New York City is a place where dreams come true, offering many wonderful things. However, if you’ve decided to make Chicago your new home, you’ll find plenty to love about the Windy City. While there are some similarities between these two big cities, Chicago has its own unique charm. Beyond its famous deep-dish pizza and loyal sports fans, Chicago residents enjoy a high quality of life with plenty of great amenities. If you’re ready to swap the hustle of NYC for the vibe of Chicago, keep reading to learn about the many perks of living in Chicago and some helpful tips for making your move easier.
Benefits of Moving from New York to Chicago
Moving from NYC to the Midwest is a major change and will definitely bring a shift in lifestyle but there are plenty of reasons to enjoy Chicago. You’ll still get the experience of living in a big city but at a more affordable cost. Plus, you won’t have to navigate the constant crowds and fast-paced streets like in New York. There are many perks to living in Chicago and here’s what you need to know about them.
| Benefit | New York City | Chicago |
| Cost of Living | High | More affordable |
| Housing Prices | Expensive | Lower housing costs |
| Crowds and Traffic | Very crowded and congested | Less crowded, easier to navigate |
| Public Transportation | Extensive, but often crowded | Reliable, less crowded |
| Green Spaces | Limited, smaller parks | Abundant parks (e.g., Millennium Park) |
| Quality of Life | Fast-paced, stressful | Balanced, high quality of life |
| Job Opportunities | Competitive, high demand | Strong job market, diverse industries |
| Entertainment and Culture | World-class, but expensive | Rich culture, more affordable |
| Food Scene | Diverse and expensive | Famous for deep-dish pizza, diverse options at better prices |
| Proximity to Nature | Requires travel outside the city | Easy access to Lake Michigan and nature spots nearby |
Lower Cost of Living
One of the first things New Yorkers will notice upon moving to Illinois is how much more affordable everything is. New York City is known for being one of the priciest places to live, so the lower rental prices in Chicago will be a pleasant change. In NYC, the median rent is around $1,086 but in Chicago, it’s about $886. On top of that, many Chicago condos offer great amenities like pools, tennis courts and gyms—something that’s rare to find in New York for the same price. Real estate in Chicago is also much cheaper. For example, condos in downtown Chicago can go for around $600 per square foot, while in NYC similar condos could cost as much as $6,000 per square foot. Besides housing, you’ll also save on groceries, utilities and healthcare in Chicago.
Transportation
Chicago has the second-largest public transit system in the country, with eight “L” trains that run above the city, providing an easy commute for residents. Besides the trains, there’s also a bus system that covers all parts of the city. Unlike New York where many people rely only on public transportation, many Chicagoans also own cars and prefer to drive. Walking and biking are popular options too especially when the weather is nice.
Strong Job Market
Chicago’s location in the Midwest has helped it build a strong transportation industry, with major employers in railroads, shipping, warehousing and trucking. The city also has the second-largest printing and publishing industry after New York. Additionally, Chicago is a key center for banking, finance, insurance and commodities trading. This means there are plenty of job opportunities in various industries for skilled professionals.
Beautiful Scenery
New York City has a stunning skyline but if you’re looking for more green spaces and open-air views Chicago is the perfect spot. While Chicago has an impressive skyline as well, it also boasts a beautiful lakefront along Lake Michigan. With over 20 miles of parks and beaches in the city, it offers a scenic backdrop to the skyline. Residents can easily take a break from work and enjoy a peaceful walk along the water.
Excellent Higher Education
Chicago is home to several top colleges and universities giving residents easy access to some of the most respected schools. These include the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, University of Illinois, Loyola University and the Illinois Institute of Technology.
Great Entertainment
If you’re moving from “the city that never sleeps” you’ll likely have high expectations for entertainment. Chicago won’t disappoint, offering plenty to do along with outdoor activities that New York doesn’t have. The city is known for its top-notch restaurants, cafes, bars, Diversey River Bowl and a lively nightlife. You’ll also find amazing museums, art galleries and parks. Sports fans can enjoy watching the Chicago Cubs, White Sox, Bears, Bulls or Blackhawks. Plus, with its beautiful lakefront, residents can take part in outdoor fun like boating, sailing, biking, jet-skiing, jogging, Planet Fitness and kayaking.
Cost of Moving from New York to Chicago
The average cost to move from New York to Chicago ranges between $2,500 and $4,000. For example moving with Chicago Movers Near Me averages about $2,190.49. However, the exact price can vary depending on factors like the number of items, the specific distance, any extra packing or unpacking services and special handling needs. To get the most accurate estimate, it’s best to use a quick quote tool or contact a moving company directly.
How to Move from New York to Chicago
With around 800 miles between New York and Chicago, planning ahead is essential to make your move smooth and successful.
Long-distance moves can be stressful which is why hiring a professional moving company is a smart choice. Chicago Movers Near Me has over 70 years of experience and is one of the most trusted movers in the industry. We understand what it takes to handle long-distance moves and are here to assist you at every stage. Whether you need full packing and unpacking services or professional transportation, we’ve got you covered so you can focus on settling into your new life in Chicago.
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Call us today to learn how Chicago Movers Near Me can customize your move, or get started with a free quote using our Instaquote tool.
FAQs
How Much Should You Tip Movers in 2024?
In 2024, it’s generally recommended to tip movers around $4 to $5 per hour per mover. For a long-distance move, you might tip around $40 to $50 per mover. However, the amount can vary based on the level of service and difficulty of the move. If the movers went above and beyond, you may want to tip more.
How to Move a Grandfather Clock?
Moving a grandfather clock requires extra care. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Remove any pendulums or weights to prevent them from shifting during the move.
- Secure the clock’s glass door with padding or tape.
- Wrap the clock in moving blankets for protection.
- Consider using professional movers, as grandfather clocks are delicate and can be easily damaged.
How to Pack Glasses When Moving?
To safely pack glasses when moving:
- Wrap each glass individually with bubble wrap or packing paper.
- Place a layer of padding, like crumpled paper, at the bottom of the box.
- Place the wrapped glasses upright in the box, filling any empty spaces with packing material to prevent shifting.
- Clearly label the box as “fragile” to ensure careful handling.
These steps will help ensure your glasses arrive safely at your new home.
