Best Austin to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Austin to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,156 mile move from Texas to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 50 Austin 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 MoverTron Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Austin 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 Austin to Chicago Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | MoverTron Moving | 9.44 | 9.52 | 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 | Heavenly Moving and Storage | 9.29 | 9.38 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Amen Moving | 9.20 | 9.52 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Austin to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,156 miles from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,764 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Austin to Chicago move is roughly $6,647. 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 | $1,858 | 300 ft³ | 6.19 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,764 | 450 ft³ | 6.14 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,570 | 750 ft³ | 6.09 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,647 | 1100 ft³ | 6.04 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,589 | 1600 ft³ | 5.99 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,697 | 1800 ft³ | 5.94 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Austin guide.
Compare the 5 Best Austin to Chicago Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
MoverTron Moving
Briarcliff, TX, 78669
Services
- Local Moving
- Residential Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4135479 / 1584479 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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) |
Heavenly Moving and Storage
This listing has been claimed by Heavenly Moving and Storage9311 N Fm 620
Austin, TX, 78726
About Heavenly Moving and Storage
Heavenly Moving and Storage has been one of Austin’s premier moving companies since 2005. This locally-owned moving company provides high-quality packing...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Full-service packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3429695 / 1110864 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 10 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 250,000 (2021) |
Amen Moving
Volente, TX, 78726
About Amen Moving
Amen Moving is a professional moving company based in Austin, TX. The company specializes in out of state moving and packing...
Services
- Out of state moving services
- Packing services
- Office moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3119927 / 87368 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 220,000 (2024) |
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.
Austin vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
When planning a move, getting to know your new city can feel like a daunting task. This guide aims to ease that transition by offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Austin, TX & Chicago, IL . By comparing popular neighborhoods in Austin to their Chicago equivalents, we hope to help you familiarize yourself with similar vibes, amenities, and community feels in your new city.
| Austin | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| South Congress | Wicker Park | Bohemian, trendy shops |
| Hyde Park | Hyde Park, Chicago | Both have rich history |
| Travis Heights | Logan Square | Vibrant, artsy community |
| Zilker | Lincoln Park | Green spaces, lively atmosphere |
| Tarrytown | Gold Coast | Upscale, historical homes |
| East Austin | Pilsen | Up-and-coming, artistic area |
| Barton Hills | Lakeview | Residential, close to parks |
| Westlake | Lincoln Square | Quiet, family-friendly |
| Cherrywood | Ravenswood | Relaxed, community-focused |
| Clarksville | Old Town | Historic, quaint shopping streets |
Each neighborhood comparison draws on unique characteristics that define the communities' atmospheres. For example, moving from South Congress in Austin to Wicker Park in Chicago means you won't have to give up your love for eclectic, bohemian vibes and trendy boutiques. Both neighborhoods boast a vibrant art scene, with Wicker Park hosting numerous galleries like the Flat Iron Arts Building. Similarly, Zilker in Austin and Lincoln Park in Chicago share a dedication to outdoor activities and green spaces, offering residents a break from city life with places like Zilker Botanical Garden and Lincoln Park Zoo. For a more upscale move, Tarrytown's charm and tranquil streets find a match in Chicago's Gold Coast, known for its historical mansions and proximity to the Magnificent Mile, enhancing the blend of luxury living with accessible city delights.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Austin to Chicago
Moving cities can be a daunting task, especially when it involves leaving behind the familiar for the unknown. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of moving from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL, highlighting both the challenges and the opportunities that come with such a relocation. Understanding the pros and cons will better equip you for making an informed decision.
Austin, TX- Hotter summers
- Less public transit
- Smaller job market
- Less dense
Chicago, IL- Cooler summers
- Extensive public transit
- Larger job market
- More urban
Chicago, IL- Colder winters
- Higher living costs
- Less green space
- More traffic
Austin, TX- Vibrant music scene
- Great Tex-Mex food
- Outdoor activities
- Friendly people
While the thought of colder winters in Chicago might seem daunting, the city offers a vibrant urban experience filled with cultural opportunities. Chicago's extensive public transit system, including the CTA, allows for easy exploration of neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Wicker Park, each brimming with unique restaurants, shops, and sightseeing opportunities. In the summer, the cooler climate invites residents to enjoy numerous outdoor festivals and Lake Michigan's beautiful beaches, a stark contrast to Austin's scorching heat. While Austin is known for its live music scene, Chicago holds its own with iconic venues like the Metro and annual events like the Lollapalooza festival, ensuring you won't miss out on high-quality entertainment. Transitioning from the laid-back atmosphere of Austin to Chicago's bustling urban environment will be a change, but one rich with new opportunities.
Austin vs. Chicago Food Guide
Understanding that food is an essential element of local culture, we aim to elucidate what living in a new city might taste like. Through a comparison of the local cuisine between Austin & Chicago , this guide looks to provide you with a deeper insight into the culinary scenes of both places, assisting in making your transition smoother.
| Austin | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Smoked Brisket | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Ribs | Italian Beef |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | BBQ Jackfruit | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Austin, the smell of smoked brisket and BBQ ribs fills the air, particularly in South Congress or East Austin, where food trucks reign supreme. Notable spots include Franklin Barbecue for a taste of the iconic brisket or Uchi for a more upscale dining experience that reflects Austin's diverse culinary scene. Conversely, Chicago's food scene is synonymous with deep-dish pizza and Italian beef. Neighborhoods like The Loop or River North house legendary establishments such as Lou Malnati's and Alinea, showcasing the deep culinary diversity and innovation. Both cities offer a vibrant foodie scene and a considerable selection of vegan options, reflecting their health and fitness conscientiousness.
Austin vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Food plays an essential role in making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Austin and Chicago aims to help you find your new favorite dining spots by drawing parallels with familiar eateries in your current city. Whether you're seeking high-end dining, casual bites, or the iconic flavors you've grown to love, this guide serves as your culinary compass during the transition.
| Austin | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Franklin Barbecue | Smoque BBQ | Celebrated for its authentic smoked meats and rich, flavorful sauces. |
| Uchi | Momotaro | Innovative Japanese dishes with a focus on sushi and a stylish interior. |
| Odd Duck | Publican Anker | Known for its farm-to-table approach and inventive American cuisine. |
| Torchy's Tacos | Big Star | Offers a similar laid-back vibe with high-quality tacos and margaritas. |
| Matt's El Rancho | Frontera Grill | Rick Bayless's flagship offering vibrant Mexican flavors in an upscale setting. |
| Home Slice Pizza | Pequod's Pizza | Known for its deep-dish pies with a caramelized crust that echoes the craftsmanship of Home Slice. |
| Barley Swine | Avec | Both places cherish the bond of food and community, boasting inventive small plates. |
| Kemuri Tatsu-Ya | Yusho | Japanese-inspired eats with a fun, experimental twist on the traditional. |
| Salt & Time | Publican Quality Meats | Renowned for its butcher shop and exquisite meat-centric dishes. |
| La Barbecue | Lillie's Q | Emulates the deep, smoky flavors and tender meats Texas barbecue is famous for. |
When the craving for barbecue hits, the smoky and succulent offerings at Smoque BBQ in Chicago ensure you don't miss what Franklin Barbecue serves up in Austin. Those who appreciate the intricacies of Japanese cuisine will find Momotaro in Chicago's vibrant dining scene a worthy counterpart to Austin's Uchi, with both establishments offering a deep dive into the art of sushi and beyond. And for those nights when only the comforting embrace of a pizza will do, Pequod's Pizza presents an unforgettable experience with its caramelized crust, mirroring the gourmet touch of Home Slice Pizza. Each dining destination provides not just a meal, but a narrative thread that connects the heart of Chicago with the soul of Austin.
Ready to start your move?
Austin vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, delving into the real estate landscape unveils critical insights. Here, we compare the essential housing traits of Austin, TX , and Chicago, IL , to guide your decision.
| Comparison | Austin | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Ranch | Brick and Brownstone |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Outdoor spaces, Open floor plans | Proximity to public transit, Hardwood floors |
Exploring the essence of Austin and Chicago's real estate, one can't help but notice their distinct characters. Austin's love for outdoor spaces reflects its residents' affinity for the outdoors, mirrored in its real estate listings that often highlight open floor plans and modern amenities. Conversely, Chicago's urban charm is encapsulated in its brick and brownstone structures, with listings frequently boasting about proximity to the city's extensive public transit system and charming hardwood floors. This stark contrast in housing and lifestyle offerings is pivotal for anyone contemplating a move to these vibrant cities.
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.
Austin vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, one crucial aspect to consider is how the weather will change. This comparison provides insight into what you can expect transitioning from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL. Understanding the differences in climate, sunshine, and natural phenomena is key to preparing for your new environment.
Austin, TX
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Austin, TX
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Austin, TX
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Austin, TX
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Austin | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Floods, Tornadoes | Blizzards, Extreme Cold |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Relocating from Austin to Chicago introduces stark contrasts in weather conditions. While both cities experience hot summers, Austin's are significantly hotter, peaking at around 95°F. However, Chicago winters are much harsher, with temperatures often dipping to 22°F, coupled with substantial snowfall, averaging 36 inches annually. Unlike Austin's 300 days of sunshine, Chicago sees fewer sunny days, which might be a considerable adjustment. Also noteworthy is Chicago's higher humidity and lower UV index level, indicating milder solar exposure but potentially more discomfort on humid days. Adapting to these changes will be crucial for a smooth transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Austin to Chicago
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how your finances might be impacted. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in cost of living, income, taxes, and economic health between Austin, TX, and Chicago, IL, to better prepare you for what to expect.
| Comparison | Austin | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,542 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.5 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 4.95% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.81% | 2.16% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.25% | 10.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Education, Health Services | Finance, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Varies widely |
| Poverty | Moderate | Significant |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
Moving from Austin to Chicago, you'll find a significantly different economic landscape. The average household income in Austin is higher, but it's also accompanied by a higher cost of living index. However, Texas benefits from having no state income tax, a factor that could considerably affect your take-home pay compared to Illinois' flat rate of 4.95%. Property and sales taxes are also lower in Austin. Industry-wise, both cities offer diverse opportunities but in different sectors, which might influence your career path. Understanding these financial nuances will help you make a well-informed decision tailored to your personal and professional needs.
Austin vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL, presents an opportunity to experience diverse communities with distinct political and religious landscapes. This comparison aims to provide a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Austin & Chicago, helping you understand the cultural shift you may encounter.
| Austin | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal-leaning | Liberal-leaning |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies in city governance | Strong Democratic influence in city governance |
| Religion | Religious diversity with a notable non-religious population | Religious diversity, strong Catholic presence |
While both Austin and Chicago lean liberal politically, their local politics showcase distinctive characteristics. Austin is known for its progressive stance on various policies, reflecting the city's open-minded and diverse ethos. Chicago, on the other hand, has a deeply embedded Democratic influence, shaped by its long history of Democratic governance. Religiously, both cities enjoy diversity, but Chicago has a notably strong Catholic presence, affecting everything from community events to school holidays. Moving from Austin to Chicago, you'll find that while some cultural aspects are similar, local nuances paint a unique social and political landscape.
Austin vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Making the move from Austin, TX to Chicago, IL? This guide is designed to help you better understand the daily commute and traffic differences between these vibrant cities. Stay ahead by familiarizing yourself with the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Austin & Chicago.
| Comparison | Austin | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 34 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
When considering the move from Austin to Chicago, it's crucial to understand how your daily commute might change. In Austin, where the average commute time is slightly shorter, traffic congestion is still a significant factor, albeit less so than in Chicago. However, Chicago outshines Austin in terms of public transit availability, thanks to its extensive CTA system, including buses and the 'L' train, making it easier to get around without a car. While Austin does have its own public transit system, it’s more car-dependent, and getting by without personal vehicle can be more challenging. This difference marks a significant shift in lifestyle for anyone moving from Austin to Chicago, particularly in terms of commuting and daily travel within the city.
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