Best Jersey City to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Jersey City to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 820 mile move from New Jersey to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 74 Jersey City 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 JP Urban Moving), 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 Jersey City 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.

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Best Jersey City to Chicago Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1JP Urban Moving9.859.78Authorized For HHGContact
2Avant-Garde Moving & Storage9.649.54Authorized For HHGContact
3Konstantly Moving NYC LLC9.559.52Authorized For HHGContact
4606 Movers, Inc.9.369.27Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Jersey City to Chicago

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 820 miles from Jersey City, NJ to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,479 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Jersey City to Chicago move is roughly $5,949. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,667300 ft³5.56
1 Bedroom$2,479450 ft³5.51
2 Bedrooms$4,093750 ft³5.46
3 Bedrooms$5,9491100 ft³5.41
4 Bedrooms$8,5731600 ft³5.36
5+ Bedrooms$9,5541800 ft³5.31
*Please note: These New Jersey to Illinois moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from New Jersey & Illinois. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed NJ to IL mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Jersey City guide.

Compare the 5 Best Jersey City to Chicago Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

JP Urban Moving Logo

JP Urban Moving

Exceptional9.85/10
based on 4,145+ data points

266 St Marks Ave 3rd fl

Brooklyn, NY, 11238

About JP Urban Moving

JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to...

Services

  • Local NYC Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving, Business Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2096754 / 882954

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved120,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Avant-Garde Moving & Storage Logo

Avant-Garde Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 1,360+ data points

42 West St

Brooklyn, NY, 11222

About Avant-Garde Moving & Storage

Based in Brooklyn, Avant-Garde Moving & Storage has provided unique and innovative moving solutions for over 10 years. As a locally...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3579996 / 1208919

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Konstantly Moving NYC LLC Logo

Konstantly Moving NYC LLC

Exceptional9.55/10
based on 776+ data points

132 W 31st St

New York, NY, 10001

About Konstantly Moving NYC LLC

Konstantly Moving NYC LLC, established in 2020, is a moving company with over 17 years of industry experience. Based in New...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long distance moving
  • Packing, unpacking, & crating

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3161292 / 1125893

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
606 Movers, Inc. Logo

606 Movers, Inc.

Exceptional9.36/10
based on 1,152+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
4
Move-tastic! Logo

Move-tastic!

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 15,326+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers28
Total Annual Miles Moved90,866 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Jersey City vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

Transitioning to a new city can be daunting, especially when leaving behind familiar comforts. To ease this transition, consider this comparison of the local neighborhoods between Jersey City, NJ & Chicago, IL. By finding a Chicago neighborhood reminiscent of your favorite spot in Jersey City, you can quickly feel at home in the Windy City.

Jersey CityChicagoHow They're Similar
Downtown Jersey CityLoopVibrant, bustling business area
Journal SquareLogan SquareDiverse, creative community
Hamilton ParkLincoln ParkGreen spaces, family-friendly
Paulus HookOld TownHistoric, waterfront charm
GreenvillePilsenRich cultural heritage, arts scene
Liberty State Park areaGrant ParkExpansive parks, major attractions
The HeightsWicker ParkHip, with a mix of cultures
The WaterfrontLakeviewStunning views, lively community
Bergen-LafayetteHyde ParkHistoric, with an academic vibe
West SideWest LoopTrendy restaurants, urban feel

Residents moving from Jersey City's Hamilton Park, known for its picturesque green spaces and community vibe, will find a welcoming similarity in Chicago's Lincoln Park. This area isn't just about the expansive Lincoln Park itself; it also boasts a zoo, the Lincoln Park Conservatory, and a variety of family-friendly cafes and shops lining its streets. If the historic waterfront charm of Paulus Hook captured your heart, Chicago's Old Town, with its quaint buildings and close proximity to the lake, offers a similar allure. Here, you can explore the legendary Second City comedy club and dine at local favorites like The Old Town Ale House. For those drawn to the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of Downtown Jersey City, The Loop in Chicago mirrors that dynamic spirit with its iconic theaters, art installations, and state-of-the-art parks, like Millennium Park, making it an exciting hub for new Chicagoans.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Jersey City to Chicago

Moving from one city to another always comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison seeks to offer an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Jersey City, NJ to Chicago, IL. By evaluating both sides of the coin, you can make a well-informed decision about your big move.

CONs
PROs
Jersey City, NJ iconJersey City, NJ
  • Higher living cost
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less diverse food scene
  • Scarce green spaces
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • More affordable living
  • Bigger city experience
  • World-class cuisine
  • Abundant parks and lakes
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Far from NYC
  • Less intimate neighborhoods
  • Fewer finance job opportunities
  • Busier, louder streets
Jersey City, NJ iconJersey City, NJ
  • Proximity to NYC
  • Smaller, close-knit communities
  • Easy access to finance jobs
  • Quieter streets

Considering the move from Jersey City to Chicago brings several features into sharp relief. Chicago's renowned food scene, for instance, features a myriad of world-class restaurants such as Alinea and Giordano's for deep-dish pizza lovers, offering a much broader culinary landscape than Jersey City. Similarly, Chicago's ample parks and waterfronts, including the likes of Millennium Park and the Lakefront Trail, provide expansive green spaces for outdoor activities—a stark contrast to the more limited options in Jersey City. While you might miss the intimate neighborhoods and proximity to NYC that Jersey City offers, Chicago's vibrant city experience, from bustling neighborhoods like Wicker Park to cultural institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago, presents a compelling allure that is hard to overlook.

Jersey City vs. Chicago Food Guide

Food is not just about sustenance; it's a vibrant part of local culture and the daily living experience. To enrich your relocation journey, this guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Jersey City & Chicago . By reviewing the unique flavors, popular dishes, and signature restaurants each city boasts, you'll gain a tastier insight into your future home.

Jersey CityChicago
Most iconic local food itemTaylor Ham (Pork Roll)Deep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishItalian Hot DogsItalian Beef Sandwich
Most popular street food itemFood Trucks VarietyChicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan foodVegan BurgersSeitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Razza Pizza Artigianale
  • 99 Ranch Market
  • The Kitchen Step
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Au Cheval
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Chicago, the local cuisine is a reflection of its rich culinary heritage with deep-rooted traditions and a modern twist. The city's iconic deep-dish pizza, with its thick crust and inverted layering of cheese and tomato sauce, can be best experienced in renowned establishments like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria. For those seeking innovative dining experiences, Alinea offers a contemporary take on fine dining, constantly ranking as one of the best restaurants worldwide. Chicago's food scene is further enriched by its street foods, especially its unique Chicago-style hot dog, readily available in various neighborhoods, offering a taste of the city's gastronomic diversity. Whether exploring the bustling streets of The Loop or the historic vibes of the Gold Coast, food lovers will find themselves amidst a plethora of flavors and culinary experiments in Chicago.

Jersey City vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

When it comes to feeling at home in your new city, discovering the perfect dining spots is key. This guide compares top restaurants in Jersey City to those in Chicago , helping you find your next favorite eatery by drawing parallels with ones you already love. Whether you crave haute cuisine, a casual nibble, or a taste of local delicacies, this comparison will make your culinary transition seamless and delicious.

Jersey CityChicagoWhat You'll Love
Razza Pizza ArtigianalePizzeria BebuArtisanal thin-crust pizzas with a focus on local ingredients
Marco & PepeLongman & EagleInventive American fare in a gastropub setting
Liberty House RestaurantThe Signature Room at the 95thElegant dining with panoramic city views
PortaAvecA Mediterranean and Midwestern influenced menu in a chic, communal setting
Taqueria DowntownBig StarA lively spot for tacos and whiskey in a vibrant setting
BattelloNorth PondSeasonally inspired New American cuisine in a scenic park setting
Edward's SteakhouseGibsons Bar & SteakhouseRenowned for its hearty steaks and upscale ambiance
Mathews Food and DrinkThe PublicanEmphasizes farm-to-table ingredients in an eclectic, beer-focused menu
Latham HouseGirl & The GoatInnovative small plates in a trendy atmosphere
Hamilton PorkSmoque BBQA passion for authentic smoked meats and a local favorite

Diving deeper into our comparison, dining at Razza Pizza Artigianale in Jersey City likely means you're a fan of meticulously crafted pizzas. Pizzeria Bebu in Chicago will not disappoint, offering a similar dedication to quality and local sourcing for their thin-crust delights. On the more upscale end, a night out at Liberty House Restaurant is all about upscale dining with stunning views, a vibe that you'll find mirrored at The Signature Room at the 95th in Chicago, where the dining experience is elevated—quite literally—to new heights against the city's skyline. For those who enjoy the atmospheric blend of rustic and contemporary in their dining spaces, akin to that of Battello, North Pond offers an unmatched blend of seasonal American cuisine nestled within a tranquil park setting. This guide aims to not just match your culinary preferences but to enrich your dining experiences as you settle into Chicago.

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Ready to start your move?

Jersey City vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of Jersey City, NJ and Chicago, IL is crucial. Real estate choices impact your lifestyle and budget. Let’s dive into how these two cities measure up in terms of housing, to help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonJersey CityChicago
Typical Architecture StyleModern and Historical MixBrick Bungalows and Skyscrapers
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingViews of Manhattan, Proximity to TransitLake Michigan views, Historic districts

In both Jersey City and Chicago, housing costs and styles play a significant role in defining the living experience. Jersey City boasts a remarkable view of Manhattan, a key selling point often mentioned in real estate listings, alongside its modern mixed with historical architecture. The city is highly walkable, making it appealing for those who enjoy strolling through diverse neighborhoods. Chicago, on the other hand, is renowned for its iconic architectural styles, from brick bungalows to towering skyscrapers, providing a wide range of housing options. The bikeability score of Chicago edges out that of Jersey City, inviting those with a love for cycling to explore its expansive bike lanes and picturesque waterfront. Both cities offer vibrant urban lifestyles, though they differ significantly in housing costs, with Chicago presenting a more affordable option for both renters and buyers.

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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.

Jersey City vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another means adapting to new weather patterns. If you're considering relocating from Jersey City, NJ to Chicago, IL, understanding how the climate differs between these locations is critical. This comparison highlights key weather aspects to help you prepare for your move.

Summer icon
85°F / 69°F

Jersey City, NJ

84°F / 68°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
39°F / 26°F

Jersey City, NJ

31°F / 18°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
47

Jersey City, NJ

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
25

Jersey City, NJ

36

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonJersey CityChicago
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersStorms, FloodingBlizzards, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from Jersey City to Chicago, prepare for colder winters with more snow, as Chicago averages 11 more inches of snow annually. However, both cities enjoy relatively similar summer temperatures. You might notice the difference in the number of sunny days, with Jersey City having about 21 more days of sunshine per year than Chicago. Additionally, while both cities have their share of natural disasters, Chicago’s are notably different, with a higher risk of blizzards and tornadoes, compared to the storms and potential flooding you're used to in Jersey City. Understanding these differences can help you adjust more quickly to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Jersey City to Chicago

When transitioning from Jersey City, NJ to Chicago, IL, it's essential to scrutinize the financial landscape you're moving into. This comparison aims to illuminate how the cost of living , income taxes , and housing affordability in Jersey City and Chicago will affect your wallet. Understanding these differences ensures you're well-prepared for your new setting.

ComparisonJersey CityChicago
Avg. Household Income$81,958$66,576
Cost of Living Index129.7116.9
State Income Tax1.4 - 10.75%4.95% (flat)
Avg. Property Tax1.62%2.12%
Avg. Sales Tax6.625%10.25%
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Insurance, Real EstateManufacturing, Retail, Health Services
AffluenceModerately affluentVaried
PovertyLowNoticeable
HomelessnessLow to moderateSignificant

While the average household income in Jersey City outweighs that of Chicago, it's crucial to note that New Jersey's varying state income tax could take a larger bite out of your paycheck compared to Illinois' flat rate. However, the cost of living index proves life in Chicago to be more affordable, potentially compensating for the lower average income. Despite this difference, Chicago's higher sales and property taxes should prompt you to account for greater expenses in these areas. Both cities showcase diverse top industries, highlighting opportunities for different career paths. Understanding these nuances will help tailor your financial expectations and preparations for your move.

Jersey City vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

Are you considering moving from Jersey City, NJ, to Chicago, IL? Here's a comparison of the politics and religious makeup of Jersey City & Chicago to give you a quick snapshot of the communities you'll be joining. It's helpful to understand the local political leanings, how politics play out on a local level, and the religious landscape of your new home.

Jersey CityChicago
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrong Democratic
Local PoliticsModerate engagementHigh engagement
ReligionDiverse, with a significant Catholic populationDiverse, with a significant Catholic and Protestant population

In both Jersey City and Chicago, the political landscape is dominantly Democratic, though Chicago tends to have a stronger Democratic leaning and more politically engaged population. This might influence your experience with local policies, community projects, and the overall social atmosphere. On the religious front, both cities boast diversity, though Jersey City has a notably significant Catholic base. Meanwhile, Chicago houses a vibrant mix of Catholic and Protestant communities, reflecting its wider array of religious institutions and active faith-based organizations. Moving between these cities, you'll find a rich, albeit differing, tapestry of political and religious life shaping the community.

Jersey City vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When considering a move from Jersey City, NJ to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to understand the differences between the daily commute and traffic, as well as transportation options between Jersey City & Chicago. This comparison aims to ease your transition and help you adjust to your new city's rhythm of life.

ComparisonJersey CityChicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3534
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesYes

While Jersey City and Chicago have similar average commute times, Chicago edges out slightly in terms of less traffic congestion and a slightly higher availability of public transit. This reinforces the idea that you can comfortably live in either city without a car, thanks to extensive public transportation networks. In Jersey City, the PATH train and NJ Transit buses form the backbone of public transit, facilitating easy commutes into Manhattan and throughout New Jersey. Chicago’s CTA buses and 'L' trains similarly offer comprehensive coverage, connecting diverse neighborhoods and major attractions efficiently. Understanding these dynamics can significantly ease your adjustment to your new city, not just in navigating your daily commute but also in exploring all that your new home has to offer.

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