Best Chattanooga to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Chattanooga to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 602 mile move from Tennessee to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 41 Chattanooga 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 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga 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 | Boundless Moving & Storage | 9.33 | 9.36 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Smooth Moving & Storage | 8.93 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Piano Movers Plus | 8.83 | 8.17 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chattanooga to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 602 miles from Chattanooga, TN to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,293 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chattanooga to Chicago move is roughly $5,495. 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 | $1,544 | 300 ft³ | 5.15 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,293 | 450 ft³ | 5.10 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,784 | 750 ft³ | 5.05 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,495 | 1100 ft³ | 5.00 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,913 | 1600 ft³ | 4.95 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,813 | 1800 ft³ | 4.90 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Chattanooga guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chattanooga 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) |
Boundless Moving & Storage
5595 N. Lee Hwy
Cleveland, TN, 37312
About Boundless Moving & Storage
Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2798532 / 934519 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 358,520 (2022) |
Smooth Moving & Storage
3620 Trousdale Dr
Nashville, TN, 37204
About Smooth Moving & Storage
Smooth Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering professional, reliable, and stress-free moving...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Residential moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2472874 / 1244900 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2023) |
Piano Movers Plus
3889 Hixson Pike
Chattanooga, TN, 37415
About Piano Movers Plus
Piano Movers Plus is a locally owned and operated moving company based in Chattanooga, TN, serving the surrounding cities such as...
Services
- Damage free piano moving
- Hard to move items moving
- Household moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 849413 / 393793 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 184,000 (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.
Chattanooga vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local communities. This guide aims to help you acclimate by comparing popular Chattanooga, TN neighborhoods with their most similar counterparts in Chicago, IL. By looking at comparable neighborhoods between Chattanooga, TN & Chicago, IL , you'll find a new home that feels familiar.
| Chattanooga | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| North Shore | Andersonville | Artsy vibe, independent shops |
| St. Elmo | Hyde Park | Rich history, vibrant community |
| Southside | West Loop | Trendy eateries, industrial chic |
| Downtown | The Loop | Cultural heart, major attractions |
| Highland Park | Rogers Park | Diverse population, community focus |
| Signal Mountain | Lincoln Park | Scenic parks, family-friendly |
| Lookout Mountain | Gold Coast | Upscale living, stunning views |
| East Brainerd | Lakeview | Dense residential, vibrant nightlife |
| Red Bank | Edgewater | Waterfront leisure, diverse dining |
| Hixson | Old Town | Historic architecture, modern amenities |
When you move from Chattanooga’s North Shore, with its love for art and independent businesses, you’ll find a similar spirit in Chicago's Andersonville. Here, unique boutiques and Swedish heritage make it a delightful neighborhood for anyone appreciating local charm and a tight-knit community feel. If the historical vibrance of St. Elmo captured your heart, you will be enamored with Hyde Park in Chicago, where the richness of history resonates through landmarks like the Museum of Science and Industry and the University of Chicago. Those drawn to the Southside's trendy eateries and artistic scene in Chattanooga will find their match in Chicago's West Loop, home to some of the city's most innovative restaurants and chic galleries amid repurposed industrial buildings. Moreover, if the outdoor appeal and family-friendly atmosphere of Signal Mountain are what you're leaving behind, Lincoln Park in Chicago will welcome you with open arms, offering expansive green spaces, the Lincoln Park Zoo, and scenic lake views.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chattanooga to Chicago
Moving from one city to another can be a challenging decision, filled with various considerations. This guide aims to draw a parallel between Chattanooga, TN, and Chicago, IL , highlighting the good and the bad attributes of such a relocation. By considering both the advantages and disadvantages, you can make a more informed decision about this significant change.
Chattanooga, TN- Smaller job market
- Less cultural events
- Fewer public transit options
- Lower diversity
- Quieter nightlife
Chicago, IL- Larger job opportunities
- Rich cultural scene
- Extensive public transit
- Highly diverse
- Vibrant nightlife
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- Denser population
- Less green space
- More traffic
- Faster-paced lifestyle
Chattanooga, TN- Lower cost of living
- Close-knit community
- Access to nature
- Less traffic congestion
- Relaxed pace
When moving from Chattanooga to Chicago, you're transitioning from a smaller, nature-oriented community to a bustling, culturally rich city. Chicago's diverse culinary scene, for instance, offers everything from Alinea's innovative dishes to the deep-dish pizzas of Giordano's. The city's extensive public transportation system, including the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), makes navigating this larger city manageable and affordable. While Chattanooga offers a sense of community and a quieter way of life close to nature, Chicago's vibrant neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and The Magnificent Mile present endless entertainment, dining, and cultural learning opportunities. However, it's essential to consider the higher cost of living and denser population, which contribute to a different lifestyle pace and potentially more everyday challenges like traffic. Embracing such changes requires adjustment, but the payoff can be a rich urban living experience interwoven with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Chattanooga vs. Chicago Food Guide
When moving to a new city, immersing yourself in the local food scene is a delicious way to connect with your new home. Food is a significant aspect of local culture and lifestyle. Therefore, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Chattanooga & Chicago to help you understand the gastronomic delights awaiting you in your new city.
| Chattanooga | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Hot Chicken | Deep-Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork BBQ | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Trucks | Chicago-Style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit BBQ | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Chicago, the food landscape is diverse, much like its neighborhoods. Deep-dish pizza is nearly synonymous with the city, best enjoyed at iconic spots like Lou Malnati's. For a taste of upscale dining, Alinea offers a unique gastronomic experience that encapsulates Chicago's innovative culinary scene. The street food isn't to be missed either, with Chicago-style hot dogs being a must-try for anyone new to the city. As a health and fitness conscious city, Chicago's vegan scene is thriving, offering a wide array of options ranging from seitan wings to creative plant-based dishes.
Chattanooga vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help bridge the gap between Chattanooga and Chicago, guiding you to your next favorite eateries based on your current preferences. Dive into this culinary map to ease your transition and explore familiar tastes in your new locale.
| Chattanooga | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alleia | Monteverde | Both offer a modern take on Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, artisanal ingredients. |
| Hennen's | Swift & Sons | Upscale steakhouses that deliver on both ambiance and top-quality meats. |
| Easy Bistro & Bar | The Publican | Both specialize in refined American bistro fare with a focus on seafood and locally sourced ingredients. |
| Taco Mamacita | Big Star | Both spots offer a vibrant, energetic atmosphere perfect for enjoying innovative tacos and margaritas. |
| Main Street Meats | Publican Quality Meats | Both are highly regarded for their butcher shops and serve excellent sandwiches and meats. |
| St. John's Restaurant | Alinea | For those seeking a high-end dining experience, both restaurants are known for their exceptional cuisine and service, though Alinea takes a more avant-garde approach. |
| Uncle Larry's Restaurant | Honey Butter Fried Chicken | Both are beloved for their delicious, comforting fried chicken dishes in a casual setting. |
| Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar | Shaw's Crab House | If you're a fan of seafood and scenic views, both restaurants offer a fantastic selection and atmosphere. |
| Terminal Brewhouse | Revolution Brewing | Craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate the selection of house-made beers and hearty pub fare at both. |
| Frothy Monkey | The Wormhole Coffee | For a casual coffeehouse experience with great drinks and a cozy atmosphere, both are local favorites. |
Exploring new cuisines while reminiscing about the flavors of home can be a delightful journey. Monteverde in Chicago mirrors the exquisite modern Italian dishes found in Alleia, with both kitchens prioritizing inventive recipes and artisanal ingredients. Fans of refined cuts will appreciate Swift & Sons in Chicago as much as they cherished Hennen's in Chattanooga, offering a posh ambiance for steak lovers. And for those casual outgoings with a craving for sumptuously breaded poultry, the transition from Uncle Larry's Restaurant to Honey Butter Fried Chicken will feel seamless, promising comfort food in a laid-back setting that echoes the warmth of Southern hospitality amid the bustling Chicago cityscape.
Ready to start your move?
Chattanooga vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a critical consideration for anyone planning a move, making it essential to understand how Chattanooga, TN , and Chicago, IL , compare in this aspect. This comparison aims to enlighten you on the differences in housing costs, architectural styles, and the overall urban lifestyle between these two cities.
| Comparison | Chattanooga | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Craftsman | Modern and Historic Greystone |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Large yards, mountain views | Lake views, access to public transportation |
When comparing Chattanooga and Chicago, you'll find that each city offers a unique blend of housing features and lifestyle. For instance, the median home price in Chattanooga is notably lower than in Chicago, offering more affordable options for homebuyers. Chattanooga's housing landscape is marked by Victorian and Craftsman-style homes that often come with large yards and scenic mountain views, which could be ideal for you if you favor space and nature. On the other hand, Chicago boasts a more urban lifestyle with a higher walkability score, attributable to its dense architecture of modern buildings and historic Greystones. Here, you're more likely to find properties boasting access to Lake Michigan views and unparalleled public transportation. This urban atmosphere could be more your style if you thrive in bustling city environments and value accessibility to various city amenities.
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.
Chattanooga vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move, understanding the weather differences between your current location and your new home is essential. This comparison between Chattanooga and Chicago will help you prepare for what to expect in terms of weather conditions in these two distinct cities.
Chattanooga, TN
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chattanooga, TN
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chattanooga, TN
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chattanooga, TN
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chattanooga | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Thunderstorms, Tornadoes | Snowstorms, Extreme Cold |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Chattanooga to Chicago, you'll find significant differences, particularly in winter conditions and annual snowfall. Chicago's winters are considerably colder, with a much higher average snowfall, challenging for those not accustomed to snowy conditions. While Chattanooga enjoys more days of sunshine and milder winters, Chicago offers a vibrant winter season that could be an adjustment but also an opportunity to enjoy winter sports and snowy landscapes. Adjusting to Chicago's climate might also include preparing for its higher humidity levels in summer and more pronounced seasonal allergies due to mold.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chattanooga to Chicago
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape in Chattanooga compares with Chicago. This understanding will help you adjust your budget and expectations accordingly.
| Comparison | Chattanooga | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $55,065 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91.1 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.37 | 2.12 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Transportation | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
| Poverty | Higher | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | Significant |
The comparative analysis highlights key financial differences between Chattanooga and Chicago. Chattanooga boasts a lower cost of living and no state income tax, which could be financially beneficial for some. However, Chicago, despite its higher cost of living and state income tax, offers a higher average household income and is considered more affluent, with more opportunities in high-paying industries such as finance and information technology. The choice between the two cities will heavily depend on your career path, financial goals, and adaptability to various living costs.
Chattanooga vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider transitioning from Chattanooga, TN, to Chicago, IL, it's essential to grasp a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This comparison will provide insights into the political and religious differences between Chattanooga & Chicago , helping you understand the community vibes of your current city versus your future home.
| Chattanooga | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Conservative | Lean Liberal |
| Local Politics | Historically Republican, with shifts towards more centrist views in recent elections | Strong Democratic majority, with progressive policies in city governance |
| Religion | Largely Christian, with numerous churches and religious organizations | Diverse religious landscape, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and others |
While Chattanooga has a lean towards conservative politics, with a prominent Christian population marked by its numerous churches, Chicago presents a contrast with its liberal majority and more progressive policies. The religious landscape in Chicago is markedly diverse, mirroring its comprehensive cultural diversity, hosting a rich tapestry of communities including Christian, Jewish, and Muslim, among others. This political and religious makeup contributes to the unique cultural identities of both cities, offering different experiences in community life and public affairs. As you move, understanding these differences can help you better integrate and appreciate the distinct vibes of your new home.
Chattanooga vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chattanooga, TN to Chicago, IL means adapting to new daily commutes and understanding the traffic and transportation options between Chattanooga & Chicago. This comparison aims to help you grasp what to expect as you transition from driving or transiting in Chattanooga to navigating Chicago's bustling streets and public transit system.
| Comparison | Chattanooga | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | No | Yes |
In Chattanooga, the lower traffic congestion levels mean you're less likely to face the daily gridlocks common in larger cities. However, its public transit system is relatively limited, making it challenging to rely solely on public transportation. In contrast, Chicago's robust public transit system, including CTA buses and trains, Metra rail, and Pace buses, scores high, offering convenient alternatives to driving. Given Chicago's higher traffic congestion, taking advantage of these public transit options can significantly ease your daily commute, showcasing a city where you can comfortably live without a car. Understanding these differences will help you better prepare for your new life in Chicago, whether it involves navigating rush hour traffic or planning your route on the L train.
Additional Resources
Chattanooga Moving Services
Popular Chattanooga to Illinois Routes
Popular Moving Resources
