections, and the city's music scene, from blues to jazz at establishments like Jazz Showcase, is second to none. The culinary diversity is a food lover's dream, with neighborhoods like Little Italy and Chinatown offering authentic experiences. Furthermore, Chicago's public transit system, including the El train, allows for efficient exploration of the city's many neighborhoods, parks, and attractions. While the cost of living and space might be a hurdle, the quality of life and opportunities in Chicago are hard to match.

Wichita vs. Chicago Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Wichita & Chicago to help you get acquainted with the food scene of your new home. Understanding what each city has to offer in terms of local flavors and dining experiences is crucial, as food is an essential part of local culture and living.

WichitaChicago
Most iconic local food itemBeef brisketDeep-dish pizza
Most popular meat dishBBQ ribsItalian beef sandwich
Most popular street food itemFood truck tacosChicago-style hot dog
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit BBQSeitan wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Texas Roadhouse
  • The Spice Merchant
  • Il Vicino Wood Oven Pizza
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

While moving from Wichita to Chicago, you'll dive into a diverse food scene that caters to all tastes. In Chicago, neighborhoods like Logan Square and The West Loop are culinary hot spots where you can indulge in everything from avant-garde dining at Alinea to classic deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's. The city’s commitment to diverse cuisine is also visible in its abundance of food trucks, offering a taste of Chicago's street food scene, including the famed Chicago-style hot dog. Furthermore, Chicago's vegan scene is vibrant, with numerous restaurants dedicated to plant-based dining, ensuring that there's something for everyone.

Wichita vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

Understanding the pivotal role food plays in feeling at home in a new city, this chart is designed to bridge your move from Wichita, KS to Chicago, IL by comparing favorite eateries. It serves as a culinary compass pointing you towards your prospective favorite spots in Chicago, inspired by the beloved flavors of Wichita.

WichitaChicagoWhat You'll Love
George's French BistroMaude’s Liquor BarClassic French cuisine with a cozy vibe
Redrock Canyon GrillWildfireAmerican classics in a sophisticated yet comfortable setting
Doo-Dah DinerLittle Goat DinerElevated diner fare with a creative twist
NuWay CafePortillo's Hot DogsKnown for their iconic sandwiches and casual dining
P.F. Chang’sMingHin CuisineUpscale Chinese dining experience
Taqueria El PaisaBig StarPopular for its tacos and lively atmosphere
AVI Seabar & ChophouseGibsons Bar & SteakhouseRenowned for its steaks and elegant dining
Larkspur Bistro & BarThe Purple PigMediterranean-influenced dishes with a unique flair
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & SteakburgersShake ShackFast-casual chain known for burgers and frozen custard
Wichita Brewing Co & PizzeriaPiece Brewery and PizzeriaAward-winning brews and New Haven-style pizza

In your culinary journey from Wichita to Chicago, you'll find familiar comforts alongside exciting new flavors. For instance, George's French Bistro patrons will find a similar warm, inviting atmosphere and classic French dishes at Maude’s Liquor Bar. Those used to the casual yet unique dining experience of NuWay Cafe will enjoy the iconic Chicago-style hot dogs and casual vibes at Portillo's Hot Dogs. Meanwhile, lovers of artisan pizzas and crafted beers from Wichita Brewing Co & Pizzeria will appreciate the award-winning brews and distinctive New Haven-style pizza at Piece Brewery and Pizzeria. Each Chicago counterpart not only mirrors the essence of your Wichita favorites but also introduces you to the diverse culinary landscape that Chicago has to offer.

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Wichita vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to provide insights into the housing nuances of Wichita, KS, and Chicago, IL, helping you make an informed decision. From costs to lifestyle, see how these cities stack up against each other.

ComparisonWichitaChicago
Typical Architecture StyleRanchModern and Historic
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, quiet neighborhoodsLake views, proximity to public transit

Moving from Wichita to Chicago introduces dramatic changes in housing and lifestyle. In Chicago, the higher cost of living is balanced by rich urban experiences and greater walkability, exemplified by the city's efficient public transit system and iconic lake views often mentioned in real estate listings. While Wichita offers larger yards and a tranquil living environment, a trade-off is less access to the urban lifestyle and amenities found in Chicago. The shift in architecture from the predominantly Ranch-style homes in Wichita to Chicago's mixture of modern and historical buildings reflects the broader changes in lifestyle and environment you can expect with this move.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Wichita vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another means adapting to new weather patterns. Understanding how the climate in Wichita compares to Chicago can help you prepare for changes in temperature , sunshine , and seasonal conditions . This comparison aims to illustrate what differences in weather you can expect when relocating.

Summer icon
93/71

Wichita, KS

85/65

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
42/22

Wichita, KS

35/22

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
30

Wichita, KS

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
15

Wichita, KS

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonWichitaChicago
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersTornadoes, StormsBlizzards, Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Relocating from Wichita to Chicago, you'll notice a significant difference in winter temperatures and snowfall, making cold weather gear a necessity. Chicago experiences more snow, with an annual snowfall of 36 inches compared to Wichita's 15 inches. While both cities enjoy a fair number of sunny days, Wichita boasts about 220 days of sunshine annually, significantly more than Chicago's 189 days. Additionally, the higher humidity levels in Chicago might require some adjustments in terms of indoor air quality and comfort. Understanding these differences ensures you are well-prepared for your new home's climate.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving between cities involves many considerations, but understanding the financial aspects of relocating from Wichita to Chicago is crucial. This comparison will help you grasp the differences in cost of living, taxes, and economy, ensuring you make an informed decision.

ComparisonWichitaChicago
Avg. Household Income$56,293$66,576
Cost of Living Index91.8116.9
State Income Tax5.704.95
Avg. Property Tax1.402.10
Avg. Sales Tax8.5010.25
Top 3 IndustriesAerospace, Manufacturing, Health CareFinance, Technology, Manufacturing
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateNoticeable
HomelessnessLowModerate

The comparison reveals substantial differences in the cost of living and taxation between Wichita and Chicago. While the average household income is higher in Chicago, so are the costs associated with living there, including a higher cost of living index and sales tax rate. This suggests that while you might earn more in Chicago, a significant portion of your income may go towards managing these higher costs. Furthermore, Chicago's notable industries indicate a vibrant economy with diverse job opportunities, especially in finance and technology, contrasting with Wichita's focus on aerospace and manufacturing. Understanding these dynamics can help you prepare for the economic environment you'll be entering.

Wichita vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

In preparing for a move from Wichita, KS to Chicago, IL, it can be enlightening to understand how the cities compare on a socio-political level. This brief comparison will offer you a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of the residents from your current city to your future home.

WichitaChicago
Political Make-upConservative leanings, though some liberal areasStrongly liberal, Democratic stronghold
Local PoliticsMixed, with both Republican and Democratic representativesDominantly Democratic representatives
ReligionChristian dominance, with a variety of denominationsDiverse religious landscape, strong Catholic presence

While Wichita showcases a blend of political beliefs with a stronger conservative base, Chicago stands out as a beacon of liberal and Democratic values. This difference reflects not just in national elections but also in local governance and daily living. The religious landscape in Wichita heavily leans towards Christianity, with an emphasis on Protestant denominations, affecting cultural and community events. In contrast, Chicago's rich diversity is mirrored in its religious institutions, with a significant Catholic community alongside a vibrant mosaic of other faiths. This move will not only take you to a different city but also immerse you in a distinct cultural and political atmosphere.

Wichita vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Wichita, KS to Chicago, IL will significantly change your daily commute and traffic experiences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Wichita & Chicago is designed to help you adjust smoothly and plan your daily travels in your new city.

ComparisonWichitaChicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)1835
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

In Wichita, the average commute time is remarkably lower, making it a city where you can usually expect to get to your destination quickly. However, public transportation options are limited, making it difficult to get around without a personal vehicle. In contrast, Chicago offers extensive public transit services through the CTA, including buses and the "L" train system, widely covering the city and its suburbs. This makes living in Chicago without a car much more feasible. The higher traffic congestion in Chicago reflects its larger population and denser urban environment, but the effective public transit network efficiently alleviates these issues for many residents.

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