Best Baltimore to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Baltimore to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 703 mile move from Maryland to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 67 Baltimore 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 Bookstore Movers), 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 Baltimore 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 Baltimore to Chicago Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bookstore Movers | 9.60 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Treasure Moving Company | 9.39 | 9.41 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Johnson Piano Moving | 9.38 | 9.44 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 4 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Baltimore to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 703 miles from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,379 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Baltimore to Chicago move is roughly $5,705. 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 | $1,601 | 300 ft³ | 5.34 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,379 | 450 ft³ | 5.29 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,928 | 750 ft³ | 5.24 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,705 | 1100 ft³ | 5.19 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,219 | 1600 ft³ | 5.14 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,156 | 1800 ft³ | 5.09 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Baltimore guide.
Compare the 5 Best Baltimore to Chicago Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Bookstore Movers
5200 46th Ave
Hyattsville, MD, 20781
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2005212 / 707471 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 21 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,245 (2019) |
Treasure Moving Company
11140 Rockville Pike # 300
Rockville, MD, 20852
About Treasure Moving Company
Carrying all of your worldly possessions to a new location is no small feat. Throw in the fact that you’re probably...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Residential Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2431129 / 847222 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 45,000 (2021) |
Johnson Piano Moving
14300 Cherry Lane Ct
Laurel, MD, 20707
About Johnson Piano Moving
Johnson Piano Moving is a specialist piano moving company based in Laurel, Maryland that has been operating since 1978. Over its...
Services
- Local & Long-Distance Piano Movers
- Piano Moving Local & Long-Distance
- Climate-Controlled Piano Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1849560 / 667776 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,000 (2022) |
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) |
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.
Baltimore vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to an unfamiliar city can be daunting, but comparing neighborhoods from your current city to your future home can ease the transition. This guide aims to compare the local neighborhoods between Baltimore, MD & Chicago, IL to help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home.
| Baltimore | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Fells Point | Wicker Park | Eclectic, vibrant nightlife |
| Federal Hill | Lincoln Park | Young professionals, close to parks |
| Mount Vernon | Gold Coast | Historic buildings, arts scene |
| Canton | Lakeview | Waterfront, relaxed atmosphere |
| Harbor East | River North | Upscale, trendy dining options |
| Hampden | Logan Square | Hipster vibe, creative community |
| Charles Village | Hyde Park | Diverse, university community |
| Locust Point | Bucktown | Quiet, family-friendly |
| Roland Park | Andersonville | Charming, small-town feel |
| Inner Harbor | Navy Pier | Tourist attractions, waterfront views |
Discovering the unique characteristics of Chicago's neighborhoods can make the Windy City feel more like your new home. For example, if you love the waterfront and relaxed atmosphere of Canton in Baltimore, you'll likely enjoy Lakeview in Chicago, which boasts a beautiful shoreline along with a bustling district of shops and cafes, such as Molly's Supper Club and The Coffee Studio. Or, if the creative community and hipster vibe of Hampden are more your style, Logan Square could be your ideal Chicago neighborhood, with its cool thrift stores, like Wolff's Flea Market, and vibrant indie coffee shops. This connection to local establishments, sights, and the unique culture each neighborhood offers can greatly contribute to feeling at home in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Baltimore to Chicago
Moving from one city to another offers a mix of experiences and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the transition from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL, highlighting the good and the challenging aspects to help you make an informed decision.
Baltimore, MD- Higher crime rates
- Smaller size
- Fewer job opportunities
- Less public transit
Chicago, IL- Larger cultural scene
- More diverse neighborhoods
- Broader job market
- Better public transit
Chicago, IL- Higher living costs
- Can feel overwhelming
- Far from other cities
- Harsher winters
Baltimore, MD- Lower cost of living
- Cozier community
- Close to DC
- Milder winters
Moving from Baltimore to Chicago introduces you to a rich tapestry of cultural experiences and diverse neighborhoods such as Lincoln Park and Andersonville, renowned for their vibrant community life, lush parks, and eclectic dining scenes like Alinea and Girl & The Goat. While Chicago’s winters might be harsher, the city compensates with a beautiful lakefront, extensive public transit options like the 'L' train, and a plethora of job opportunities in various industries. Navigating the higher cost of living is a challenge, but the vast array of museums, theaters, and historical sights such as the Art Institute of Chicago and Millennium Park provide enriching experiences that may well outweigh the cons.
Baltimore vs. Chicago Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Baltimore & Chicago, illustrating the diverse food scenes of each city. Understanding the local cuisine is crucial for immersing yourself into the culture and lifestyle of your new home. This comparison aims to inform you about what culinary delights await.
| Baltimore | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Crab Cake | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Pit Beef | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Chicken Box | Hot Dog (Chicago-style) |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Crab Cake | Vegan Deep Dish Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving to Chicago, you will find yourself immersed in a city with a robust and diverse culinary scene. Neighborhoods like Pilsen for Mexican cuisine, West Loop for cutting-edge dining experiences, and Logan Square for innovative vegan options showcase the variety of food available. Iconic spots such as Giordano's give you a taste of Chicago's famous deep-dish pizza, while Alinea offers a fine-dining experience that's recognized worldwide. The plethora of food trucks and vegan-friendly eateries across the city reflects Chicago's inclusive and health-conscious approach to food. Equipped with this knowledge, you're ready to explore the rich tapestry of flavors that make Chicago a gastronomic haven.
Baltimore vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can be a culinary adventure, especially when moving from one vibrant city to another. If you're transitioning from Baltimore to Chicago, food will play a significant role in making the Windy City feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to help you find your new favorite eateries in Chicago by using Baltimore favorites as a guide , ensuring a smooth and delicious transition.
| Baltimore | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Charleston | Alinea | High-end dining with innovative tasting menus |
| Woodberry Kitchen | Girl & The Goat | Rustic, farm-to-table fare |
| Thames Street Oyster House | GT Fish & Oyster | Expertly prepared seafood and oysters |
| Miss Shirley's Cafe | Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe | Renowned for brunch and American breakfast classics |
| Sotto Sopra | Sapori Trattoria | Cozy, authentic Italian dining |
| Joe Benny's | Spacca Napoli Pizzeria | Classic Neapolitan pizza in a casual setting |
| DiPasquale's Italian Marketplace | Eataly | Italian market with dining options, inspired by authentic Italian marketplaces |
| The Helmand | The Kabul House | Authentic Afghan cuisine with a similar homey feel |
| Matthew's Pizza | Pequod's Pizza | Deep-dish pizza with a cult following |
| Paulie Gee's | Robert's Pizza Company | Artisanal pizzas with creative toppings |
In exploring the culinary landscapes of Chicago, you'll discover that the city is ripe with establishments that resonate with the flavors and atmospheres you loved back in Baltimore. Alinea stands as Chicago's answer to Charleston's elegant dining experience, offering meticulously crafted tasting menus that push the boundaries of modern cuisine. If the farm-to-table charm and innovative dishes of Woodberry Kitchen are what you miss, Girl & The Goat in Chicago’s vibrant West Loop neighborhood will satisfy your cravings with its globally inspired plates and convivial atmosphere. Seafood lovers transitioning from Thames Street Oyster House will find solace in GT Fish & Oyster's refined approach to maritime dining, where the freshness of the sea is celebrated in every dish. Moving cities doesn’t mean giving up on the flavors you love; Chicago’s dynamic dining scene ensures you’ll find new favorites while honoring the memories of meals past.
Ready to start your move?
Baltimore vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison between Baltimore, MD and Chicago, IL highlights essential housing aspects to assist in your transition.
| Comparison | Baltimore | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Row Houses | Greystones |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Charming, Historic, Waterfront Views | Lake Views, Modern Amenities, Access to Public Transportation |
When comparing Baltimore to Chicago, you'll find different appeals in their housing markets. Baltimore's historic row houses offer a charming snapshot of the city's rich history, often found in neighborhoods with waterfront views. Meanwhile, Chicago's iconic greystones and modern high-rises provide panoramic lake views and are typically situated closer to robust public transportation options. Both cities offer vibrant urban lifestyles, but Chicago ranks higher in terms of walkability, bikeability, and overall urban lifestyle, making it an appealing choice for those seeking an active and convenient city life.
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.
Baltimore vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
Moving between cities requires a keen awareness of how life will change, including the weather. When transitioning from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL, understanding the differences in climate elements is crucial. This comparison highlights the key weather distinctions to prepare you for your new environment.
Baltimore, MD
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Baltimore, MD
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Baltimore, MD
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Baltimore, MD
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Baltimore | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Flooding | Snowstorms, Extreme Cold |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Considering the transition from Baltimore to Chicago, you will experience cooler temperatures, especially during winter where Chicago's averages are significantly lower. Chicago also has fewer days of sunshine annually, pointing to a cloudier climate. While both cities have their share of natural disasters, Chicago's harsh winters with more snow can be quite a shift from Baltimore's hurricane season. Understanding these differences can help you prepare for the seasonal changes in Chicago, from wardrobe adjustments to potential home heating considerations.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Baltimore to Chicago
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to compare the cost of living and financial aspects between Baltimore and Chicago . This comparison will provide a clearer insight into how your financial situation might transform and prepare you for the changes ahead.
| Comparison | Baltimore | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $54,652 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 119.4 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 5.75 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.248 | 2.125 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Tourism | Financial Services, Manufacturing, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | High | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Significant |
Transitioning from Baltimore to Chicago, you'll notice several financial contrasts that could impact your lifestyle. For starters, the average household income in Baltimore is higher. Despite this, Chicago's cost of living index stands at 100, suggesting expenses align closely with the national average, whereas Baltimore is beneath this threshold. State income taxes are slightly lower in Chicago, possibly offsetting other costs like the notably higher sales tax. Understanding the economic landscape, including the prevailing industries in each city, can also guide your employment opportunities. For instance, Chicago's tech and financial services sectors might offer different career paths compared to Baltimore's focus on healthcare and education.
Baltimore vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
When moving from Baltimore, MD to Chicago, IL, understanding the social fabric of your new city is crucial. This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Baltimore & Chicago , providing insight into the communities that shape these cities.
| Baltimore | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Heavily Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on urban development and crime reduction | Concerns over social equity and police reform |
| Religion | Broad religious landscape with Protestant and Catholic communities | Diverse spiritual community including Catholic, Islamic, and Jewish establishments |
Both Baltimore and Chicago share a strong Democratic leaning in their political makeup, reflecting in their voting patterns and urban policies. However, focusing on local issues reveals a nuanced distinction. Baltimore's local political scene often centers around urban development and tackling crime rates, striving to revitalize the city while ensuring safety for its residents. On the other hand, Chicago’s political landscape is marked by a vigorous debate on social equity and police reform, indicative of the city’s response to national discourse on these issues. Moreover, the religious landscape in both cities is rich and diverse, though Chicago boasts a more pronounced variety of religious communities, including prominent Catholic, Islamic, and Jewish establishments, each contributing to the city’s multifaceted cultural identity.
Baltimore vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Baltimore, MD, to Chicago, IL? Understanding the comparison between traffic and transportation options in these cities will help you better navigate your daily commute.
| Comparison | Baltimore | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 31 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | With some effort | Easier than in Baltimore |
In both cities, your daily commute and dealing with traffic will be a part of your routine. However, you'll find that public transportation in Chicago is generally more accessible and comprehensive, aiding in a slightly easier lifestyle without the need for a car compared to Baltimore. The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) offers various options in Baltimore, but Chicago's Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) has a more extensive network of buses and trains that thoroughly cover the city and its suburbs. This makes Chicago's slightly higher traffic congestion more manageable for those who prefer to avoid driving.
Additional Resources
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Popular Baltimore to Illinois Routes
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