Best Lincoln to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Lincoln to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 523 mile move from Nebraska to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Lincoln 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 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Lincoln 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 Lincoln 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 | King's Moving | 9.36 | 9.35 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Black Belt Movers | 8.14 | 8.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Select Van & Storage Co. | 7.84 | 7.7 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Lincoln to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 523 miles from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,226 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Lincoln to Chicago move is roughly $5,331. 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 | $1,499 | 300 ft³ | 5.00 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,226 | 450 ft³ | 4.95 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,672 | 750 ft³ | 4.90 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,331 | 1100 ft³ | 4.85 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,675 | 1600 ft³ | 4.80 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,544 | 1800 ft³ | 4.75 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Lincoln guide.
Compare the 5 Best Lincoln 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) |
King's Moving
7530 F St
Omaha, NE, 68127
About King's Moving
King’s Moving is a five-star rated business established in 2012. Widely regarded as Omaha’s top local moving company, King’s Moving has...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Residential moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 960979 / 954013 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 65,000 (2022) |
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) |
Black Belt Movers
1514 S 3rd St
Lincoln, NE, 68502
About Black Belt Movers
Black Belt Movers is a Lincoln moving company that provides professional residential and commercial moving services including local and long-distance moves,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Piano Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2631961 / 916084 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 11 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 54,120 (2024) |
Select Van & Storage Co.
6651 Seward Ave
Lincoln, NE, 68507
About Select Van & Storage Co.
Select Van & Storage Co. is a family-owned professional moving company that serves residential and commercial clients in Lincoln, NE as...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long Distance Moves
- Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1098759 / 448741 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 67 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 562,013 (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.
Lincoln vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
When relocating to a new city, it can be comforting to find a neighborhood reminiscent of home. This guide helps you transition from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL by comparing their local neighborhoods. By identifying the most akin areas in Chicago to your favorite spots in Lincoln, you'll feel right at home in no time.
| Lincoln | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Hawthorne | Hyde Park | Rich history, strong community focus |
| Country Club | Lincoln Park | Green spaces, upscale living |
| Indian Village | Andersonville | Diverse, vibrant community life |
| Belmont | Portage Park | Family-friendly, with extensive parkland |
| Yankee Ridge | Ravenswood | Quiet, with a mix of single-family homes and apartments |
| Bishop Park | Rogers Park | Close to water, diverse, energetic community |
| Colonial Hills | Bucktown | Artistic vibe, with unique shops and cafes |
| Family Acres | Wicker Park | Young professionals, lively nightlife scene |
| South 48th Street | Bridgeport | Working-class roots, evolving with a vibrant arts scene |
| Everett | Logan Square | Historic boulevards, booming culinary scene |
For those drawn to Hawthorne's historic charm in Lincoln, Hyde Park in Chicago offers a similar rich history with its well-preserved architecture and robust community spirit. Meanwhile, if you enjoyed the luxurious green spaces and upscale feel of Country Club, Lincoln Park in Chicago will charm you with its vast parkland, including the Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory. For lovers of vibrant, diverse communities like Indian Village in Lincoln, Andersonville in Chicago provides an equally lively and inclusive atmosphere, known for its supportive local business scene featuring spots like Women & Children First bookstore and Hopleaf Bar for a unique blend of cultural experiences. These comparisons demonstrate Chicago's rich mosaic of neighborhoods, each with unique features that resonate with those familiar with Lincoln's diverse districts.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Lincoln to Chicago
Moving from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL is a life-changing decision that requires careful consideration. This guide aims to present an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. By comparing the pros and cons directly, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what each city offers and how this move might impact your life.
Lincoln, NE- Smaller job market
- Fewer cultural venues
- Less diversity
- Lower cost of living
Chicago, IL- Larger job market
- Rich cultural scene
- Greater diversity
- Higher cost of living
Chicago, IL- Noisier environment
- More traffic
- Less tight-knit communities
- Higher crime rates
Lincoln, NE- Quiet city life
- Less traffic
- Strong community feel
- Lower crime rates
When considering a move from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL, you're not just changing your address but stepping into a vastly different lifestyle. Chicago's rich cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, offering renowned institutions like The Art Institute of Chicago and historic music venues like The Chicago Theatre. Neighborhood parks such as Lincoln Park offer expansive green spaces alongside Lake Michigan, making it a leisurely retreat from the bustling city. Chicago's restaurant scene is a food lover's dream, featuring a wide array of cuisines from world-class establishments like Alinea to iconic deep-dish pizza spots. While the move brings you to a city with a higher cost of living and potentially more noise and traffic, the trade-offs include unparalleled access to diverse experiences, from vibrant community events in neighborhoods like Wicker Park to endless shopping along the Magnificent Mile.
Lincoln vs. Chicago Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Lincoln & Chicago highlights the rich culinary scenes of both cities. As food is an integral part of local culture and everyday living, understanding the differences and specialties will enrich your moving experience.
| Lincoln | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Runza | Deep-dish pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Steak | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Food Truck Tacos | Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Chicago-style Vegan Pizza |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving to Chicago, prepare yourself for an exuberant food scene that's both diverse and plentiful. The city's love for deep-dish pizza is well-represented in iconic restaurants like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, but there's more to explore beyond pizza. The Italian Beef and Chicago-style hot dogs are must-tries for meat lovers. The River North and Wicker Park neighborhoods are renowned for their culinary diversity, offering a wide range of vegan options and globally-inspired cuisines. Chicago's extensive food truck scene and ever-growing number of health-conscious eateries make it easy to find something that fits any dietary preference or craving.
Lincoln vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
When moving to a new city, discovering where to eat is pivotal in making the place feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Lincoln and Chicago aims to transition your taste buds seamlessly, helping you find new favorites that echo the flavors of your Lincoln go-tos. Let's dive into the culinary scene comparison.
| Lincoln | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Oven | Rangoli | Authentic Indian cuisine with a similar atmosphere |
| Honest Abe's | Au Cheval | Renowned burgers that rival the creativity at Honest Abe's |
| Blue Sushi Sake Grill | RA Sushi | Innovative sushi rolls and a vibrant dining experience |
| Leadbelly | The Publican | Upscale pub fare with an emphasis on quality ingredients |
| Green Gateau | Bistronomic | French-inspired cuisine with a cozy, welcoming vibe |
| Lazlo's Brewery & Grill | Revolution Brewing | Craft beer and hearty American classics |
| Misty's Steakhouse | Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse | Iconic Chicago steakhouse with a rich history |
| Vincenzo's Ristorante | RPM Italian | Chic space with modern Italian dishes |
| Sebastian's Table | Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! | Spanish tapas bar offering a communal dining experience |
| Yiayia's Pizza | Pequod's Pizza | Deep dish and crispy crust, a Chicago pizza staple |
Exploring the essence of Lincoln's diverse dining scene through Chicago's vibrant offerings reveals exciting similarities and novel experiences. For instance, while Honest Abe's sets the bar high for inventive burgers, stepping into Au Cheval introduces you to a cult favorite in Chicago, known for what many argue to be the best burger in town. Furthermore, if the unique Indian flavors at The Oven have been a staple in your dining routine, Rangoli in Chicago will not disappoint, offering a rich tapestry of authentic dishes that exude the same warmth and aroma. And for those evenings when only the incomparable comfort of deep-dish pizza will do, Pequod's Pizza provides an experience that rivals the beloved Yiayia's Pizza, with its caramelized crust being a touchstone for Chicago's deep-dish heritage.
Ready to start your move?
Lincoln vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, exploring the nuances of real estate between Lincoln, NE, and Chicago, IL is crucial. Understanding the cost of living, housing styles, and local amenities in each city can greatly impact your decision-making process. Let’s navigate these differences together, focusing on what makes each location unique.
| Comparison | Lincoln | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Mid-Century Modern, Ranch | Greystone, Chicago Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Quiet neighborhoods | Lake views, Proximity to public transportation |
The difference in median home prices and rent between Lincoln and Chicago highlights the cost of living variation, with Chicago being considerably higher. However, this price difference often comes with the advantage of a more vibrant urban lifestyle, as indicated by Chicago's higher scores in walkability and urban lifestyle. The typical architecture in each city reflects its unique character; Lincoln boasts mid-century modern and ranch styles, indicating spacious and suburban qualities. In contrast, Chicago is known for its historic greystones and bungalows, offering a glimpse into the city's storied past. Additionally, the emphasis on lake views and access to public transportation in Chicago listings suggests a lifestyle that balances natural beauty with urban convenience.
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.
Lincoln vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares. This guide is designed to help you anticipate the climatic changes between Lincoln, NE and Chicago, IL, ensuring a smoother transition to your new environment.
Lincoln, NE
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Lincoln, NE
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Lincoln, NE
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Lincoln, NE
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Lincoln | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Thunderstorms | Blizzards, Lake Effect Snow |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Lincoln enjoys more days of sunshine annually, Chicago boasts milder summer temperatures and slightly warmer winters, despite having more snowfall due to its location near Lake Michigan. The difference in annual rainfall indicates that Chicago experiences more wet conditions, which, coupled with higher average humidity, can have an impact on daily life and activities. Air quality and natural disaster risks also vary, reflecting the unique geographical and environmental factors of each city. Understanding these distinctions can help you prepare better for what to expect and enjoy a smoother transition to your new home in Chicago.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Lincoln to Chicago
When considering a move from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to examine the financial landscape of both locations. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in cost of living, average income, and taxation between Lincoln and Chicago, equipping you with essential information to make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Lincoln | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $62,294 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.85 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 6.84 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.88 | 2.16 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.5 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Retail | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
Moving from Lincoln to Chicago, you'll encounter a significant shift in the economic landscape. While the average household income in Lincoln is higher, Chicago's cost of living index surpasses that of Lincoln by a notable margin, making everyday expenses potentially more burdensome. Additionally, the stark contrast in sales tax rates—5.5% in Lincoln versus Chicago's 10.25%—will affect your budget, especially for significant purchases. The difference in predominant industries points to the diverse opportunities and challenges you might face, with Chicago's economy leaning more towards finance, manufacturing, and IT. Understanding these nuances will help you prepare financially for life in a new city.
Lincoln vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
The transition from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL involves more than just a change of scenery. It's important to understand the communities and what drives their beliefs and values. This includes a comparison of the politics between Lincoln & Chicago, offering a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of both cities.
| Lincoln | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans conservative, but with growing liberal segments | Strongly liberal |
| Local Politics | Nonpartisan city elections | Democratic dominance in city government |
| Religion | Mixed, with a significant Christian population | Diverse, with a notable presence of Catholic, Jewish, and Muslim communities |
In terms of politics, while Lincoln presents a more balanced dynamic, shifting between conservative and liberal ideologies, Chicago is known for its strong liberal leanings. This difference reflects in local politics too, where Lincoln holds nonpartisan city elections contrary to Chicago's heavily Democratic-leaning government. When it comes to spiritual beliefs, both cities offer a rich tapestry of faiths. However, Chicago's greater size and diversity translate to a broader representation of religions, including significant Catholic, Jewish, and Muslim communities, compared to Lincoln's predominantly Christian populace. This move will immerse you into environments with differing dominant ideologies and cultural settings, offering a fresh perspective on community values.
Lincoln vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Lincoln, NE to Chicago, IL can be a big transition, especially when considering your daily commute. To better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, we've compared the two cities emphasizing the differences in traffic and transportation options.
| Comparison | Lincoln | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 18.9 | 34.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Yes |
In Lincoln, the average commute time is significantly shorter than in Chicago, and you'll encounter less traffic congestion. However, Lincoln's public transit system scores lower than Chicago's, making it more challenging to get by without a car. In contrast, Chicago offers an extensive public transit network, including buses and the "L" train system, making it easier to navigate the city without personal transportation. This stark difference in public transit availability highlights the need for a car in Lincoln, whereas in Chicago, you can more feasibly rely on public transportation for your daily commute.
Additional Resources
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