Best Pittsburgh to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Pittsburgh to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 462 mile move from Pennsylvania to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 51 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh to Chicago Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pittsburgh Moving | 9.62 | 9.51 | Authorized For HHG | 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 | Meta Movers | 9.11 | 9.43 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 8.80 | 8.2 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Pittsburgh to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 462 miles from Pittsburgh, PA to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,174 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Pittsburgh to Chicago move is roughly $5,204. 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 | $1,464 | 300 ft³ | 4.88 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,174 | 450 ft³ | 4.83 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,586 | 750 ft³ | 4.78 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,204 | 1100 ft³ | 4.73 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,490 | 1600 ft³ | 4.68 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,336 | 1800 ft³ | 4.63 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Pittsburgh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Pittsburgh to Chicago Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Pittsburgh Moving
5746 Pierce St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15232
About Pittsburgh Moving
Located in the City of Bridges, Pittsburgh Moving is a full-service moving company dedicated to making your local and intrastate relocations...
Services
- Local move in Pittsburgh
- Long distance moving in or out of Pittsburgh
- Residential move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3901080 / 1437162 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2023) |
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) |
Meta Movers
13 Holt St
Pittsburgh, PA, 15203
About Meta Movers
Meta Movers is a licensed and insured moving company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with over a decade of experience in the...
Services
- Full-service local Pittsburgh moves
- Long distance residential and commercial moves
- Loading or unloading your truck or pod
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3295834 / 1044452 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
Two Men and a Truck
3555 Valley Dr
Pittsburgh, PA, 15234
About Two Men and a Truck
With a premium brand of service rooted in hard work, trust, and high customer satisfaction, Two Men And A Truck is...
Services
- Local Moving
- Junk Removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1321899 / 509618 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 15 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 260,000 (2022) |
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.
Pittsburgh vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel like navigating uncharted waters. To help bridge the gap, we compare popular neighborhoods in Pittsburgh, PA & Chicago, IL , making the transition a bit more familiar. By identifying neighborhoods with similar vibes, amenities, and communities, we aim to make your move as seamless as possible.
| Pittsburgh | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Shadyside | Lincoln Park | Vibrant nightlife, rich history |
| Squirrel Hill | Lakeview | Diverse community, extensive dining options |
| Lawrenceville | Wicker Park | Artsy, bustling with boutiques |
| East Liberty | Logan Square | Trendy, filled with breweries |
| South Side | Bucktown | Edgy vibe, renowned eateries |
| Strip District | Fulton Market | Foodie heaven, industrial chic |
| Mount Washington | Gold Coast | Luxurious, panoramic views |
| Bloomfield | Andersonville | Cozy, community-focused |
| Oakland | Hyde Park | Intellectual hub, museum-rich |
| North Shore | Streeterville | Cultural attractions, waterfront amenities |
Exploring neighborhoods like Shadyside and Lincoln Park reveals common threads of vibrant nightlife and rich history, perfect for late-night enthusiasts and history buffs alike. If you're drawn to the artsy and boutique-filled streets of Lawrenceville, Wicker Park in Chicago offers a similar ambiance with its emphasis on local art and fashion. Meanwhile, the transition from the diverse and dining-rich atmosphere of Squirrel Hill to Lakeview in Chicago could be seamless, with both areas boasting a wide array of restaurants and community events. For those moving from Pittsburgh's East Liberty, finding a new favorite spot among Logan Square's trendy breweries and coffee shops could offer a comforting slice of home. Each neighborhood, from the foodie paradise of the Strip District and Fulton Market to the panoramic vistas of Mount Washington and Gold Coast, encapsulates a unique piece of the city's heart, ensuring that no matter where you come from, you'll find a piece of home in Chicago.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Pittsburgh to Chicago
Moving from one city to another can be a complex decision that weighs heavily on weighing the pros and cons of such a transition. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from Pittsburgh, PA to Chicago, IL, enabling you to make a well-informed decision. Through the subsequent charts, you'll gain insights into how life differs between these two cities, from everyday living to unique opportunities and challenges.
Pittsburgh, PA- Smaller city vibe
- Lesser cultural scene
- Lower job diversity
- Lower public transit coverage
Chicago, IL- Larger city opportunities
- Vibrant arts scene
- Greater job market
- Extensive public transportation
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- Less personalized
- More urbanized
- Heavier traffic
Pittsburgh, PA- Lower cost of living
- Community feel
- More green spaces
- Easier traffic navigation
Each city boasts its own charms and challenges. In Chicago, you’ll find yourself in the heart of a bustling cultural and economic hub, home to iconic sights such as Millennium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago. The city's vast public transportation network, including the ‘L’ train, makes commuting and exploring the city both efficient and exciting. On the other hand, Pittsburgh, with its community-oriented neighborhoods like Shadyside and the green expanses of Schenley Park, offers a quieter lifestyle amidst rich history and growing tech scene. While Chicago's higher cost of living and denser urban landscape may pose initial challenges, the city's vibrant restaurants, such as the renowned Alinea, and diverse entertainment options provide a dynamic backdrop to city life. Ultimately, both cities have much to offer, whether you’re seeking professional opportunities or a rich cultural scene.
Pittsburgh vs. Chicago Food Guide
Understanding the local food culture is key to feeling at home in a new city. This guide will delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Pittsburgh & Chicago , equipping you with insights into the rich culinary scenes awaiting you. Whether you're a food enthusiast or just love exploring local flavors, this comparison will help you navigate your gastronomical journey in your new home.
| Pittsburgh | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Primanti Bros. Sandwich | Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Pittsburgh-style Steak | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Pierogi | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Black Bean Burger | Chicago Diner's Vegan Shake |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Chicago's love affair with deep-dish pizza is an open secret, and neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and the Loop house joints such as Lou Malnati's and Pequod's that serve this iconic dish. On the other hand, Pittsburgh offers a unique culinary gem with the Primanti Bros. Sandwich, a hearty meal that includes meat, coleslaw, tomato, and French fries all between two slices of Italian bread, found in the Strip District. When it comes to street food, Chicago’s hot dog, often found at stands throughout the city, refuses ketchup in favor of mustard, relish, celery salt, and other toppings. Despite Chicago's notorious meat-centric dining, it's home to numerous vegan-friendly spots, including the beloved Chicago Diner with its legendary vegan shake, showcasing the city's evolving, inclusive food scene.
Pittsburgh vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in making a new city feel like home. This guide will help you transition seamlessly from Pittsburgh to Chicago by comparing the top restaurants in Pittsburgh to their closest counterparts in Chicago, ensuring you'll find new favorite eateries in no time.
| Pittsburgh | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Primanti Bros. | Portillo's | Famous for its sandwiches, offering a taste similar to Primanti's iconic subs. |
| Pamela's Diner | Ann Sather | Known for its hearty breakfasts and cinnamon rolls, mirroring Pamela's comfort food vibe. |
| Altius | Alinea | High-end dining with innovative dishes, akin to Altius' gourmet experiences. |
| Gaucho Parrilla Argentina | Tango Sur | Offers a memorable Argentinian steak experience reminiscent of Gaucho's fire-grilled meats. |
| DiAnoia's Eatery | Monteverde | Celebrated for its Italian dishes and homemade pasta, echoing DiAnoia's authenticity. |
| The Commoner | The Publican | Both focus on American fare with a twist, using locally sourced ingredients. |
| Meat & Potatoes | Au Cheval | Famous for its burgers and upscale pub grub, offering a similar vibe to Meat & Potatoes. |
| Pusadee’s Garden | Star of Siam | Authentic Thai cuisine in a tranquil setting, much like Pusadee’s lush outdoor dining. |
| Umami | Yusho | Creative Asian-inspired dishes and unique flavor profiles matching Umami's innovative approach. |
| Federal Galley | Revival Food Hall | A collective of diverse eateries under one roof, similar to Federal Galley's concept. |
For those seeking a taste of home in Chicago, places like Portillo's offer the iconic Chicago-style hot dog and Italian beef sandwiches that can compete with Pittsburgh's kitchen-sink approach at Primanti Bros. Meanwhile, the innovative and upscale dining experience at Alinea provides an adventurous alternative to Pittsburgh's Altius, showcasing the art of fine dining with a touch of molecular gastronomy. And for the lovers of authentic Italian kitchens, Monteverde stands out in Chicago's culinary scene, offering handcrafted pasta dishes that remind one of the homely and heartwarming meals at DiAnoia's Eatery. Whether you're exploring the buzzing food halls or indulging in high-end dining, Chicago's diverse restaurant scene ensures that every Pittsburgh transplant finds comfort and excitement in their new culinary adventures.
Ready to start your move?
Pittsburgh vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When contemplating a move, assessing real estate dynamics plays a pivotal role in decision-making processes. Here, we delve into how Pittsburgh and Chicago compare, focusing on crucial facets like cost, architecture, and lifestyle. This comparison aims to illuminate the contrasts and similarities that might influence your decision.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, American Craftsman | Prairie, Chicago School |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious layouts, Green spaces | Lake views, Proximity to public transportation |
The comparison between Pittsburgh and Chicago reveals a discernible difference not only in the living costs but also in the lifestyle each city offers. While Chicago demands a higher financial commitment, both in housing prices and rents, it compensates with a more vibrant urban lifestyle, improved walkability, and better access to biking infrastructure. One of Chicago's standout features is its famous architectural landscape, including the Prairie and Chicago School styles, which contrast with Pittsburgh's dominant Victorian and American Craftsman designs. Additionally, the high urban lifestyle score for Chicago suggests a denser, more activity-rich environment, likely a crucial consideration for those seeking a dynamic living setting.
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.
Pittsburgh vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another can bring about a significant change in your daily life, especially when it comes to weather. Understanding how the weather compares between Pittsburgh and Chicago will help you prepare for the differences you’ll encounter in each season.
Pittsburgh, PA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Pittsburgh, PA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Pittsburgh, PA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Pittsburgh, PA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Floods, Snowstorms | Blizzards, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Both Pittsburgh and Chicago experience distinct seasonal changes, but you'll find more days of sunshine and slightly warmer summer temperatures in Chicago. However, Chicago's winters can be rigorous, often colder, and windier due to the 'Windy City' location near Lake Michigan, which can also enhance the “lake effect” snowfall. Understanding these differences can help you transition smoothly and ensure you’re prepared for the unique seasonal challenges each city presents. Adequate winter gear and summer comfort measures will be essential as you adapt to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Pittsburgh to Chicago
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape will change. This comparison between Pittsburgh and Chicago sheds light on what you can expect in terms of money and finance, helping you make an informed decision for your relocation.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $57,821 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.5 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 3.07 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.07 | 2.11 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7% | 10.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Technology | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Significant |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
When you move from Pittsburgh to Chicago, there are several financial aspects to consider. The average household income is slightly higher in Chicago, suggesting probably higher earning potential. However, this comes with a higher cost of living and notably higher state and sales taxes, which can eat into your income. Housing is a significant factor as well, with property taxes being slightly higher in Chicago. The differences in the top industries between the two cities reflect the economic focus and job opportunities you might find. While both cities face challenges with poverty and homelessness, the situation is described as more significant in Chicago. This information is instrumental in helping you anticipate how your financial situation might change and plan accordingly.
Pittsburgh vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison between Pittsburgh & Chicago offers a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of the cities you're moving from and to, providing insights into the life and culture you might expect.
| Pittsburgh | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on environment; economic development initiatives | Progressive; strong focus on social justice and community programs |
| Religion | Diverse; strong Catholic presence Diocese of Pittsburgh | Diverse; significant Catholic and Protestant presence Archdiocese of Chicago |
While Pittsburgh leans Democratic with a notable focus on environmental initiatives and economic development, Chicago is strongly Democratic, with a pronounced commitment to social justice and community programs. This difference reflects the larger, more diverse population of Chicago, which engenders a broader spectrum of political and civic engagement. The religious landscape in both cities is quite diverse, with a significant presence of Catholic institutions that play a major role in community services and education. By understanding these nuances, you can better anticipate the cultural and social environment of your new home.
Pittsburgh vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Pittsburgh, PA to Chicago, IL requires adjusting to new daily commutes and understanding the local traffic and transport scenarios. This comparison of traffic and transportation options between Pittsburgh & Chicago helps set realistic expectations for your new life.
| Comparison | Pittsburgh | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Easier, especially in the city center |
When considering the move from Pittsburgh to Chicago, it's crucial to prepare for a longer average commute time by about 8 minutes. This might not seem much, but it adds up to extra hours spent in transit each week. Although both cities experience their share of traffic congestion, Chicago's is slightly higher, reflective of its larger population and denser urban layout. However, the Windy City boasts a better public transit system, rated 8 out of 10, with extensive coverage through the Chicago Transit Authority, making it easier to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. Living in Chicago, you’ll find the public transportation options more robust, particularly with the famed 'L' trains, which could be a significant advantage if you’re accustomed to Pittsburgh's more limited public transit offerings.
Additional Resources
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