Best Charlotte to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charlotte to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 755 mile move from North Carolina to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 58 Charlotte to Chicago moving companies and more than 20,000 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 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charlotte 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 Charlotte 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 | You Move Me Charlotte | 9.32 | 9.23 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Road Haugs Moving & Storage | 9.06 | 9.1 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Bulldog Moving LLC | 8.99 | 8.42 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charlotte to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 755 miles from Charlotte, NC to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,423 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charlotte to Chicago move is roughly $5,814. 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 | $1,631 | 300 ft³ | 5.44 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,423 | 450 ft³ | 5.39 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,001 | 750 ft³ | 5.34 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,814 | 1100 ft³ | 5.29 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,376 | 1600 ft³ | 5.24 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,333 | 1800 ft³ | 5.19 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Charlotte guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charlotte 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) |
You Move Me Charlotte
4222 Barringer Dr
Charlotte, NC, 28217
About You Move Me Charlotte
You Move Me is a franchised moving company that has locations all across North America, including Charlotte, NC. Serving the entire...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Piano moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2518689 / 878140 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2024) |
Road Haugs Moving & Storage
2700 Hutchison McDonald Rd Suite A
Charlotte, NC, 28269
About Road Haugs Moving & Storage
Road Haugs Moving & Storage is a Charlotte-based moving company that is second-generation family-owned and operated. Primarily executing local residential moves,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Specialty Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2535952 / 882889 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2022) |
Bulldog Moving LLC
Charlotte, NC, 28202
About Bulldog Moving LLC
Bulldog Moving LLC is a reputable moving service in Charlotte, North Carolina. The company provides a range of services including local...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long-Distance Moving Services
- Residential Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1670218 / 613925 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 29,677 (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.
Charlotte vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be a daunting experience, especially when you're not familiar with your new home. That's why we've created this guide to help you find your bearings through a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Charlotte, NC & Chicago, IL . By comparing your old stomping grounds in Charlotte to similar neighborhoods in Chicago, we aim to make your transition as seamless as possible.
| Charlotte | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Myers Park | Lincoln Park | Affluent, family-friendly areas |
| South End | Wicker Park | Vibrant nightlife and arts scene |
| Uptown | The Loop | Central business districts with attractions |
| Plaza Midwood | Logan Square | Eclectic and hip with diverse eateries |
| Dilworth | Old Town | Historic homes and local boutiques |
| NoDa | Andersonville | Artsy with a strong sense of community |
| Elizabeth | Gold Coast | Upscale, historic residences |
| Ballantyne | Lincoln Square | Quiet, family-oriented community |
| Midtown | Streeterville | Bustling with cultural amenities |
| University City | Hyde Park | Academic atmosphere with historic sites |
For those moving from Charlotte's prized Myers Park, with its serene avenues lined by majestic trees, to Chicago, Lincoln Park awaits with its own brand of elegance, surrounded by ample green space, like the actual Lincoln Park. The artistic vibrancy of NoDa that you've grown to love finds a mirror in Andersonville, where creativity flourishes on every block, and community spirit runs deep. And if you're missing the historic charm of Dilworth's bungalows and friendly front porches, Old Town in Chicago offers a similar warmth with its own storied homes and cobblestone streets. No matter where you find yourself, exploring local haunts like Pequod's Pizza in Lincoln Park for a slice of deep-dish or catching a show at The Lyric Opera near Streeterville, you're sure to discover the unique essence that makes each Chicago neighborhood feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charlotte to Chicago
Moving from one city to another brings a wealth of changes, impacting everything from your daily commute to your social life. In considering the move from Charlotte, NC to Chicago, IL, it’s crucial to weigh both the challenges and opportunities. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, through simple yet insightful charts comparing the cons and pros, and vice versa. Let these comparisons serve as a guide to what awaits in your potential new home.
Charlotte, NC- Warmer Climate
- Smaller Airport
- Lower Public Transit Use
- Lesser Job Opportunities in Tech
- Fewer Cultural Institutions
Chicago, IL- Seasonal Variety
- Larger Airport
- Extensive Public Transit
- Greater Job Opportunities in Tech
- More Cultural Institutions
Chicago, IL- Higher Cost of Living
- More Urban Density
- Higher Traffic Levels
- Larger City Size
- Less Personal Car Use
Charlotte, NC- Lower Cost of Living
- More Suburban Areas
- Lower Traffic Levels
- Smaller City Size
- More Personal Car Use
Before you decide to make the move from Charlotte to Chicago, it's worth diving deeper into what each city offers. Chicago's expanded public transit system—comprising the CTA, Metra, and Pace—provides an efficient way to travel across the city and suburbs, contrasting Charlotte's more car-dependent lifestyle. For culture enthusiasts and professionals in the tech industry, Chicago's bustling scene is unmatched with institutions like The Museum of Science and Industry, and a thriving tech startup ecosystem. Chicago's four distinct seasons promise a varied experience year-round, from enjoying the blossoms in Grant Park during spring to savoring the thriving restaurant scene, with establishments such as Girl & The Goat, offering culinary delights that cater to every palate. While the cost of living and urban density in Chicago may be higher than in Charlotte, the city's cultural, professional, and lifestyle offerings present compelling reasons for consideration.
Charlotte vs. Chicago Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Charlotte & Chicago, two vibrant cities with their own unique food scenes. Food is a significant part of local culture and understanding what it's like to live in an area. This comparison aims to inform you about the culinary landscape of your future home.
| Charlotte | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pulled Pork BBQ | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Carolina-style Ribs | Italian Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Pickles | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Vegan Deep Dish Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Charlotte and Chicago both offer distinct and diverse food scenes reflecting their cultural heritage and present culinary innovations. In Charlotte, the BBQ scene is king, with spots like Midwood Smokehouse showcasing the city's love for smoked meats. Fried pickles, a favorite street food, can often be found at food festivals and outdoor events. Conversely, Chicago's food scene is marked by its famous deep-dish pizza, which can be experienced at iconic establishments like Giordano's. The city's Italian beef sandwiches and Chicago-style hot dogs are must-tries for any meat lover. For vegans, both cities offer plenty of options, but Chicago's vegan deep dish pizza presents a unique twist on its classic dish, catering to a growing demand for plant-based alternatives.
Charlotte vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. This guide aims to ease your transition from Charlotte, NC, to Chicago, IL by comparing your favorite Charlotte eateries to their Chicago counterparts . Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual bites, or unique flavors, we've pinpointed places where you'll feel right at home in The Windy City.
| Charlotte | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| KiKi Bistro | avec | Warm, communal dining with a blend of Mediterranean and Midwestern influences. |
| Midwood Smokehouse | Smoque BBQ | Authentic, wood-smoked barbecue capturing the essence of Southern flavors. |
| Price's Chicken Coop | Harold's Chicken Shack | Iconic spot for fried chicken with a Chicago twist. |
| Fahrenheit | The Signature Room | High dining with stunning city views, reflecting Fahrenheit's atmosphere. |
| Amélie's French Bakery | Vanille Patisserie | French-inspired pastries and sweets that evoke the charm of Amélie's. |
| Optimist Hall | Revival Food Hall | All-local dining concept that encapsulates the food hall vibe of Optimist Hall. |
| Haberdish | Big Jones | Southern cooking with an emphasis on heritage recipes, akin to Haberdish's concept. |
| Heirloom | Farmhouse Chicago | Farm-to-table dishes that mirror Heirloom's commitment to local sourcing. |
| Soul Gastrolounge | Girl & The Goat | Eclectic small plates and a lively atmosphere, capturing the essence of Soul Gastrolounge. |
| Leah & Louise | Mississippi's Delta | Homestyle Southern dishes that reflect Leah & Louise’s soulful menu. |
Exploring the dining scene in a new city can be a thrilling adventure, especially when you find places that resonate with your taste. For instance, if you've enjoyed the communal atmosphere and Mediterranean flavors at KiKi Bistro, you'll find avec in Chicago to be a comforting replica with its warm, welcoming space and blend of Mediterranean and local dishes. Similarly, the transition from the South's famous barbecue at Midwood Smokehouse to Chicago's renowned Smoque BBQ will be seamless, capturing the essence of wood-smoked meats and the depth of flavors you’ve come to love. Also, those longing for the unique, artistic vibe and eclectic dishes of Soul Gastrolounge will find a kindred spirit in Girl & The Goat, where innovative plates and a dynamic ambiance create an unforgettable dining experience. Each comparison not only guides you to a new favorite spot but also brings a piece of Charlotte's culinary soul to your new Chicago lifestyle.
Ready to start your move?
Charlotte vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When contemplating a move, comparing the real estate landscape between your current and future city is crucial. In this guide, we'll delve into how Charlotte, NC, and Chicago, IL, stand in terms of housing. Understanding these differences will empower your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Charlotte | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Craftsman | Prairie, Greystone |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, natural light | Lake views, public transit access |
Charlotte's housing market is attractive with its blend of Colonial and Craftsman-style homes, often emphasizing large yards and ample natural light. This contrasts with Chicago's Prairie and Greystone architecture, where lake views and access to an extensive public transit system are frequently highlighted. Chicago scores higher in terms of urban lifestyle, boasting superior walkability and bikeability, reflecting its dense, urban environment. The difference in median monthly rent — higher in Chicago — correlates with it offering a more vibrant urban lifestyle. Whether your priority is space and comfort, or access to urban amenities, these cities cater to varied tastes and needs.
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.
Charlotte vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares between Charlotte, NC and Chicago, IL is crucial. This comparison will give you a clear picture of what to expect and how to prepare for your new environment.
Charlotte, NC
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charlotte, NC
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charlotte, NC
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charlotte, NC
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charlotte | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Tornadoes | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Charlotte to Chicago will introduce you to cooler summers and considerably colder winters. Chicago experiences about 29 fewer days of sunshine annually, which could affect your outdoor activities. Moreover, the significant difference in annual snowfall (Chicago receives 32 more inches on average) means you'll need to prepare for snow removal and winter driving. On the other hand, Charlotte's higher summer temperatures and slightly more humid climate could be a relief if you're not fond of the cold. Regardless of your preferences, preparing for these changes will make your transition smoother.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charlotte to Chicago
When relocating, grasping the financial landscape of your new home is crucial. This comparison provides insight into vital economic factors you'll face moving from Charlotte, NC to Chicago, IL. Understanding these differences will help ease your transition.
| Comparison | Charlotte | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $70,869 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 93.2 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.02 | 2.12 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Financial Services, Airlines, Energy | Financial Services, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | moderately affluent | varied |
| Poverty | noticeable | significant |
| Homelessness | present | concerning |
Exploring the financial nuances between Charlotte and Chicago highlights several factors essential to your move. Charlotte boasts a slightly higher average household income and a lower cost of living index compared to Chicago, making day-to-day expenses more manageable. However, Chicago's vibrant economic scene, driven by diverse industries, offers unique job opportunities. Property taxes in Chicago are significantly higher, which is an important consideration if you're thinking of buying a home. Meanwhile, sales tax rates are also higher in Chicago, affecting your regular purchases. Adjusting to these economic realities will be a key part of settling into your new city.
Charlotte vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot aimed to help you understand the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Charlotte & Chicago . As you plan your move, gaining insight into these aspects will help you integrate more smoothly into your new city.
| Charlotte | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate with a mix of conservative and liberal viewpoints | Liberal with progressive policies |
| Religion | Diverse, Protestant majority | Diverse, Catholic majority |
The comparative differences in the political and religious landscapes between Charlotte and Chicago reflect each city's unique culture and community values. Charlotte, with its slightly more moderate stance, presents a blend of conservative and liberal viewpoints, which can be seen in local governance and day-to-day life. In contrast, Chicago's political scene is more uniformly liberal, advocating progressive policies and initiatives. Regarding religion, Charlotte’s diverse spiritual community predominantly identifies with Protestant faiths, which influences local norms and traditions. Meanwhile, Chicago boasts a rich mosaic of religious beliefs with a significant number of residents identifying as Catholic, contributing to the city's broad spectrum of cultural and community events. This transition may offer you a fresh perspective on community involvement and local culture in your new home.
Charlotte vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Charlotte, NC to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like between these vibrant cities. Whether you're driving or taking public transport, this comparison of Charlotte & Chicago will help you navigate your new urban landscape with ease.
| Comparison | Charlotte | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24.9 | 34.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
In Charlotte, while the average commute time is shorter, the city's public transit options are not as robust as Chicago's, thus making it somewhat challenging to get by without a car. However, Chicago, with its extensive public transit system including buses and the "L" train, offers a more feasible lifestyle for those wishing to forego private vehicle ownership. The higher traffic congestion in Chicago reflects its bigger urban density but also comes with greater accessibility to public transport. This capability significantly contributes to Chicago's appeal for those who prioritize eco-friendly and cost-effective commuting options.
Additional Resources
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