Best Cary to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Cary to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 821 mile move from North Carolina to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 51 Cary 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 Raleigh Moving Company), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Cary 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 Cary to Chicago Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Cary to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 821 miles from Cary, NC to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,479 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Cary to Chicago move is roughly $5,951. 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 | $1,668 | 300 ft³ | 5.56 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,479 | 450 ft³ | 5.51 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,095 | 750 ft³ | 5.46 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,951 | 1100 ft³ | 5.41 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,576 | 1600 ft³ | 5.36 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,558 | 1800 ft³ | 5.31 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Cary guide.
Compare the 5 Best Cary to Chicago Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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) |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Capital Moving & Storage
3450 Bush St Suite 245
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3623752 / 1238777 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,504 (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.
Cary vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be a daunting task, especially when relocating to a completely different city. To ease this transition, we've drawn parallels between Cary, NC, and Chicago, IL, allowing you to compare local neighborhoods . By matching up popular neighborhoods in Cary with their most similar counterparts in Chicago, this guide helps you navigate through your new city, making it feel a little more like home.
| Cary | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Preston | Lincoln Park | Green spaces, family-friendly |
| Amberly | Roscoe Village | Community-oriented, quiet |
| Carpenter Village | Andersonville | Diverse community, rich history |
| Lochmere | Wicker Park | Vibrant nightlife, arts scene |
| Highcroft | Old Town | Charming, historic architecture |
| Green Level | Hyde Park | Cultural institutions, academic presence |
| Wellsley | Ravenswood | Residential, craft breweries |
| Windermere | Lakeview | Proximity to water, bustling atmosphere |
| MacGregor Downs | Bucktown | Upscale casual, trend-setting |
| Stone Creek Village | Logan Square | Booming dining scene, historic boulevards |
If the green, sprawling spaces of Preston drew you to Cary, you'll find Lincoln Park's vast parks, such as the namesake Lincoln Park itself, and family-friendly atmosphere equally inviting. Similarly, Carpenter Village's diverse community and rich heritage mirror Andersonville's multicultural vibe, punctuated by unique eateries like Hopleaf Bar. For those who enjoy a vibrant nightlife and an artsy scene, Wicker Park stands in for Lochmere, offering spots like the Dove's Luncheonette for a cool dining experience amidst a dynamic cultural backdrop. Whether you're moving for the academic scene found in Cary's Green Level, which resembles Hyde Park's rich educational and cultural offerings including the University of Chicago, or the historic charm seen in Cary's Highcroft mirrored in Old Town's picturesque streets, Chicago's neighborhoods offer a familiar yet distinct charm to make your transition as smooth as possible.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Cary to Chicago
Moving from one city to another offers a unique opportunity to experience the contrasts and benefits of each locale. This guide aims to compare moving from Cary, NC to Chicago, IL , highlighting both the pros and cons to provide an honest reflection of what this relocation entails. By examining these differences, you can make a well-informed decision about your move.
Cary, NC- Smaller city vibe
- Less public transit
- Warmer winters
- Fewer cultural venues
Chicago, IL- Larger city energy
- Extensive public transit
- Seasonal weather
- Rich cultural scene
Chicago, IL- Noisier city environment
- Higher crime rates
- Less accessible greenery
- Variable air quality
Cary, NC- Quiet, suburban feel
- Lower crime rates
- More green spaces
- Better air quality
When considering a move from Cary, NC to Chicago, IL, you're transitioning from a quiet, suburban setting to a bustling urban environment. While Cary offers a peaceful atmosphere with ample green spaces, like the popular Fred G. Bond Metro Park, Chicago beckons with its vibrant cultural scene, from the iconic Art Institute of Chicago to lively music venues like the City Winery. You might miss Cary's lower crime rates and cleaner air, but Chicago's extensive public transit system and seasonal weather provide a different set of advantages. Moreover, Chicago's myriad of restaurants, sights, and activities ensure there's always something new to explore.
Cary vs. Chicago Food Guide
Food is a vibrant part of local culture and gives you a taste of what life is like in a new area. This guide offers a direct comparison of the local cuisine between Cary & Chicago to help you get a flavor of the culinary scenes you're moving into.
| Cary | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | North Carolina BBQ | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Polish Sausage |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan BBQ Sandwich | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Cary, the local barbecue scene defines much of its culinary identity, with a special focus on the revered North Carolina BBQ, particularly in areas like downtown and beyond. Chicago, renowned for its deep-dish pizza, offers this and more in neighborhoods such as the Loop and Lincoln Park. Yet, it's not just about staple dishes. Chicago's diverse foodie scene extends from traditional Italian Beef sandwiches found at Portillo's to innovative vegan options like Seitan Wings, reflecting the city's commitment to a broad culinary spectrum. Whether you're exploring Cary's cozy eateries or diving into Chicago's vibrant, bustling food scene, you'll discover flavors that are as distinctive as they are delightful.
Cary vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Settling into a new city means finding those special spots that feel like home. Food plays a crucial role in this transition, so comparing Cary, NC's top eateries with Chicago, IL's culinary scene can guide you to your next favorite dining destination. This comparison will make your move smoother by aligning your food preferences with what Chicago has to offer.
| Cary | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| La Farm Bakery | Floriole Cafe & Bakery | Both renowned for French-inspired baked goods. |
| Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen | Big Jones | Authentic Southern cuisine with a focus on sustainability. |
| CineBistro | Dinner and a Movie at the Davis Theater | High-end cinema dining experience. |
| Herons | Alinea | Both offer an upscale dining experience with innovative dishes. |
| Pizzeria Faulisi | Spacca Napoli | Both celebrate authentic Neapolitan pizza. |
| Sri Meenakshi Bhavan | Cumin | Both specialize in traditional and contemporary Indian cuisine. |
| Bosphorus | Reza's Restaurant | Offers a wide range of Middle Eastern specialties. |
| Taqueria del Sol | Big Star | Both known for their creative tacos and vibrant outdoor seating. |
| Kababish Cafe | Naansense | Both serve modern interpretations of classic Indian dishes. |
| Once in a Blue Moon Bakery | Sweet Mandy B's | Neighborhood charm with a wide variety of baked treats. |
Exploring the culinary landscape of Chicago through the lens of your Cary favorites offers not just a taste of nostalgia but an introduction to the expansive dining experiences awaiting in your new city. For example, La Farm Bakery's counterpart in Chicago, Floriole Cafe & Bakery, not only offers a comparable selection of French-inspired baked goods but also embodies a similar passion for craftsmanship and quality ingredients. Likewise, the transition from Herons to Alinea reflects a move towards even more creative and experiential dining, promising an unforgettable culinary journey. This comparison isn't just about finding a similar menu; it's about discovering a dining atmosphere that resonates with your tastes and preferences, making your new city feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
Cary vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, it's crucial to compare the key aspects of real estate between your current and potential new home. This comparison between Cary, NC, and Chicago, IL, focuses on housing costs, statistics, architecture, walkability, and lifestyle to give you a thorough understanding of what to expect.
| Comparison | Cary | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Traditional | Prairie and Contemporary |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Family-friendly, peaceful communities | Lake views, proximity to public transportation |
While Cary boasts modern and traditional homes with family-friendly communities, Chicago offers vibrant Prairie and Contemporary architecture alongside exciting urban lifestyle perks such as lake views and easy public transportation access. Although the median home price in Cary exceeds Chicago's, renting tends to be more affordable in Cary. Yet, Chicago wins hands down in terms of walkability and urban lifestyle, making it an attractive option for those seeking a dynamic city life. Recognizing these differences will help you refine your housing search based on your preferences for architecture, convenience, and lifestyle.
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.
Cary vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When moving from one place to another, it’s critical to understand how the weather will shift. This comparison focuses on displaying how the climates in Cary, NC, and Chicago, IL, differ, helping you prepare for your relocation. Knowing these differences ensures you're ready for your new environment.
Cary, NC
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Cary, NC
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Cary, NC
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Cary, NC
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Cary | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Floods | Blizzards, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Cary and Chicago enjoy a vibrant four-season climate, the winters in Chicago are notably colder and snowier compared to Cary. You'll experience less sunshine and more snowfall annually in Chicago, making winter gear a must-have. On the other hand, summers in both cities are relatively warm, though Cary has a slightly higher average humidity level which can make the heat feel more intense. It's also important to note the difference in natural disaster risks; Cary is more prone to hurricanes, while Chicago faces blizzards. Adjusting to these changes will be key to enjoying your new home to the fullest.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Cary to Chicago
When deciding to move from one place to another, getting a grasp on financial expectations is crucial. This comparison aims to streamline your understanding of how the cost of living, taxes, and average income compare when moving from Cary, NC to Chicago, IL , making your transition as smooth as possible.
| Comparison | Cary | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $123,857 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.85 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.86 | 2.10 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Education | Manufacturing, Finance, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Highly affluent | Moderately affluent |
| Poverty | Low | Higher |
| Homelessness | Minimal | Noticeable |
The financial differences between Cary, NC and Chicago, IL, are substantial in areas including average household income, cost of living, and taxes. For instance, you'll find Cary residents enjoy a higher average income which directly correlates to its higher cost of living index. However, lower state income taxes in NC might balance this out somewhat. On the other hand, despite a lower average household income in Chicago, its bigger economy offers diverse job opportunities, though this comes with higher sales and property taxes. Understanding these nuances ensures you make informed decisions about housing, savings, and lifestyle adjustments needed in your new city.
Cary vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Cary, NC, to Chicago, IL, it's beneficial to consider how the local communities differ on several key aspects. This comparison aims to provide a quick overview of the political and religious makeup between Cary & Chicago , offering insights into what you might expect in your new environment.
| Cary | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean conservative | Strongly liberal |
| Local Politics | Moderately engaged community | Highly engaged community |
| Religion | Mixed, with a significant Christian presence Cary Churches | Diverse, prominently Catholic but includes a wide array of faiths Archdiocese of Chicago |
While Cary has a more conservative leaning with its political makeup, Chicago is known for its strong liberal stance, reflecting in its highly engaged local politics. This could mark a significant shift in the public discourse and community initiatives you encounter. Furthermore, your religious and spiritual life might see a difference; Cary offers a mix with a considerable Christian influence, whereas Chicago boasts a broader diversity in faiths, prominently Catholic, complemented by a variety of other religious communities. This kaleidoscope of political and religious views in Chicago could offer a broader spectrum of cultural and community activities.
Cary vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Cary, NC to Chicago, IL presents a significant change in daily commute and traffic conditions. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Cary & Chicago will help you better understand what to expect in terms of daily commuting habits and the overall ease of getting around.
| Comparison | Cary | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
In Cary, NC, you might find yourself more dependent on a car with its lower public transit availability score of 3 out of 10, and an average commute time of about 25 minutes. The traffic congestion is relatively lower compared to Chicago, which scores a 7 out of 10 in traffic congestion but boasts a higher public transit availability score of 8 out of 10. Living in Chicago, you can more feasibly get by without owning a car due to its extensive public transit options, including buses and the 'L' train system, making it a more accessible city for daily commuting without a personal vehicle.
Additional Resources
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