Best Memphis to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Memphis to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 533 mile move from Tennessee to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 47 Memphis 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 Memphis 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 Memphis 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 | Garrett's Hauling | 8.79 | 8.8 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Country Club Moving & Packing Inc. | 8.60 | 9.31 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC | 8.56 | 8.38 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Memphis to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 533 miles from Memphis, TN to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,234 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Memphis to Chicago move is roughly $5,352. 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 | $1,505 | 300 ft³ | 5.02 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,234 | 450 ft³ | 4.97 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,687 | 750 ft³ | 4.92 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,352 | 1100 ft³ | 4.87 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,705 | 1600 ft³ | 4.82 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,578 | 1800 ft³ | 4.77 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Memphis guide.
Compare the 5 Best Memphis 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) |
Garrett's Hauling
Gallaway, TN, 38036
About Garrett's Hauling
Garrett's Hauling, a recently established moving company in 2021, is based in Cordova, Tennessee, and offers moving services in Cordova, Germantown,...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3819914 / 1381892 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
Country Club Moving & Packing Inc.
691 Crestover Dr
Collierville, TN, 38017
About Country Club Moving & Packing Inc.
Country Club Moving and Packing Inc. is a family-owned moving company that has been providing high-quality, low-price moves since 1994 in...
Services
- Local and Long Distance Moving
- Whole House Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1552549 / 576653 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2023) |
Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC
3456 Christy Ln
Bartlett, TN, 38135
About Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC
Polk's Reliable Delivery Services, LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Bartlett, TN, with over 14 years of experience in...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3797931 / 1365852 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2021) |
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.
Memphis vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can feel like stepping into the unknown, especially when it's between cities as vibrant and diverse as Memphis, TN, and Chicago, IL. To ease the transition, we're here to help you find your bearings by comparing local neighborhoods between Memphis, TN & Chicago, IL. This guide aims to match you with a Chicago neighborhood that mirrors the community you love back in Memphis, making the Windy City feel like home.
| Memphis | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Wicker Park | Artsy, vibrant nightlife |
| East Memphis | Lincoln Park | Affluent, green spaces |
| Downtown | The Loop | Urban, heart of the city |
| Cooper-Young | Logan Square | Bohemian, historic homes |
| Germantown | Gold Coast | Upscale, suburban feel |
| Collierville | Andersonville | Family-friendly, charming |
| South Main | River North | Trendy, art galleries |
| Berclair | Portage Park | Diverse, community-oriented |
| Cordova | Edgewater | Waterfront, eclectic |
| Mud Island | Navy Pier | Waterfront attractions, lively |
For those enchanted by the artsy and vibrant nightlife of Midtown Memphis, Wicker Park in Chicago will resonate with you for its eclectic art scene and lively bars. Similarly, if you appreciate the upscale, yet suburban feel of Germantown, you'll find Gold Coast's luxurious ambiance coupled with its picturesque residential areas a perfect match. Andersonville, resembling Collierville, offers a family-friendly environment but with a distinct Chicago charm—think quaint boutiques and cozy cafés like Lost Larson for a weekend brunch. Meanwhile, Downtown Memphis lovers will be captivated by The Loop's urban vibe, where iconic sights like The Art Institute of Chicago and Millennium Park's Cloud Gate sculpture await your exploration.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Memphis to Chicago
Moving from one city to another offers a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to present an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Memphis, TN to Chicago, IL . By contrasting the pros and cons, individuals can make a well-informed decision about their upcoming move.
Memphis, TN- Higher crime rates
- Hot, humid summers
- Less public transportation options
- Smaller cultural scene
- Fewer job opportunities
Chicago, IL- Lower crime rates in selected neighborhoods
- Milder summers
- Extensive public transit system
- Rich cultural experiences
- Greater job market
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- Less personal atmosphere
- Can feel overwhelming
- Different culinary scene
- Denser living conditions
Memphis, TN- Lower cost of living
- Warm, friendly community
- Close-knit neighborhoods
- Barbecue cuisine
- Spacious living
Choosing between Memphis and Chicago entails considering various factors such as climate, community, and lifestyle. Chicago's diverse neighborhoods, like the vibrant Wicker Park or the culturally rich Hyde Park, offer unique experiences, from eclectic dining at Big Star to historical explorations at the Museum of Science and Industry. Although Memphis boasts a warmer community feel with its famous barbecue spots like Central BBQ, Chicago's vast culinary landscape and job market might appeal more to those seeking variety and professional growth. The decision heavily depends on individual preferences, prioritizing either a close-knit community and comfort or broader opportunities and urban experiences.
Memphis vs. Chicago Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Memphis & Chicago sheds light on food's pivotal role in local culture and what living in each area might taste like. Whether you're a food connoisseur or simply enjoy exploring local eats, this guide will help you navigate the culinary scenes of your new home.
| Memphis | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Barbecue ribs | Deep-dish pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled pork | Italian beef |
| Most popular street food item | Barbecue nachos | Chicago-style hot dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Jerk tofu | Seitan wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
While Memphis is renowned for its succulent barbecue ribs and pulled pork, highlighting the city's deep roots in the barbecue domain, Chicago contrasts with its legendary deep-dish pizza and Italian beef. If you're moving to Chicago, exploring neighborhoods like the West Loop or Wicker Park will introduce you to a vibrant food scene where you can savor these local specialties. Chicago's food trucks and vegan options are more abundant, reflecting the city's diverse culinary landscape. Be sure to visit iconic institutions like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria for a quintessential taste of the city, or if plant-based dining aligns more with your palette, the variety in vegan-friendly establishments will please.
Memphis vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison is designed to make your transition easier, helping you find new favorite eateries from Memphis, TN moving to Chicago, IL, by mapping out similar dining experiences. Whether you're craving a gourmet meal or a casual bite, you'll find your next go-to spot.
| Memphis | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Flight Restaurant & Wine Bar | Eno Wine Bar | High-end, intimate wine dining experience. |
| Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken | Harold's Chicken Shack | Iconic fried chicken, deep Chicago roots. |
| Central BBQ | Smoque BBQ | Authentic, award-winning BBQ flavors. |
| Hog & Hominy | Avec | Southern European-inspired cuisine, innovative dishes. |
| The Beauty Shop Restaurant | Gilt Bar | Eclectic, trendy eats in a chic atmosphere. |
| Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen | Sapori Trattoria | Cozy, authentic Italian dining. |
| Bryant's Breakfast | Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe | Breakfast all day, local favorite. |
| Rendezvous | Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern | Historic spot for ribs and comfort food. |
| Uncle Lou's Fried Chicken | Luella’s Southern Kitchen | Southern comfort with a twist. |
| Railgarten Diner | Longman & Eagle | Hip diner offering creative American fare. |
Memphians accustomed to the unique flavors of Central BBQ will feel right at home at Smoque BBQ in Chicago, where the dedication to authentic BBQ dishes and a deep appreciation for smoked meats echo Central BBQ's celebrated offerings. Meanwhile, fans of the creative and engulfing atmosphere at The Beauty Shop Restaurant might find themselves drawn to Gilt Bar in Chicago, where the chic and eclectic ambiance pairs wonderfully with the innovative cuisine. And for those missing the heartwarming Southern comfort food of Uncle Lou's Fried Chicken, Luella’s Southern Kitchen is ready to welcome you with open arms and dishes that speak to the soul, offering a twist on the classic flavors that are reminiscent of Memphis's own culinary traditions.
Ready to start your move?
Memphis vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly influences the decision-making process when moving. It's imperative to understand how the housing markets of Memphis, TN and Chicago, IL compare in terms of cost, architecture, and lifestyle. This comparison aims to clarify these aspects for a more informed relocation.
| Comparison | Memphis | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Ranch | Modern, Georgian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, quiet neighborhoods | Lake views, proximity to public transport |
When comparing the housing markets of Memphis and Chicago, you'll notice stark contrasts in prices and lifestyle. Memphis offers more affordable housing options, with its real estate listings often highlighting spacious yards and tranquil neighborhoods ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. On the other hand, Chicago's higher median home and rent prices buy you access to a vibrant urban lifestyle, characterized by modern architecture, lake views, and an excellent public transportation system. The city's better walkability and bikeability scores are indicative of a lifestyle that caters to convenience and accessibility, highly valued by those who prefer city living.
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.
Memphis vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather in Memphis and Chicago will differ. This comparison aims to highlight these variations, helping you adjust to your new climate seamlessly.
Memphis, TN
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Memphis, TN
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Memphis, TN
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Memphis, TN
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Memphis | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate to Poor |
| Natural Disasters | Floods, Tornadoes | Snowstorms, Cold Waves |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Looking at weather differences, the transition from Memphis to Chicago offers a notable change, particularly in winter temperatures and snowfall. In Chicago, you'll need to prepare for colder winters with more snow, affecting both daily life and wardrobe choices. While Chicago enjoys a milder summer, it compensates with less sunshine annually and harsher winters. The annual UV index is lower in Chicago, providing a slight reprieve during the sunny months. Adjusting to these changes will be crucial for a smooth transition to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Memphis to Chicago
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the financial implications of such a transition. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in cost of living, taxes, and economic opportunities between Memphis and Chicago, providing a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of finances.
| Comparison | Memphis | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $44,317 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 88.2 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.97 | 2.12 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Shipping, Health Services, Manufacturing | Finance, Technology, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Concerning |
In a move from Memphis to Chicago, you'll face a notable increase in the cost of living, driven in part by higher taxes and property costs. Despite this, moving to Chicago offers financial perks, including a higher average household income and robust job opportunities, especially in finance and tech sectors. Meanwhile, although both cities grapple with issues of poverty and homelessness, the economic landscape in Chicago could present more diverse pathways for financial stability and growth.
Memphis vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
This guide offers a quick comparison of the political and religious makeup between Memphis, TN & Chicago, IL , providing a glimpse into the character and culture you'll encounter after your move. This will help you understand the local dynamics and community you're about to become a part of.
| Memphis | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on social equity and education | Emphasis on public health and housing |
| Religion | Highly religious, predominantly Christian | Diverse religious landscape |
Both Memphis and Chicago predominantly lean Democratic, but the political atmosphere and priorities show distinct flavors in each city. Memphis places a significant focus on social equity and education reforms, reflective of its historical and social context. Meanwhile, Chicago's political scene is heavily inclined towards addressing public health issues and housing, suggesting how local governments prioritize urban challenges. Religion in Memphis is predominantly Christian, contributing to a city with a strong faith community. Chicago, on the other hand, boasts a diverse religious landscape, offering an array of religious communities and buildings, catering to a broad spectrum of beliefs and practices. This diversity is a cornerstone of Chicago's cultural identity, making it a welcoming city for people from various backgrounds.
Memphis vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Memphis, TN to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to understand how your daily commute might change. This guide endeavors to offer insight into the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Memphis & Chicago , helping you to navigate your new city with ease.
| Comparison | Memphis | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
In Memphis, you'll typically experience shorter commute times and less congestion compared to Chicago, indicating a smoother drive during peak hours. However, Chicago shines in its public transit availability, scoring significantly higher. This difference illustrates a crucial point: while a car might be nearly essential to navigate Memphis efficiently, you can comfortably rely on public transportation in Chicago. The diversity in Chicago's transit options, from buses to the 'L' train system, not only facilitates easier daily commutes but also helps in reducing the city's carbon footprint. This dynamic may take some adjustment if you're accustomed to driving everywhere, but it also opens up a new way of experiencing city life, where walking, biking, and hopping on a train become part of your everyday routine.
Additional Resources
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