Best Grand Rapids to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Grand Rapids to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 180 mile move from Michigan to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 44 Grand Rapids 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 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids 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 | MASS Movers | 9.02 | 9.15 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.97 | 9.19 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Powell Relocation Group | 8.88 | 7.27 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Grand Rapids to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 180 miles from Grand Rapids, MI to Chicago, IL will cost on average $1,934 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Grand Rapids to Chicago move is roughly $4,618. 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 | $1,305 | 300 ft³ | 4.35 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,934 | 450 ft³ | 4.30 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,186 | 750 ft³ | 4.25 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,618 | 1100 ft³ | 4.20 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,637 | 1600 ft³ | 4.15 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,377 | 1800 ft³ | 4.10 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Grand Rapids guide.
Compare the 5 Best Grand Rapids 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) |
MASS Movers
Lansing, MI, 48910
About MASS Movers
MASS Movers is a leading moving company in Lansing, MI. Established in 2016, this family-owned and operated business specializes in creating...
Services
- Packing Service
- Large Item Moving
- Small to Medium Business Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3333210 / 1062576 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 32,500 (2024) |
Kingsley Moving Systems
610 Detroit St
Lansing, MI, 48912
About Kingsley Moving Systems
Kingsley Moving Systems is an experienced moving company located in Lansing, Michigan with over 20 years in the moving industry. Its...
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Interstate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1890987 / 682343 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 140,000 (2023) |
Powell Relocation Group
4937 Starr St SE
Grand Rapids, MI, 49546
About Powell Relocation Group
Powell Relocation Group, founded in 1962, is a globally recognized and multi-award-winning moving company that believes quality does not need to...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Services
- Corporate Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 261884 / 176235 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 53 |
| Registered Drivers | 50 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 900,000 (2021) |
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.
Grand Rapids vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
When considering a move from Grand Rapids, MI to Chicago, IL, it's essential to find a new neighborhood that feels like home. By comparing the local neighborhoods between Grand Rapids, MI & Chicago, IL , this guide aims to ease the transition by connecting you with communities that share similar vibes, amenities, and lifestyles. Let's explore where your next hometown might be.
| Grand Rapids | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Grand Rapids | Lincoln Park | Vibrant, family-friendly |
| Heritage Hill | Gold Coast | Historic, affluent |
| Midtown | Wicker Park | Hip, with a strong sense of community |
| Eastown | Logan Square | Eclectic, artsy |
| Alger Heights | Roscoe Village | Quiet, family-oriented |
| Fulton Heights | Andersonville | Diverse, with a charming commercial district |
| Roosevelt Park | Pilsen | Rich in cultural heritage |
| Belknap Lookout | Bucktown | Dynamic, with a mix of modern and historic homes |
| Ottawa Hills | Hyde Park | Prestigious, with a strong sense of community |
| Cherry Hill | Old Town | Charismatic, with a vibrant nightlife |
For those moving from Grand Rapids's East Grand Rapids to Chicago's Lincoln Park, expect a delightful transition. In Lincoln Park, you'll find an array of family-friendly amenities, similar to those in East Grand Rapids, but with the added bonus of proximity to iconic Chicago sights like the Lincoln Park Zoo and the expansive Lincoln Park Conservatory. The historic and affluent vibes of Heritage Hill find a counterpart in Chicago's Gold Coast, known for its stately homes and access to luxury shopping along the Magnificent Mile. Meanwhile, the eclectic and artsy spirit of Eastown is mirrored in Logan Square, where you can enjoy an abundance of unique dining experiences, from cozy cafés like Longman & Eagle to inventive cocktail bars. These comparisons not only highlight the architectural and cultural parallels but also underscore the seamless lifestyle transition one can anticipate when moving from Grand Rapids to Chicago.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Grand Rapids to Chicago
Moving from one city to another is a significant decision that encompasses both challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Grand Rapids, MI to Chicago, IL. By comparing the cons of leaving Grand Rapids against the pros of moving to Chicago, and vice versa, you'll gain a clearer perspective on what to expect from this transition.
Grand Rapids, MI- Smaller job market
- Less cultural events
- Lower diversity
- Less public transit
Chicago, IL- Larger job opportunities
- Rich cultural scene
- Greater diversity
- Extensive public transit
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- More crowded
- Less community feel
- Fewer green spaces
Grand Rapids, MI- Lower cost of living
- Less crowded
- Greater community feel
- More green spaces
The transition from Grand Rapids to Chicago offers a mix of exciting opportunities and challenges. In Chicago, you'll find a vibrant cultural scene with institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago and the historic theaters in the Loop, offering endless entertainment and enrichment options. Though the cost of living may be higher, the diverse dining scene, featuring renowned spots like Girl & the Goat in the West Loop, provides a culinary adventure that's hard to match. Despite missing the close-knit community feel and the expansive green spaces of Grand Rapids - like those found in Millennium Park and along the city's Lakefront Trail in Chicago - the adjustment comes with the promise of personal growth and broader horizons in one of the nation's most dynamic cities.
Grand Rapids vs. Chicago Food Guide
Understanding local cuisine is crucial in capturing the essence of a city's culture. This guide offers a detailed comparison of the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Chicago, aiding you in getting acclimated to the food scene in your new city.
| Grand Rapids | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Wet Burrito | Deep-dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Pork BBQ | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Beyond Meat Burger | 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 from Grand Rapids to Chicago, you’ll transition from the comfort of Midwest classics like wet burritos and BBQ pork to iconic Chicago staples such as deep-dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches. Chicago’s food scene is incredibly diverse, offering something for every palate, including a vegan-friendly version of its world-famous deep-dish pizza. Neighborhoods like Logan Square and the West Loop are foodie paradises, where establishments like Lou Malnati’s serve up that famous Chicago deep-dish, and Portillo's offers a taste of quintessential Chicago-style hot dogs. The city's rank in fitness and health conscientiousness alongside its higher score for vegan-friendly options reflects Chicago's broad embrace of various dietary preferences and lifestyles.
Grand Rapids vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a significant role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison is designed to ease your move from Grand Rapids to Chicago, guiding you to find new favorite eateries that mirror the cherished ones you've grown to love.
| Grand Rapids | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Sanzari's Kitchen | Alinea | Exquisite plating and flavors comparable in creativity |
| Two Scotts Barbecue | Smoke Daddy | Both offer authentic, slow-cooked barbecue meats |
| Marcona on Lyon | avec | Rustic, Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a cozy setting |
| Butcher's Union | Publican | Focus on meats, with a farm-to-table ethos matching in quality |
| Rose's Express | Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! | Similar approach to casual dining with European flair |
| Amore Trattoria Italiana | Sapori Trattoria | Authentic Italian dining with a focus on regional dishes |
| Madcap Coffee | Intelligentsia Coffee | Both are leaders in the third-wave coffee movement |
| Donkey Taqueria | Big Star | Offers a vibrant, modern take on Mexican street food |
| The Sovengard | Lost Lake | Both have a unique, eclectic vibe with a renowned cocktail program |
| Matchbox Diner & Drinks | Lou Mitchell's | Both are iconic diners offering timeless American breakfast and brunch |
When considering a comparison between Alinea in Chicago and Sanzari's Kitchen in Grand Rapids, both restaurants push the boundaries of culinary creativity, yet each maintains its regional charm and flair. While Smoke Daddy and Two Scotts Barbecue highlight how deeply satisfying and communal the experience of sharing a barbecue meal can be, regardless of the city you call home. For coffee aficionados moving from Grand Rapids, the transition from Madcap Coffee to Intelligentsia Coffee in Chicago is almost seamless, with both establishments being at the forefront of coffee innovation and culture. Each pairing not only represents a similarity in cuisine but also in the dining experience, ensuring you'll find the comfort of your old favorites in your new Chicago haunts.
Ready to start your move?
Grand Rapids vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, evaluating real estate is crucial. This comparison aims to shed light on the Grand Rapids and Chicago housing markets, focusing on cost, architecture, and lifestyle to inform your decision.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie Style, Ranch | Modern, Greystone |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to public transit, dynamic neighborhoods |
In deciding between Grand Rapids and Chicago, several factors stand out. Chicago's urban lifestyle score suggests a vibrant city life, enhanced by its high walkability and bikeability ratings, meaning daily errands do not necessarily require a car. On the other hand, Grand Rapids offers more affordable living, with lower median home prices and rent. The city's architecture leans towards the Prairie Style, reflecting its connection to nature and spacious living, in contrast to Chicago's dynamic blend of modern designs and historic Greystones. For those prioritizing proximity to public transportation and a bustling city atmosphere, Chicago might be the appealing choice. However, if you're seeking affordable housing and a quieter, more spacious environment, Grand Rapids could be the perfect fit.
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.
Grand Rapids vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Grand Rapids, MI to Chicago, IL, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This guide provides a detailed comparison of the climate and weather conditions you will experience. Knowing the differences between Grand Rapids and Chicago's weather patterns can help you prepare for your new environment.
Grand Rapids, MI
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Grand Rapids, MI
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In addition to the summarized weather comparisons, consider how differences in sunshine days and snowfall might affect daily life and seasonal activities. With Chicago seeing more sunny days per year than Grand Rapids, you might find winters less dreary and outdoor activities more enticing. Additionally, while both cities experience snowstorms and tornadoes, Grand Rapids receives significantly more annual snowfall, indicating a need for more robust winter preparation. Furthermore, even though air quality in both cities is generally acceptable, Chicago's moderate air quality could be a factor for those with respiratory sensitivities, especially during summer when pollution tends to be higher. Understanding these nuances is key to making a smooth transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Chicago
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison between Grand Rapids, MI and Chicago, IL focuses on money and finance, essential for estimating your future living expenses and economic lifestyle.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $59,596 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.7 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.58 | 2.12 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Education | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Reduced | Noticeable |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
When you move from Grand Rapids, MI, to Chicago, IL, you’ll notice a significant difference in the cost of living and taxes. Chicago's higher cost of living index and property tax rate can impact your finances, especially if you're buying a home. However, higher average sales tax in Chicago reflects the city's diverse economy, bolstered by leading industries in finance and technology. Despite these financial differences, each city presents unique opportunities and challenges that cater to a range of lifestyles and career ambitions.
Grand Rapids vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
The move from Grand Rapids, MI to Chicago, IL entails not just a physical relocation but also an immersive dive into diverse social fabrics. This comparison of the politics between Grand Rapids & Chicago provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious landscape, aiding in a smoother cultural transition.
| Grand Rapids | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Mixed, with a conservative lean | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Divided administration, with increasing progressive policies | Strong Democratic influence, progressive policies more prevalent |
| Religion | Diverse, with a notable Christian community | Highly diverse, major representation of all major religions |
When moving from Grand Rapids to Chicago, you'll find yourself transitioning from a city with a noticeable conservative lean to one that is predominantly liberal. This is not only reflected in the general political makeup but also in the administration and local politics where Chicago has a strong Democratic influence, manifesting in more progressive policies across various social issues. While both cities boast religious diversity, Chicago's extensive representation of all major religions in numerous houses of worship across the city reflects its vast mosaic of cultures and beliefs, offering something for everyone. This comparison can help ease the transition by setting clear expectations about the vibrant and dynamic environment you're about to become a part of.
Grand Rapids vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Chicago, IL, understanding the comparison of the traffic and transportation options is crucial for adapting to your new environment. This guide will help you grasp what to expect in terms of daily commutes, giving you insights into managing your time and transportation needs effectively.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 21.5 | 34.8 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possible, but challenging | Yes, easier |
An element worth noting is the average commute time: In Chicago, you can expect a noticeably longer commute than in Grand Rapids due to the greater distance and higher traffic congestion levels. However, Chicago's robust public transit system, including buses, trains, and subways, significantly offsets this inconvenience, making it feasible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. Conversely, while Grand Rapids offers less congestion and shorter commute times, its public transit system isn’t as developed, which might necessitate relying on a car more heavily than you would in Chicago.
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