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New York to Illinois Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from the Empire State to the Land of Lincoln is an adventure filled with new possibilities and profound life changes. Swapping New York's bustling streets and iconic skyline for Illinois' sprawling prairies and vibrant city life in Chicago offers a stark, exciting contrast. Recognizing the challenges of such a long-distance move, it's crucial to choose trusted, reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we use an unbiased ranking algorithm to help you find the best movers, ensuring your journey is smooth and stress-free.

6 Best Movers for Moving from New York to Illinois

#1
JP Urban Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 4,145+ data points

Brooklyn, NY
Local NYC Moving, Long Distance Moving, Office Moving, Business Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 2096754 Verify

About JP Urban Moving

JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to give you the best custo...Read More >>

top new york city 2024 jp urban moving image
top 10 ranked movers in new york city 2023 jp urban moving image
top 10 ranked movers in new york city 2022 jp urban moving image
#2
Metropolis Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,535+ data points

Brooklyn, NY
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Commercial moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 2781573 Verify

About Metropolis Moving

Metropolis Moving is a top-rated, licensed, and insured Brooklyn mover serving the greater Tri-State area, including all of Long Island and ...Read More >>

top 3 new york city 2024 metropolis moving image
top 10 ranked movers in queens 2023 metropolis moving image
top 10 ranked movers in queens 2022 metropolis moving image
#3
F
Exceptional

based on 1,380+ data points

Brooklyn, NY
Local moves, Commercial moves, Long distance moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 3610638 Verify

About Flex Moving and Storage

With its domicile in Astoria, New York, Flex Moving and Storage carries a decade long European establishment. The company's range of service...Read More >>

top 3 new york city 2024 flex moving and storage image
#4
Solidarity Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,319+ data points

Brooklyn, NY
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Cross-country moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 3519325 Verify

About Solidarity Movers

New York is a big city, and residents need a reliable company to help them move. That’s where Solidarity Movers’ five-star rated service com...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in clifton 2023 solidarity movers image
top 10 ranked movers in clifton 2022 solidarity movers image
#5
F
Exceptional

based on 738+ data points

Chicago, IL
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Cross-country moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/25/2024)

USDOT: 3893107 Verify

About Fresh Start Movers Chicago

Website Information: Fresh Start Movers Chicago is a professional moving company headquartered in Chicago, IL, serving both residential and ...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in bethany 2023 fresh start movers chicago image
#6
Happ Movers, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,118+ data points

Glenview, IL
Professional Moving Services, Residential Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 7/24/2023)

USDOT: 2970282 Verify

About Happ Movers, Inc.

Happ Movers, Inc. has provided residential and commercial moving services in Chicago’s North Shore area for more than half a century. Locate...Read More >>

top 10 waukegan 2024 happ movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in waukegan 2023 happ movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in waukegan 2022 happ movers inc image

Pros and Cons of Moving from New York to Illinois

Moving from one state to another is a significant life change that comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the New York to Illinois relocation, outlining both the good and the bad aspects to help you make an informed decision. By comparing the cons of leaving New York with the pros of moving to Illinois, and vice versa, you will have a comprehensive overview of what to expect.

CONs
PROs
New York iconNew York
  • Higher living costs
  • Dense population
  • Harsh winters
  • Long commutes
Illinois iconIllinois
  • More affordable housing
  • Less crowded
  • Milder winters
  • Shorter commutes
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Fewer cultural institutions
  • Less culinary diversity
  • Fewer job sectors
New York iconNew York
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • World-class museums
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Abundant job opportunities

When considering a move from New York to Illinois, it's essential to weigh the quality of life factors against each other. Illinois offers the charm of midwestern living with more affordable housing options, such as in cities like Springfield or the quieter suburbs of Chicago. While Illinois may have milder winters compared to New York's biting cold, it does mean saying goodbye to the bustling nightlife and diverse food scene found in places like Manhattan. However, Illinois is not without its culinary and cultural gems. The state is home to renowned establishments like Chicago's restaurants and iconic sights, including the historic Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield. This move might mean trading in some of the fast-paced hustle of New York for a more laid-back lifestyle, but with its own set of unique attractions and communities to explore.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from New York to Illinois

Food is an integral component of local culture and gives insight into what life is like in a particular area. In this guide, we'll explore the local cuisine so you can be better informed about the food scene where you're moving. This comparison of the local cuisine between New York & Illinois aims to bridge your culinary curiosity and preparation for a new gastronomic adventure.

New YorkIllinois

Most iconic local food item

New York-style pizzaChicago-style deep dish pizza

Most popular meat dish

Corned beefItalian beef

Most popular street food item

Hot dogsPolish sausage

Most popular vegan food

Bagels with vegan spreadsVegan deep-dish pizza

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Katz's Delicatessen
  • Carmine's
  • Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Garrett Popcorn Shops

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

98

Foodie Scene

109

Vegan Friendly

98

Embarking on your culinary journey in Illinois, specifically in the city of Chicago, means diving into a deep-dish pizza that's rich, thick, and unlike anything else. Explore neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Wicker Park for a vibrant vegan scene; these areas offer everything from vegan deep-dish pizzas at local establishments like Kitchen 17, to inventive plant-based meals. Illinois' passion for meat isn’t limited to its iconic Italian beef; explore the Polish influence with a savory Polish sausage available at numerous street food vendors. For a taste of local charm and history, a visit to Lou Malnati's Pizzeria and Portillo's is a must; they epitomize the deep-rooted food culture of Illinois.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from New York to Illinois

Real estate is a critical factor in any relocation journey. Understanding how housing aspects in New York and Illinois compare will guide you in making informed decisions about your move. From costs to architecture and lifestyle , these insights will illuminate the unique characteristics of each state's real estate market.

When considering a move from New York to Illinois, it's important to note the stark contrasts in housing costs and styles. The median home price and rent in New York are significantly higher, reflecting the state's bustling urban environment and dense population. Architecture in New York often includes iconic pre-war buildings and charming brownstones, while Illinois showcases diverse architectural influences like Prairie and Farmhouse styles, a nod to its historical and cultural background. Additionally, New York's higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores indicate a more compact living environment, often preferred by those who value proximity to public amenities and a fast-paced lifestyle. Conversely, Illinois' real estate listings frequently highlight attributes such as ample yard space and quiet neighborhoods, appealing to those seeking a more relaxed and spacious living situation.

Weather Considerations for Moving from New York to Illinois

Understanding how weather will vary is crucial when moving from one location to another. If you're planning a move from New York to Illinois, getting acquainted with the climate differences will help you adjust faster. This comparison chart highlights key weather aspects to consider.

Summer icon
85°F / 66°F

New York

85°F / 65°F

Illinois

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
39°F / 26°F

New York

35°F / 22°F

Illinois

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
49.9

New York

39.2

Illinois

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
25.3

New York

22.0

Illinois

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When considering a move from New York to Illinois, the subtle yet impactful weather differences are important. Illinois experiences slightly colder winters with fewer days of sunshine annually, which could affect your daily life and mood. Despite similar summer temperatures, the higher average humidity in Illinois might make the air feel heavier during warmer months. Additionally, being prepared for different natural disasters, such as tornadoes in Illinois versus hurricanes in New York, is crucial for your safety and peace of mind. Understanding these weather patterns will help you make a smoother transition.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New York to Illinois

When deciding to relocate from one state to another, it’s crucial to understand the financial differences you will encounter. This comparison charts the key monetary aspects between New York and Illinois, offering insights into what you can expect. The purpose of this chart is to compare the cost of living, taxes, and economic environment between New York and Illinois , giving you a clear picture of how your finances might be affected.

While the average household income is relatively similar between New York and Illinois, there's a noticeable difference in the cost of living index—New York being significantly higher at 149.9 versus Illinois at 94.5. This may influence your decision if budgeting is a primary concern. Illinois offers a singular flat state income tax rate, which simplifies tax preparations compared to New York's variable rates based on income levels. The comparison of top industries between both states highlights diverse economic environments, with New York focusing on finance and professional services, while Illinois boasts a robust manufacturing sector. This variance may impact your job search or business opportunities in both states. Additionally, Illinois has a higher average property tax rate, which is an important consideration if you plan to purchase a home.

Political & Religious Comparison between New York and Illinois

As you consider moving from New York to Illinois, it's helpful to get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political, and religious makeup of the residents. This guide provides a comparison to give you an idea of what to expect in terms of the political and religious landscape between New York & Illinois .

New YorkIllinois

Political Make-up

Democratic leaningDemocratic leaning

Local Politics

Liberal, especially in urban areasMixed, with a balance of liberal in cities and conservative in rural areas

Religion

Christianity, Judaism, Islam, among othersChristianity, Judaism, Islam, among others

In both New York and Illinois, you'll find a predominantly Democratic political leaning, particularly strong in urban centers such as New York City and Chicago. However, Illinois presents more political diversity, with its rural areas often leaning more conservative compared to New York's largely liberal stance. The religious landscape in both states is quite varied, with strong Christian communities alongside significant Jewish and Muslim populations. This diversity reflects the rich cultural tapestry that both states offer, making them welcoming to people from various backgrounds and beliefs.

Education Guide When Moving from New York to Illinois

When considering a move from New York to Illinois, it’s essential to assess educational opportunities for your family. This comparison will help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in New York and Illinois. You'll be equipped to make the best decisions for your children's education.

New YorkIllinois

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

New York University
Columbia University
Cornell University
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
University of Chicago

Top 3 Elementary Schools

PS 77 Lower Lab School (New York City)
Success Academy Charter School (Bronx)
Anderson School (New York City)
Lincoln Elementary School (Springfield)
Meadow Glens Elementary School (Naperville)
Willowbrook Elementary School (Glenview)

Top 3 Middle Schools

East Side Middle School (New York City)
Yorkville East Middle School (New York City)
I.S. 187 The Christa McAuliffe School (Brooklyn)
Woodlawn Middle School (Long Grove)
Marie Murphy School (Wilmette)
Kennedy Junior High School (Lisle)

Top 3 High School Schools

Stuyvesant High School (New York City)
Bronx High School of Science (Bronx)
Brooklyn Technical High School (Brooklyn)
Adlai E. Stevenson High School (Lincolnshire)
Northside College Preparatory High School (Chicago)
Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (Aurora)

Top 3 private high schools

Horace Mann School (Bronx)
Collegiate School (New York City)
Trinity School (New York City)
University of Chicago Lab Schools (Chicago)
Lake Forest Academy (Lake Forest)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Riverdale Country School (Bronx)
The Spence School (New York City)
The Chapin School (New York City)
Latin School of Chicago (Chicago)
North Shore Country Day (Winnetka)
Morgan Park Academy (Chicago)

Top 3 School Districts

Scarsdale Union Free School District
Jericho Union Free School District
Great Neck Public Schools
New Trier Township High School District 203
Naperville Community Unit School District 203
Community High School District 128

When analyzing the education landscape, it’s evident that both New York and Illinois boast impressive institutions across all levels of schooling. For example, high schools such as Stuyvesant High School in New York and Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Illinois are nationally recognized for their academic excellence, offering a robust curriculum that prepares students for success in higher education and beyond. Similarly, private K-12 schools like The Riverdale Country School in New York offer a diverse and enriching environment that mirrors the offerings of the Latin School of Chicago in Illinois. This comparison indicates that regardless of your destination, your children have access to top-tier education facilities that cater to a wide range of academic and extracurricular interests.

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