Best Louisville to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Louisville to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 298 mile move from Kentucky to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 46 Louisville 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 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Louisville 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 Louisville 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 | UNITS of Kentucky | 8.94 | 9.13 | Active | Contact |
| 4 | Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving | 8.76 | 9.14 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Kentuckiana Moving, LLC | 8.64 | 9.1 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Louisville to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 298 miles from Louisville, KY to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,035 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Louisville to Chicago move is roughly $4,864. 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 | $1,371 | 300 ft³ | 4.57 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,035 | 450 ft³ | 4.52 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,354 | 750 ft³ | 4.47 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,864 | 1100 ft³ | 4.42 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,994 | 1600 ft³ | 4.37 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,779 | 1800 ft³ | 4.32 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Louisville guide.
Compare the 5 Best Louisville 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) |
UNITS of Kentucky
1841 Taylor Ave Building # 32
Louisville, KY, 40213
About UNITS of Kentucky
UNITS of Kentucky is a locally-owned and operated moving and portable storage company founded in 2004. The company offers convenient moving...
Services
- Storage
- Moving
- Moving & Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 439414 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2022) |
Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving
1861 Williamson Ct
Louisville, KY, 40223
About Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving
Your one-stop-shop moving company in Louisville, Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving serves local Kentucky and Southern Indiana residents and businesses with...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1834511 / 1460292 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2022) |
Kentuckiana Moving, LLC
This listing has been claimed by Kentuckiana Moving, LLC147 West Main Street
New Albany, IN, 47140
About Kentuckiana Moving, LLC
With headquarters in New Albany, Kentuckiana Moving serves customers in Louisville and across Southern Indiana. Offering short and long-distance and cross-country...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Local Home Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2933318 / 1080511 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2018) |
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.
Louisville vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be overwhelming, especially to a city unfamiliar to you. This guide aims to ease that transition by comparing Louisville, KY & Chicago, IL neighborhoods , helping to find a new area that feels like home. We've matched top Louisville neighborhoods with their Chicago counterparts based on vibe, amenities, and community feel.
| Louisville | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| The Highlands | Wicker Park | vibrant, artistic community |
| Nulu (East Market District) | West Loop | trendy restaurants and boutiques |
| Old Louisville | Gold Coast | historic homes, leafy streets |
| Crescent Hill | Lakeview | family-friendly, diverse restaurants |
| Clifton | Andersonville | unique shops, progressive vibe |
| Germantown | Logan Square | blend of old and new, craft beer scene |
| St. Matthews | Lincoln Park | upscale, with large malls and parks |
| Butchertown | Fulton Market | historic industrial roots, dining |
| Middletown | Roscoe Village | quiet, family-friendly atmosphere |
| Anchorage | Ravenswood | suburban feel, spacious homes |
Exploring neighborhoods like Wicker Park and West Loop in Chicago can remind Louisville transplants of the vibrant arts scene and trendy eateries they loved in The Highlands and Nulu. Wicker Park, known for its bustling nightlife and innovative art galleries such as The Flat Iron Arts Building, mirrors The Highlands' eclectic ambiance. Meanwhile, the West Loop's acclaimed restaurant row, with standouts like Girl & the Goat, offers a taste of Nulu's dynamic food scene. Gold Coast and Old Louisville share strikingly similar architectural wonders, providing a backdrop of historic homes and manicured parks perfect for leisurely strolls. In essence, moving from Louisville to Chicago doesn't have to mean leaving the comforts of home behind; it's about discovering a new city through the familiar lens of your old neighborhood.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Louisville to Chicago
Moving from one city to another brings a mix of emotions and practical considerations. This guide aims to give you a balanced view of relocating from Louisville, KY to Chicago, IL, helping you weigh the advantages against the challenges. By examining the pros and cons, we hope to offer an honest reflection of what this transition entails.
Louisville, KY- Smaller city vibe
- Fewer job opportunities
- Lower cost of living
- More personal space
- Less traffic congestion
Chicago, IL- Larger city feel
- More job opportunities
- Higher cost of living
- Denser population
- More public transit options
Chicago, IL- Loss of intimacy
- Expensive living
- Heavy traffic
- Anonymity in crowds
- More pollution
Louisville, KY- Smaller city charm
- Lower living costs
- Easy traffic
- Close-knit community
- Less pollution
Although moving from Louisville to Chicago means adapting to a busier lifestyle and higher living expenses, it also opens up a plethora of new opportunities. Chicago's vibrant job market, especially in industries like finance, technology, and healthcare, presents a significant advantage for career growth. The city’s rich cultural scene, from the iconic Millennium Park to the historic neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, offers residents an array of activities. With world-renowned restaurants like Alinea and cultural institutions such as the Art Institute of Chicago, life in Chicago is never dull. Moreover, the extensive public transit system, including the 'L' train, makes commuting more manageable despite the traffic. Whether you’re exploring the vast green spaces of Grant Park or enjoying the lively atmosphere of Navy Pier, Chicago offers a dynamic urban living experience that’s hard to match.
Louisville vs. Chicago Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Louisville & Chicago to help you understand the importance of food culture in your new city. Knowing the local food scene is vital for immersing yourself fully into life there.
| Louisville | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Hot Brown | Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Bourbon-glazed Pork | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Beer Cheese | Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan BBQ | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving from Louisville to Chicago, you'll transition from the comfort of Kentucky's bourbon-infused cuisine to the bustling, diverse flavors of one of the world's renowned food capitals. In Louisville, you might have delighted in a Hot Brown from The Brown Hotel for brunch, but in Chicago, the deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati's Pizzeria will become a staple. The Windy City's vibrant neighborhoods, like West Loop and Logan Square, feature some of the most innovative and acclaimed restaurants in the country, such as Alinea. The foodie scene there is a dynamic blend of high-end dining, international cuisines, and incredible street food, like the iconic Chicago hot dog, ensuring your taste buds will never grow weary.
Louisville vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Making an area feel like home often boils down to finding the right places to eat. This restaurant comparison chart aims to ease the transition for those moving, comparing top restaurants in Louisville to their equivalents in Chicago . Whether you're seeking a high-end dining experience or a casual bite, this guide will help you discover your new favorite spots, using your beloved Louisville eateries as a benchmark.
| Louisville | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| 610 Magnolia | Alinea | Both offer a unique, high-end dining experience with pre-fixed menus. |
| Jack Fry's | Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | Iconic spots for steak lovers with a rich history. |
| Mayan Cafe | Frontera Grill | Both focus on ethnic cuisines with a commitment to quality ingredients. |
| Grind Burger Kitchen | Au Cheval | Famed for their burgers, both spots offer a casual yet unforgettable meal. |
| Proof on Main | The Purple Pig | Unique, innovative dishes in a chic, artsy environment. |
| Seviche | Carnivale | Vibrant atmospheres serving up Latin-inspired dishes. |
| Doc Crow's | Smoque BBQ | Both are known for their hearty portions of smoked meats and Southern sides. |
| Butchertown Grocery | Girl & The Goat | Both offer eclectic menus crafted by renowned chefs, ideal for foodies. |
| MilkWood | Publican | Focusing on pork and beer, both restaurants provide a unique dining experience. |
| Feast BBQ | Green Street Smoked Meats | For those who crave BBQ, these places serve up some of the best smoked dishes. |
When you move from Louisville to Chicago, you'll find that your culinary adventures can continue seamlessly. For instance, Alinea in Chicago offers an unparalleled dining experience reminiscent of 610 Magnolia's intimate and creative atmosphere, making it a perfect high-end dining destination for those special occasions. If you're in search of a more laid-back environment with equally impressive fare, the transition from Grind Burger Kitchen to Au Cheval will surely satisfy your burger cravings. Both establishments are recognized for their high-quality ingredients and innovative approaches to the classic American burger. Whether exploring the eclectic menus of Butchertown Grocery and Girl & The Goat or savoring the smoked delights at Smoque BBQ and Doc Crow's, your palate can easily transition from the flavors of Louisville to the vibrant taste scene of Chicago.
Ready to start your move?
Louisville vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is an essential factor to consider when planning your move. Understanding how the housing options compare between Louisville and Chicago is vital to making an informed decision. This comparison will help you gauge the cost, architecture, and lifestyle of these two cities.
| Comparison | Louisville | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Cape Cod | Modern, Greystone |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, Garages | Nearby public transit, High-rise views |
When comparing Louisville and Chicago, you'll notice a tangible difference in living styles and costs. In Chicago, high-rise views and access to public transit are highly valued, reflecting the city's denser urban lifestyle and higher walkability and bikeability scores. On the other hand, Louisville’s real estate market emphasizes properties with large yards and garages, catering to those looking for a more suburban feel. The median home price and rent in Chicago are significantly higher than in Louisville, indicating a more expensive cost of living. However, Chicago's modern and greystone architecture, coupled with its vibrant urban lifestyle, presents a distinct living experience compared to Louisville's colonial and cape cod style homes.
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.
Louisville vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Louisville, KY to Chicago, IL, understanding how the weather contrasts can help you adjust more comfortably to your new surroundings. Comparing climate conditions offers insight into what clothing, activities, and home preparations might be necessary for your relocation.
Louisville, KY
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Louisville, KY
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Louisville, KY
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Louisville, KY
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Louisville | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| Natural Disasters | Floods, Tornadoes | Snowstorms, Cold waves |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Louisville to Chicago, you'll find both cities experience four distinct seasons, but Chicago's winters are significantly colder, with average lows dipping to 18°F and annual snowfall reaching three times that of Louisville. This prompts a need for warmer clothing and possibly different transportation considerations during the snowy months. Although both cities enjoy around the same number of sunny days, Chicago's higher humidity in summer and colder winter temperatures might require adapting your outdoor activities and home heating or cooling strategies. Additionally, while both cities have moderate air quality, Chicago faces periods where the air quality can become unhealthy for sensitive groups, suggesting you may want to monitor local air quality reports more closely after your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Louisville to Chicago
When considering a move from one area to another, comparing the financial landscape is crucial. This comparison will help you understand the differences in cost of living, taxation, and income between Louisville and Chicago , offering a clearer picture of what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Louisville | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $57,182 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.7 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.83 | 2.10 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Logistics, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Finance, Technology, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
While Louisville presents a more affordable cost of living indexed at 90 out of 100, moving to Chicago means preparing for a higher cost of living, indexed at 106. This increase is evident in the average household income, which is significantly higher in Chicago at $68,000 compared to Louisville's $59,000. Moreover, Chicago's notably higher property and sales taxes reflect the city's economic climate. However, Chicago's vibrant economy is powered by leading industries such as Finance, Technology, and Healthcare, offering a range of employment opportunities that could justify the higher cost of living for many. Understanding these financial nuances will guide your budgeting and lifestyle choices in your new city.
Louisville vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
In taking a step from Louisville, KY to Chicago, IL, it's insightful to glance at the comparison of the politics between Louisville & Chicago , alongside the religious landscape of where you're leaving and where you're heading. This quick overview aims to provide a snapshot of the political leanings and religious makeup of both cities, offering a peek into the community you'll be joining or leaving behind.
| Louisville | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Mixed urban-suburban dynamics | Focused urban governance |
| Religion | Diverse, with a significant Christian majority | Diverse, but more secular-leaning |
When moving from Louisville to Chicago, you'll transition from a city that leans Democratic to one that is a stronghold for Democratic politics. This political landscape influences local governance styles; Louisville's mixed urban-suburban dynamic contrasts with Chicago's focused urban governance, shaping the implementation of policies and city development. Religion in Louisville is varied, with a strong Christian presence, while Chicago's religious scene is also diverse but tends towards a more secular viewpoint. This brief insight into the political and religious frameworks of both cities can help you gauge the cultural shift you might experience.
Louisville vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
In this comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Louisville & Chicago, we aim to offer insight into what your daily commute might look like and how the general transportation landscape differs between these two cities. This guide will help you better understand the nuances of driving and transiting, making your transition smoother.
| Comparison | Louisville | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Difficult | Easier |
Moving from Louisville to Chicago, you'll discover profound differences in both cities' transportation realities. Louisville presents a less congested backdrop with an average commute time of approximately 23 minutes, making car travel relatively smoother. However, public transportation options are limited, making it challenging to get by without a car. On the other hand, Chicago's robust public transit system, scored significantly higher in availability, enables a more feasible life without personal vehicle dependency, despite its higher traffic congestion level. This shift opens up a plethora of opportunities to explore the city's rich neighborhoods and iconic locations easily via transit routes.
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