Best Mckinney to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Mckinney to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 900 mile move from Texas to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 48 Mckinney 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 King Moving Company), 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 Mckinney 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 Mckinney to Chicago Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1King Moving Company9.539.38Authorized For HHGContact
2Evolution Moving Company9.489.49Authorized For HHGContact
3606 Movers, Inc.9.369.27Authorized For Property, HHGContact
4Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHGContact
5Little Guys Movers Denton9.108.89Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Mckinney to Chicago

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 900 miles from Mckinney, TX to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,547 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Mckinney to Chicago move is roughly $6,115. 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$1,713300 ft³5.71
1 Bedroom$2,547450 ft³5.66
2 Bedrooms$4,207750 ft³5.61
3 Bedrooms$6,1151100 ft³5.56
4 Bedrooms$8,8141600 ft³5.51
5+ Bedrooms$9,8261800 ft³5.46
*Please note: These Texas to Illinois moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Texas & 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 TX to IL mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Mckinney guide.

Compare the 5 Best Mckinney to Chicago Movers

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

King Moving Company Logo

King Moving Company

Exceptional9.53/10
based on 3,200+ data points

6632 Shadow Crest Dr

Plano, TX, 75093

About King Moving Company

Established way back in 1995 as a moving company that specialized in moving antiques and decorative items for different antique malls...

Services

  • Local and long-distance moving
  • Moving antiques and high-value items
  • Household moving (houses and apartments)

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1933649 / 755801

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers10
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2024)
View Full Review
1
Evolution Moving Company Logo

Evolution Moving Company

Exceptional9.48/10
based on 3,805+ data points

11884 Grenville Ave #100A

Dallas, TX, 75243

About Evolution Moving Company

Founded in 2013 in New Braunfels, Evolution Moving Company has expanded its professional moving and storage business to Dallas, Fort Worth,...

Services

  • Long Distance Moving
  • Labor Only
  • Residential Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/23/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2467590 / 1239409

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved10 (2021)
View Full Review
2
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
3
Move-tastic! Logo

Move-tastic!

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 10,649+ 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
4
Little Guys Movers Denton Logo

Little Guys Movers Denton

Exceptional9.10/10
based on 462+ data points

2201 Fort Worth Dr

Denton, TX, 76205

About Little Guys Movers Denton

With more than 25 years of experience in the moving and relocation industry, Little Guys Movers is not your average mover....

Services

  • Long Distance Moving
  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

880583 / 689082

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans52
Registered Drivers80
Total Annual Miles Moved667,000 (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.

Mckinney vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to an unfamiliar city can be intimidating. To ease this transition, we’ve prepared a guide that compares local neighborhoods between McKinney, TX & Chicago, IL . By pinpointing similarities, we aim to help you find a piece of home in a new city and make the comparison process as smooth as possible.

MckinneyChicagoHow They're Similar
Stonebridge RanchLincoln ParkFamily-friendly, green spaces
Adriatica VillageAndersonvilleUnique European vibe
Tucker HillRavenswoodHistoric homes, community feel
Historic DowntownWicker ParkBustling, artsy scene
Auburn HillsRoscoe VillageQuiet, family-oriented
Craig RanchWest LoopTrendy urban living
Eldorado Country ClubBucktownVibrant nightlife, upscale
Hardin LakeLakeviewBeautiful lake views, vibrant community
Mallard LakesHyde ParkDiverse, intellectual vibe
WestridgeLincoln SquareHistorical, cozy atmosphere

For those familiar with the charming and expansive green spaces of Stonebridge Ranch in McKinney, Lincoln Park in Chicago will feel like a seamless transition with its widespread parks and family-friendly atmosphere. Similarly, if Adriatica Village’s unique European flair captures your heart, Andersonville’s distinct vibe, with beloved local spots like Swedish American Museum, will enchant you. On the other hand, Tucker Hill's tight-knit community and historical homes find a parallel in Ravenswood, where engaging community events and historic architecture, like the residences lining the boulevards, draw comparisons. Wicker Park and Historic Downtown McKinney share a vibrancy and artsy scene, with local favorites like The 606 echoing McKinney’s diverse and dynamic cultural blend. These comparisons not only highlight architectural and atmospherical similarities but also pinpoint the essence of neighborhood living from dining to recreation, ensuring you find a new Chicago neighborhood that resonates with your lifestyle.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Mckinney to Chicago

Moving from McKinney, TX to Chicago, IL involves weighing the advantages against the drawbacks of such a change. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of this relocation to help you make an informed decision. Understanding how certain aspects will improve or become more challenging can guide your preparation and expectations.

CONs
PROs
Mckinney, TX iconMckinney, TX
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Less public transportation
  • Lower walkability
  • Hotter summers
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Diverse cultural experiences
  • Extensive public transit
  • High walkability
  • Cooler summers
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher cost of living
  • Smaller living spaces
  • Colder winters
  • More traffic congestion
Mckinney, TX iconMckinney, TX
  • Lower cost of living
  • Spacious living
  • Warmer winters
  • Less traffic congestion

While moving from McKinney, TX, to Chicago, IL, presents a shift in lifestyle, it also opens up a realm of new experiences. Chicago's diverse cultural scene is vibrant, with landmark institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago and renowned events like the Chicago Air and Water Show. The city's extensive public transit system, including the 'L' train, makes navigating the bustling metropolis a breeze, contrasting McKinney's reliance on cars. Neighborhoods like Lincoln Park offer lush green spaces, such as the Lincoln Park itself, and the culinary scene is second to none, with iconic restaurants like Giordano's serving deep-dish pizza that's become synonymous with the city. While the cost of living and winter chill might take some adjustment, the architectural marvels, lakefront beauty, and dynamic ambiance of Chicago present an exciting new chapter for those relocating from McKinney.

Mckinney vs. Chicago Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between McKinney & Chicago to offer insights into how food reflects the culture and lifestyle of a place. Illustrating the culinary diversity and signature dishes, this overview is crafted to help you understand what gastronomic delights await you in your new home city.

MckinneyChicago
Most iconic local food itemTexas BBQDeep-Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dishBrisketItalian Beef Sandwich
Most popular street food itemTacosHot Dogs (Chicago-style)
Most popular vegan foodVeggie Tex-MexDeep-Dish Vegan Pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Local Yocal
  • Harvest
  • Ernesto's
  • Giordano's
  • Lou Malnati’s
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In both McKinney and Chicago, the local cuisine offers a compelling insight into each city's culture. Chicago is renowned for its deep-dish pizza, with places like Giordano's and Lou Malnati’s serving as quintessential experiences for anyone wanting to taste the city's iconic dish. McKinney, embracing its Texan roots, offers unparalleled Texas BBQ and brisket at locales such as Local Yocal. Both cities cater to health-conscious and vegan diners, with Chicago slightly ahead in its vegan offerings, reflective of its larger, diverse population and forward-thinking culinary scene. For food lovers, Chicago's rich, diverse food scene from its world-class restaurants to its vibrant street food, provides an exciting gastronomic journey. Meanwhile, McKinney's blend of traditional Texan flavors and modern culinary innovation offers a unique and comforting dining experience.

Mckinney vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great food spots that remind you of home. This restaurant comparison is designed to ease your transition from McKinney, TX to Chicago, IL, by matching your favorite McKinney eateries with their Chicago counterparts. Let this guide be your roadmap to finding your new favorite restaurants, making Chicago feel like home .

MckinneyChicagoWhat You'll Love
HarvestavecRustic, farm-to-table dining experience
Local Yocal BBQ & GrillSmoque BBQAuthentic, low-and-slow barbecue
RyeThe PublicanEmphasis on heirloom pork and seafood
Cadillac Pizza PubPequod’s PizzaKnown for its caramelized crust
Hutchins BBQLillie’s QTraditional Southern barbecue with unique sauces
LayeredWildberry Pancakes and CafeBoth excel in breakfast offerings, particularly pancakes
Sugarbacon Proper KitchenGilt BarCreative American fare in a trendy setting
Snug on the SquareIntelligentsia CoffeeBoth have a cozy, welcoming ambiance
Butcher BoardPublican Quality MeatsBoth are butcher shops with outstanding sandwiches
E.J. Wills GastropubThe HopleafBoth offer an extensive beer selection and elevated pub food

For those who treasure the unique BBQ flavors from Local Yocal BBQ & Grill in McKinney, Smoque BBQ in Chicago will become your next go-to spot, serving up equally authentic, smoked meats that melt in your mouth. Those mornings when you crave the homely vibes and hearty breakfast of Layered can find solace in Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe, where pancakes are turned into an art form, promising comfort in each bite. And for the nights when only the comforting ambiance and finely crafted beers of E.J. Wills Gastropub will do, The Hopleaf awaits in Chicago, ready to envelop you in its warm atmosphere while offering a beer selection that's bound to impress even the most discerning enthusiast.

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Ready to start your move?

Mckinney vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly factors into relocation decisions, making it crucial to understand how McKinney, TX, and Chicago, IL compare in this regard. This comparison aims to highlight the key aspects of housing, including cost and lifestyle components.

ComparisonMckinneyChicago
Typical Architecture StyleTraditional & RanchModern & Historic
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious Yards, Community ParksLake Views, Proximity to Public Transit

Comparing McKinney and Chicago in terms of housing reveals intriguing contrasts and offerings. In McKinney, homes are generally more expensive to buy, yet renting can be more affordable than in Chicago. McKinney's housing style leans towards traditional and ranch, reflecting its more suburban feel, while Chicago's rich history is mirrored in its architecture, showcasing a blend of modern and historic styles. Another noteworthy difference is the urban lifestyle score, with Chicago ranking higher due to its vibrant city life, underscored by superior walkability and bikeability. This urban advantage extends to real estate listings in Chicago, often emphasizing lake views and proximity to public transit, contrasting with McKinney's focus on spacious yards and community parks. These differences underscore the distinctive living experiences offered by each city, tailored to diverse preferences and lifestyle needs.

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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.

Mckinney vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

When planning your move from McKinney, TX to Chicago, IL, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust your expectations and prepare for McKinney's warmer, sunny climate versus Chicago's cooler, more varied weather conditions .

Summer icon
94°F / 73°F

Mckinney, TX

82°F / 63°F

Chicago, IL

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57°F / 35°F

Mckinney, TX

32°F / 18°F

Chicago, IL

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40.6"

Mckinney, TX

36"

Chicago, IL

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
1"

Mckinney, TX

36"

Chicago, IL

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonMckinneyChicago
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersTornadoes, HailSnowstorms, Extreme Cold
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

McKinney boasts warmer summers and milder winters compared to Chicago's colder climate, meaning you'll need to adjust your wardrobe and possibly your lifestyle. Chicago experiences more varied seasons, from hot summers to freezing winters with significant snowfall—quite a departure from McKinney's rare snowy days. Additionally, while both cities have their unique natural disaster risks, from McKinney's tornadoes to Chicago's snowstorms, it's vital to prepare for Chicago's extreme cold and more frequent snowy conditions. Adapting to Chicago's weather may take some time, but being prepared will make the transition smoother.

Ready to start your move?

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

When moving from one city to another, it's crucial to grasp the financial adjustments you'll face. McKinney, TX to Chicago, IL cost of living and economy comparison serves this purpose, guiding you on what to expect in terms of your wallet's well-being in your new home.

ComparisonMckinneyChicago
Avg. Household Income$98,317$66,576
Cost of Living Index91.1116.9
State Income Tax0%4.95%
Avg. Property Tax1.9%2.1%
Avg. Sales Tax8.25%10.25%
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Retail, HealthcareFinance, Manufacturing, Information Technology
AffluenceHighModerate to High
PovertyLowModerate
HomelessnessMinimalModerate

Looking closely, you'll see McKinney boasts a notably higher average household income compared to Chicago, which may balance out the slightly lower cost of living index you'll encounter in McKinney. The absence of state income tax in Texas is a significant financial benefit for residents, as opposed to the nearly 5% state income tax in Illinois. Conversely, Chicago presents a diversified economy with strongholds in finance and IT sectors, offering a variety of job opportunities. Understanding these differences will help you navigate your financial planning and lifestyle adjustments as you make this significant move.

Mckinney vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

When moving from McKinney, TX to Chicago, IL, it's pivotal to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison of the politics and religious makeup between McKinney & Chicago offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to help you grasp the cultural and ideological landscapes of your current and future home.

MckinneyChicago
Political Make-upConservative-leaningLiberal-leaning
Local PoliticsRepublican dominanceDemocratic stronghold
ReligionChristian majority, with several churchesDiverse religious landscape, including churches, synagogues, and mosques

In McKinney, TX, the political atmosphere is predominantly conservative, with local governance frequently aligning with Republican values. This is contrasted strongly by Chicago's liberal-leaning populace and Democratic governance. Such political landscapes greatly influence local policies, community programs, and social attitudes. Religiously, McKinney hosts a Christian majority with ample places of worship, indicative of the broader Texan religious culture. Chicago, in contrast, offers a more diverse religious experience, reflecting its melting pot character. This diversity extends to the myriad of churches, synagogues, mosques, and other places of worship across the city, highlighting a broad spectrum of faiths and communities within its urban limits.

Mckinney vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from McKinney, TX, to Chicago, IL? This guide helps you understand the differences between driving and transiting in these cities. We've laid out a comprehensive comparison of the traffic and transportation options between McKinney & Chicago to give you a clearer picture of what your daily commute might look like.

ComparisonMckinneyChicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2934
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?DifficultEasier

In McKinney, your commute might be shorter, but you'll find it challenging to rely solely on public transportation. The city scores lower in terms of public transit availability, making a car almost a necessity for getting around. On the other hand, Chicago offers a more robust public transit system, recognized by its higher score. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) provides extensive bus and train services, making it considerably easier to navigate the city without a car. Although facing higher traffic congestion, Chicago's commitment to public transit and walkable neighborhoods means you can enjoy a more flexible lifestyle when it comes to your daily commute.

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