Best Vancouver to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Vancouver to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,206 mile move from Washington to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 49 Vancouver 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 $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Vancouver 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 Vancouver 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 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.29 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Comfortable Moving | 9.15 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Vancouver to Chicago
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,206 miles from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL will cost on average $3,657 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Vancouver to Chicago move is roughly $8,830. 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 | $2,453 | 300 ft³ | 8.18 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,657 | 450 ft³ | 8.13 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,058 | 750 ft³ | 8.08 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,830 | 1100 ft³ | 8.03 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,763 | 1600 ft³ | 7.98 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,269 | 1800 ft³ | 7.93 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Vancouver guide.
Compare the 5 Best Vancouver 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) |
Northwest Grace Moving
19764 Cypresswood St
Oregon City, OR, 97045
About Northwest Grace Moving
Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1999959 / 755213 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |
All Service Moving
This listing has been claimed by All Service Moving66 SE Morrison St
Portland, OR, 97214
About All Service Moving
Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1863079 / 722865 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 80 |
| Registered Drivers | 113 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,186,786 (2022) |
Comfortable Moving
3305 Main St # 023
Vancouver, WA, 98663
About Comfortable Moving
Comfortable Moving is a family-owned and operated moving business providing residential and commercial moving services since 2017. Based in Vancouver, WA,...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3236736 / 1015844 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 14,000 (2020) |
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.
Vancouver vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
When considering a move, understanding how your new city compares to your current one can make the transition smoother. This guide helps you bridge that gap by comparing local neighborhoods between Vancouver, WA & Chicago, IL . Discover which Chicago neighborhoods mirror those in Vancouver, easing your search for a new home that feels familiar.
| Vancouver | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Fisher's Landing East | Lakeview | Vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere |
| Arnada | Wicker Park | Rich in local arts and eateries |
| Shumway | Lincoln Square | Quaint and quiet, with a strong community feel |
| Carter Park | Roscoe Village | Serene, with a small-town vibe within the city |
| Downtown Vancouver | The Loop | Heart of the city, abundant in shops and cultural spots |
| Felida | Sauganash | Suburban feel, known for spacious homes and greenery |
| Lincoln | Hyde Park | Rich historical backdrop with vibrant cultural institutions |
| Hough | Bucktown | Trendy with a mix of modern and traditional architecture |
| Esther Short | Old Town | Historic, with a strong sense of community and nightlife |
| Riveridge | Edgewater | Diverse, with lakeside views and cultural attractions |
Delving deeper into the comparison, if you adore the lively, family-centric environment of Fisher's Landing East, Chicago's Lakeview will captivate you with its similarly vibrant atmosphere and plethora of family-friendly parks and activities. Fans of the bustling street festivals and local arts scene in Arnada will find Wicker Park a perfect match with its rich cultural fabric and indie shops. Meanwhile, the quaint, laid-back charm of Shumway closely echoes in Lincoln Square, where community bonds are strong, and local cafes and bookshops abound. For those attracted to the urban buzz and convenience of Downtown Vancouver, The Loop in Chicago offers an even grander scale of urban living, surrounded by iconic theaters, parks, and art installations like Cloud Gate. Hence, transitioning from Vancouver, WA, to Chicago, IL, can be an exciting journey of discovering neighborhoods that not only resemble but potentially enhance the living experience you’ve cherished.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Vancouver to Chicago
Moving from one city to another brings a mixture of excitement and anxiety, as you weigh the pros against the cons. This comparison aims to give an honest reflection of both the good and the bad sides of relocating from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL. Understanding these aspects will help you make a more informed decision about your move.
Vancouver, WA- Smaller city vibe
- Less cultural diversity
- Lower job opportunities
- Less public transportation
- Fewer entertainment options
Chicago, IL- Larger, vibrant city
- More diverse culture
- Higher job market
- Extensive transit options
- Wider entertainment variety
Chicago, IL- More urban, less green
- More crowded
- Higher living cost
- Can feel overwhelming
- Harsher winters
Vancouver, WA- Close to nature
- Quieter lifestyle
- Lower living cost
- Smaller community feel
- Mild weather
Moving from Vancouver, WA, presents opportunities to dip into the vibrant culture and dynamic job market of Chicago, IL. However, it’s not without its trade-offs, such as adjusting from the mild Pacific Northwest climate to Chicago's harsher winters. In Chicago, neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Lincoln Park not only offer a variety of bars, restaurants like The Violet Hour, and sights such as the Lincoln Park Zoo but also showcase the city's architectural beauty and green spaces, albeit less expansive than Vancouver's natural surroundings. The transition from Vancouver's quieter, community-focused lifestyle to Chicago's bustling urban environment represents not only a change of scenery but an immersion into a city known for its rich history, diverse communities, and broad cultural offerings.
Vancouver vs. Chicago Food Guide
Food significantly shapes the local culture and living experience in any area. In our guide, we'll embark on a comparison of the local cuisine between Vancouver, WA and Chicago, IL to equip you with a deeper insight into the culinary scenes of your current and future cities. This will help you navigate and appreciate the diverse food options available.
| Vancouver | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Deep Dish Pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Grilled Salmon | Italian Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Food Truck Tacos | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Bowl | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Exploring Vancouver's and Chicago's food scenes reveals distinctive flavors inherent to each city. In Vancouver, the emphasis on salmon reflects the Pacific Northwest’s rich marine life. You'll find exceptional seafood dishes, especially grilled salmon, across waterfront restaurants, with Beachés Restaurant Cafe and The Grant House being prime examples. Meanwhile, Chicago holds a legendary status for its deep-dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches. The iconic Chicago-style hot dog, typically topped with a heap of garnishments, is a must-try street food. Restaurants like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria and Alinea epitomize the city's diverse and sophisticated culinary landscape. Whether you're moving from the lush surroundings of Vancouver to the bustling streets of Chicago, your palate is in for a delightful transition.
Vancouver vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Discovering local eateries plays a crucial role in feeling at home in a new city. This restaurant comparison will help bridge the gap between Vancouver and Chicago , guiding you towards finding your next favorite dining spots based on your Vancouver go-tos. Whether you're after high-end dining, a casual bite, or something uniquely foodie, this comparison will ease your culinary transition.
| Vancouver | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| The Diner Vancouver | Lou Mitchell's | Iconic diner experience |
| Beaches Restaurant & Bar | Shaw's Crab House | Seafood and great views |
| Hudson's Bar & Grill | The Dearborn | Upscale tavern with American cuisine |
| Thai Orchid Restaurant | Sticky Rice | Authentic Thai cuisine |
| La Bottega | Eataly | Variety of Italian offerings |
| Joe's Crab Shack | Half Shell | Casual seafood dining |
| Woody's Tacos | Big Star | Tacos and whiskey |
| Tommy O's Pacific Rim Bistro | Pacific Standard Time | West Coast vibes and flavors |
| Brickhouse | Girl & The Goat | Innovative, eclectic dishes |
| Relevant Coffee | Intelligentsia Coffee | Artisan coffee shop |
When the hunger for diverse and vibrant flavors hits, Chicago's culinary scene won't disappoint, especially when comparing it to what Vancouver, WA has nurtured in you. For example, should you find yourself reminiscing about the cozy, authentic bites at Thai Orchid Restaurant, Sticky Rice in Chicago will envelop you in similarly authentic Thai culinary delights, focusing on traditional recipes with a modern twist. Likewise, those unforgettable seafood experiences from Joe's Crab Shack can be recreated with a visit to Half Shell, where the casual vibe meets serious seafood goodness. And for those mornings when only a crafted coffee will do, the transition from Relevant Coffee in Vancouver to Intelligentsia Coffee in Chicago feels like trading one artisanal gem for another, ensuring your coffee ritual is in good hands.
Ready to start your move?
Vancouver vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate markets of Vancouver, WA and Chicago, IL is crucial for making informed decisions. This comparison will provide insights into housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle scores to help you find your perfect home.
| Comparison | Vancouver | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Craftsman | Greystone, Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, quiet neighborhoods | Proximity to transit, lake views |
Considering a move, it's evident that Chicago offers a more urban lifestyle with higher walkability scores, reflecting its dense, city structure compared to Vancouver's suburban setting. Chicago's real estate highlights include properties with stunning lake views and excellent access to public transit, which are big draws for many. On the other hand, Vancouver's real estate appeals to those seeking spacious backyards and quieter neighborhood settings. The difference in median home prices and rent between the two cities further underscores the trade-offs between more affordable, suburban living in Vancouver and the vibrant, urban lifestyle that Chicago offers.
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.
Vancouver vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
Moving from one place to another can significantly impact your lifestyle, especially when it comes to weather. If you're considering transitioning from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL, understanding how the climate differs could help you adjust more comfortably to your new environment.
Vancouver, WA
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Vancouver, WA
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Vancouver, WA
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Vancouver, WA
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Vancouver | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Snowstorms, Tornados |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Vancouver to Chicago, you'll notice some stark differences in weather patterns. Chicago experiences more sunny days yearly and markedly colder winters, often with substantial snowfall—a vast contrast to Vancouver's milder winters. Additionally, while both cities have a similar annual UV index, the types of natural disasters they're prone to vary significantly, with Chicago facing snowstorms and tornados, against Vancouver's potential for earthquakes and volcanic activity. Adjusting to Chicago's weather might involve preparing for colder winters and hotter summers, highlighting the importance of suitable clothing and home preparedness.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Vancouver to Chicago
Moving from one city to another means navigating different financial landscapes. In this comparison, we help you understand how Vancouver, WA and Chicago, IL stack up in terms of money and finance. This will allow you to gauge how your financial health might be impacted by the move.
| Comparison | Vancouver | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $69,993 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 94.8 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 4.95 (flat rate) |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.03 | 2.10 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.4 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Tech, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Tech |
| Affluence | moderately affluent | diverse economic status |
| Poverty | lower | higher |
| Homelessness | moderate | significant |
When comparing the financial aspects of living in Vancouver, WA, and Chicago, IL, it's not just about the numbers but the quality of life those numbers can afford you. For instance, Washington's lack of state income tax can be beneficial for your take-home pay versus the flat rate in Illinois. However, property and sales taxes in Chicago are higher, which could offset some of those savings. The average household income is higher in Vancouver, which, coupled with a slightly higher cost of living index, implies a relatively balanced economic environment. Industries in both cities offer diverse employment opportunities, but the difference in homelessness and poverty levels highlights varying urban challenges you might face.
Vancouver vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison aims to offer a quick snapshot, focusing on the politics between Vancouver & Chicago and the religious landscape, to give you an idea of the community vibes you'll encounter in each city.
| Vancouver | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Historically Democratic with powerful city politics |
| Religion | Mix, with Protestant and Catholic communities | Diverse, significant Catholic presence alongside other faiths |
Even though both Vancouver and Chicago lean Democratic in their political makeup, you'll find Chicago to be more strongly affiliated with the Democratic Party, reflecting in its local politics characterized by a long history of Democratic leadership. Whereas local politics in Vancouver are known to be progressive, especially on social issues, Chicago's political scene takes influence from its robust and historically significant city governance structures. Religious diversity is rich in both cities. However, Chicago stands out for its vibrant Catholic community alongside a mosaic of other faiths, reflecting the city's broader diversity. By understanding these nuances, you'll have a smoother transition in adapting to your new home.
Vancouver vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic is crucial when relocating, especially when considering the differences between Vancouver, WA and Chicago, IL. This comparison aims to offer insight into what your daily travel might look like.
| Comparison | Vancouver | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Challenging | Yes |
When moving from Vancouver, WA to Chicago, IL, you'll find that your commute time may increase, as Chicago's traffic congestion is notably higher. However, Chicago makes up for this with its robust public transit system, making it easier to get by without a car compared to Vancouver. In Chicago, you can rely on the Chicago Transit Authority for most of your commuting needs, thanks to the extensive network of buses and the 'L' train system. Meanwhile, in Vancouver, a car is more necessary due to less availability of public transportation options.
Additional Resources
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