Written by


Alex is the founder of 9Kilo Moving, which he started to help people easily find and choose the right moving company to make their move as stress-free and seamless as possible. He has spent over 20 years working in the moving industry, so he knows every aspect of the business and uses his knowledge to write about the industry and give moving advice. More on about us page

Moving from Seattle to Chicago - Expert Tips and Advice

The top cities in the country have a few things in common: vibrant nightlife, excellent restaurants, outdoor activities, and job opportunities. They're all in Chicago! Chicago has many, whether you are looking to relocate with your family or embark on a new career path. Chicago is the ideal combination of a bustling big city and a laid-back town, with stunning skyscrapers and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.

It would help if you spent some time looking for the best movers Seattle offers for your move. Moving from Seattle to Chicago is long-distance because the driving distance between the cities is approximately 30 hours. This means you may want to hire professionals to assist you in transporting your belongings on such a long journey. The entire endeavour will be much easier with their assistance. However, the moving process is only one aspect of your relocation. You may want to learn more about both locations to get the best results and adapt faster. And that is precisely what this article will be about. We will share all the information that will assist you in adapting.

CALCULATE MY MOVE

What can you expect if you relocate from Seattle to Chicago?

Chicago, also known as "the Windy City," derives its name from the Algonquian word "Chicago," which means "onion Field." Since its inception, the city has played an important role in developing American culture, political history, and economics. It is popularly known as the Railroad Capital of the United States, as it has more major railroads than any other location. But first, let's look at what makes Chicago so special (and not so great).

The Benefits of Living in Chicago

Transportation and sports

To begin, Chicago's public transportation is simply amazing. After all, we didn't expect anything less from the railroad capital. The city has the second-largest train system in the United States. The Chicago Transit Authority's trains and buses are the best and most cost-effective ways to get around.

Did you know that Chicago has been named "the Best Sports City" in the United States three times? All it takes is a mention of Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls, and everything falls into place. However, the NBA's powerhouse is not the only team fans root for; the Chicago Bears have a large fan base, as does the Chicago Rush (AFL). There are 15 major sports teams in total.

Employment Opportunities

Chicago is a great place to advance your career because it is a leader in various industries. Chicago is a great place to work in finance, with companies like JP Morgan, Chase, and Deloitte. Chicago is also home to the headquarters of major airlines such as Boeing and United. Other significant employment sectors include engineering, healthcare, government, pharmaceuticals, and transportation.

Seasonal Activities

Spring and summer are lovely times of year in Chicago when trees and flowers bloom, and festivals begin. Chicago residents can enjoy other seasons despite its reputation for bitterly cold winters. Chicago's festival season lasts from May to October, so there's always something exciting to look forward to. With over 150 annual events, there will be plenty of opportunities to enjoy music, heritage, food, and local street fairs outside. And, because it doesn't rain nearly as much as in Seattle, your event is unlikely to be canceled.

Beautiful Beaches 

These aren't your typical beaches, but Chicago residents have access to 26 miles of sandy shores along Lake Michigan. Lake Michigan provides a stunning backdrop for the city, but it also offers numerous opportunities to enjoy the water during the summer months. Residents can walk along the shores or go boating, swimming, or jet skiing.

Excellent Food and Shopping

If you live in Chicago, you will quickly develop a taste for three iconic dishes: Italian beef, deep-dish pizza, and the Chicago-style hot dog. While Chicago is well-known for its staples, it also has many fantastic restaurants. It has several Michelin-starred restaurants as well as restaurants owned by celebrity chefs. It also has vibrant bar scenes, with trendy bars and hipster hangouts strewn about the city. Chicago also has some excellent shopping opportunities. Wicker Park, Oak Street, and State Street are excellent shopping districts. Michigan Avenue, also popularly known as the Magnificent Mile, is a mile-long stretch of boutiques, restaurants, and high-rise malls.

Fun traditions, crime, living cost

In Chicago, there is always something going on! You would not want to miss any of the city's fun traditions. For example, St. Patrick's Day in Chicago is a well-known international event. Every year, it attracts over 400,000 people! Then there are the famous Chicago dance festivals and world-class blues festivals.

However, as you may expect, one of the most significant disadvantages of living in Chicago is the city's relatively high crime rate. It's no surprise that everyone remembers Al Capone, Baby Face Nelson, and John Dillinger. For better or worse, these people left their imprint on history. While the situation is not as bad as it once was, and Chicago is much safer these days, it remains the city's primary issue.

Cost of Living

Finally, the main reason you might want to relocate to Chicago is the cost of living. While they are higher than the national average, they are nowhere near Seattle's. But the fact remains that they are still high, and you must be prepared for them. Whether you need a temporary apartment or a place to raise a family, Chicago is a great place to settle down. Chicago is quite affordable when compared to other major cities. The median home price in Seattle is $715,000, while only $229,000 in Chicago. The overall cost of living in Chicago is roughly 18% less than Seattle's. If you couldn't get your dream of owning a home in Seattle, you can make it a reality in Chicago.

CALCULATE MY MOVE

What Are the Popular Neighborhoods to Live in Chicago?

You can easily find the perfect spot to call Chicago home and find an affordable Chicago neighborhood, whether you're looking for an area with easy access to dining and public transportation or a quieter family-oriented community.

Lincoln Park

Residents of Lincoln Park share a home with penguins, monkeys, and animals from all over the world. The Lincoln Park Zoo is also located in this popular north side Chicago neighborhood. DePaul University also has a campus here. It's also convenient to the lakefront trail, public transportation, restaurants, and shopping.

Lakeview

Lakeview, particularly East Lakeview, is dense and congested. Locals here are known to walk or take public transportation if they want to get anywhere when the Chicago Cubs play at Wrigley Field because thousands of people flock to the area to watch the game or visit the bars. Boystown, now known as Northalsted Chicago, is a welcoming neighborhood that hosts an annual LGBTQ Pride Parade, music festivals, Halloween parties, and other events.

West Loop

The West Loop, as the name implies, is located directly west of the Loop. Industrial buildings in what was once a meatpacking and warehouse district have been converted into trendy lofts or demolished to make way for luxury high-rise apartment and condo buildings.

Logan Square

Logan Square has undergone significant change in recent years. It is a well-known open-air food market and community gathering spot. Large apartment buildings line busy Milwaukee Avenue, adding to the city's already dense northwest side neighborhood. Young professionals and artists coexist with a dwindling Latino working-class population. Trendy restaurants are replacing closed storefronts. Residents here also enjoy the Logan Square Farmers Market on Sundays.

Wicker Park

Wicker Park, located south of Bucktown and north of West Town, is an artsy enclave with a triangular park in the center of this trendy and bustling neighborhood. Milwaukee Avenue also runs through it, and the street is home to a variety of unique independent boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops.

Bucktown

Because Bucktown is close to Wicker Park, the two communities frequently collaborate on activities. It is a little quieter than its artsy neighbors like Wicker Park and Logan Square, and it is less expensive than its neighbor to the east, Lincoln Park. It is convenient to the Kennedy Expressway, train and bus stations, and downtown Chicago.

Gold Coast

The Gold Coast is known for its money because of Astor Street, a charming six-block tree-lined street from Division Street to North Avenue filled with history, brownstones, and mansions named after John Jacob Astor, one of the richest men in the 1800s. This neighborhood is still known for its wealthy residents, excellent restaurants, and upscale boutiques. It doesn't hurt that many apartment buildings have Lake Michigan views, given that the neighborhood is adjacent to the lake and provides easy access to the beach and lakefront trail.

Chicago Attractions: Culture and Nightlife

Garfield Park Conservatory

Chicago won't let you down whether you're looking for family-friendly activities or the best bars for a drink. Instead of focusing on typical tourist attractions—after all, you'll be living there—we'll direct your attention to Garfield Park Conservatory, where many Chicago residents go to escape the harsh Chicago winters. Thousands of plant species can be found at one of the country's largest conservatories, free yoga classes, a monthly lecture series, a free bi-monthly concert series for kids, etc.

Shopping Local

The Randolph Street Market is an excellent place to spend your hard-earned money if you enjoy shopping for antiques and vintage items. The Logan Square Farmers Market is another good option if you're looking for fresh produce and locally made goods.

Art, Jazz, and, of course, Pizza

If you're looking for a bit of culture, the Art Institute of Chicago is a must-see. Indeed, with works by Edward Hopper, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Georges Seurat and rotating exhibits, outdoor areas, and dining options, it's a place you'll want to return to. If you enjoy jazz, you'll enjoy the Green Mill Cocktail Lounge. Inspired by Clark Monroe's Uptown House in Harlem in the 1940s, this place serves delectable drinks, has excellent live music, and tells fascinating stories about Al Capone, and his legendary booze runs. 

CALCULATE MY MOVE

Conclusion

Hiring a professional moving company is best if you are moving a long distance. Long-distance moves necessitate extensive planning and organization. Because you don't have the luxury of making multiple trips back and forth, you must ensure that everything is done perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is it best to live in Chicago or Seattle?

Seattle is far safer than Chicago, and its residents are far more educated and well-off than most Chicagoans.

Is living in Seattle or Chicago more expensive?

Chicago is 38.0 percent cheaper than Seattle. Housing in Chicago is 67.9 percent less expensive than housing in Seattle. In Chicago, healthcare costs are 6.3 percent higher.

Is it true that Chicago is larger than Seattle?

When you include the greater Seattle metropolitan area, it is slightly larger than Chicago. It is both larger and smaller than others. This would apply to both population size and physical location.

See also: Moving from Seattle to San Francisco | Moving from Seattle to Atlanta | Moving from Seattle to NYC | 5 Best Places To Move From Milwaukee