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Utah to Illinois Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from state to state marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in your life. Imagine leaving behind Utah's majestic mountains and welcoming Illinois's bustling Windy City or its tranquil countryside. It's essential to secure the service of trusted and reliable professional movers for such a significant leap. At Great Guys Moving, we use an unbiased ranking algorithm to ensure you're connected with the best movers, making your journey from the Beehive State to the Prairie State as smooth as possible.

6 Best Movers for Moving from Utah to Illinois

#1
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
#2
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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in waukegan 2023 happ movers inc image
top 10 ranked movers in waukegan 2022 happ movers inc image
#3
801 Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 412+ data points

Millcreek, UT
Packing services, Long-distance moves, Local moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 4140953 Verify

About 801 Moving Company

801 Moving Company has been serving the Salt Lake City Metro, UT area since 2008. Based in Salt Lake City, this moving company offers a rang...Read More >>

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#4
Best of Utah Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,595+ data points

Jordan, UT
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Office moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 2920944 Verify

About Best of Utah Moving Company

Best of Utah Moving Company is one of the top-rated local moving companies in Utah. It is fully licensed and insured and has been operating ...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in salt lake city 2023 best of utah moving company image
top 10 ranked movers in salt lake city 2022 best of utah moving company image
#5
Just in Time Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 843+ data points

St. George, UT
Local & Cross Country Relocation Company, Residential Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/5/2023)

USDOT: 2980986 Verify

About Just in Time Moving

Just in Time Moving is a full-service moving company with over eleven years of experience, based in St. George, Utah. Owned by Justin and Mi...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in washington 2023 just in time moving image
top 10 ranked movers in washington 2022 just in time moving image
#6
You Move Me Salt Lake City Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,566+ data points

Woods Cross, UT
Local Moving Services, Long-Distance Moving Services, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 1/25/2024)

USDOT: 3820939 Verify

About You Move Me Salt Lake City

You Move Me Salt Lake City is a top-rated local moving company offering a wide range of services such as packing, moving, and providing movi...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in riverdale 2023 you move me salt lake city image

Pros and Cons of Moving from Utah to Illinois

Moving can be a transformative experience, offering a fresh start and new opportunities. In this guide, we offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Utah to Illinois. Through comparative charts, we aim to provide a clear visual representation of the changes you might encounter, helping you make an informed decision on this significant life change.

CONs
PROs
Utah iconUtah
  • Less diverse landscape
  • Smaller urban centers
  • Higher elevation
  • Dry climate
  • More conservative
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Larger cities
  • Lower elevation
  • Four distinct seasons
  • More liberal
Illinois iconIllinois
  • Less outdoor variety
  • Higher living costs
  • Flatter terrain
  • More urban anonymity
  • Heavier traffic
Utah iconUtah
  • Vast outdoor activities
  • Lower living costs
  • Breathtaking landscapes
  • Strong community feel
  • Less traffic congestion

Illinois, particularly cities like Chicago, offers a rich mixture of cultural diversity, larger urban centers, and distinct seasons that can be a refreshing change from Utah's dry, elevated terrain. Chicago's famous deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's contrasts with Utah's outdoor-focused lifestyle, like the adventures around Zion National Park. However, with this move, be prepared for Illinois' potentially higher living costs and flatter, less varied landscapes. The vibrant arts scene, including venues like the Art Institute of Chicago, and the historical significance of locales such as the Lincoln Park area, provide enriching cultural and recreational opportunities that differ significantly from Utah's more community-centric and natural outdoor appeal.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Utah to Illinois

Understanding the local food scene is crucial when relocating, as food is a significant aspect of local culture and living experience. This comparison of the local cuisine between Utah & Illinois is designed to keep you well-informed about what culinary delights await you in your new home.

UtahIllinois

Most iconic local food item

Jell-OChicago-style Deep Dish Pizza

Most popular meat dish

Utah SconesItalian Beef Sandwich

Most popular street food item

Fry SauceChicago-style Hot Dog

Most popular vegan food

Avocado ToastSeitan

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state

  • Ruth's Chris Steak House
  • Red Iguana
  • Valter's Osteria
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)

86

Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)

78

Foodie Scene (out of 10)

79

Vegan Friendly (out of 10)

68

Moving to Illinois, especially areas like Chicago, you'll find yourself immersed in a vibrant and diverse foodie scene. The state is renowned for its Chicago-style deep dish pizza and Italian Beef Sandwiches, easily found in iconic spots such as Lou Malnati's Pizzeria and Portillo's. Chicago's diverse neighborhoods, such as the West Loop, are culinary hotspots where food lovers can explore a wide range of world cuisines, with many establishments offering innovative vegan options like seitan dishes. Furthermore, Illinois' higher vegan-friendly rating highlights a welcoming atmosphere for those pursuing plant-based diets.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Utah to Illinois

When making the move from Utah to Illinois, it's essential to compare the key aspects of real estate to make an informed decision. Understanding the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle can significantly impact your choice and future living experience.

Moving between states brings into relief the differences not just in housing costs, but in the very feel of your potential new home. Illinois, with its higher walkability score, indicates a more urban-friendly lifestyle, particularly for those moving closer to Chicago. This urban edge offers a vivid contrast to Utah's emphasis on outdoor spaces and mountain views, highlighting a significant lifestyle shift. Both states offer their unique architectural styles, with Illinois threading in historical Victorian and International influences amidst its real estate options. This variety enriches your living experience, especially if you have an interest in diverse architectural aesthetics.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Utah to Illinois

When moving from Utah to Illinois, understanding how the weather conditions will compare between Utah and Illinois is vital for your comfort and preparation. This comparison aims to highlight those differences and help you adjust accordingly.

Summer icon
85°F / 60°F

Utah

85°F / 65°F

Illinois

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
37°F / 18°F

Utah

35°F / 22°F

Illinois

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
16

Utah

39

Illinois

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
56

Utah

22

Illinois

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Utah to Illinois, you'll find similarities in summer temperatures but a notable difference in winter chill and humidity levels. Illinois experiences a higher annual rainfall, contributing to its lush landscapes versus Utah's drier climate. Illinois' winters are less harsh, with lesser snowfall but higher humidity, making cold days feel colder. Another key difference is natural disasters; while Utah faces risks from earthquakes and wildfires, Illinois is more prone to tornadoes and floods. Understanding these changes will prepare you for a smoother transition.

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

When relocating, it’s crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial aspects of your new home stack up against your current situation. This comparison aims to highlight the key financial differences between moving from Utah to Illinois , focusing on income, taxes, and the overall economic environment.

While both Utah and Illinois have the same state income tax rate, you'll find key differences in average household income, property taxes, and the overall cost of living. Utah boasts a higher average income, which is beneficial considering its slightly higher cost of living index compared to Illinois. However, Illinois tends to have a higher property and sales tax, which can impact your budget. The economic environment varies between the two, with Utah showing a trend towards increasing affluence, particularly in tech-driven sectors, whereas Illinois presents a more varied picture with significant strengths in manufacturing and agriculture. Understanding these nuances can help you plan your finances more effectively when moving.

Political & Religious Comparison between Utah and Illinois

When planning a move from Utah to Illinois, understanding the communities you're about to join can help set your expectations. This quick comparison of politics between Utah & Illinois alongside the religious landscape offers a snapshot of the cultural differences you may encounter.

UtahIllinois

Political Make-up

ConservativeLiberal

Local Politics

Republican dominanceDemocratic strongholds in urban areas

Religion

LDS Church majorityDiverse religious landscape

The political and religious climates between Utah and Illinois are starkly different. Utah's local governance is predominantly Republican, reflecting the state's conservative values, closely tied with the predominant influence of the LDS Church. This intertwining of politics and religion in Utah contrasts with Illinois's more liberal stance and its diverse religious landscape, which fosters a variety of communities and beliefs. Moving to Illinois, you'll find that the Democratic Party has strong support, especially in metropolitan areas like Chicago, indicating a significant shift in local politics you’ll experience. These differences highlight the importance of understanding and adapting to your new community's cultural nuances.

Education Guide When Moving from Utah to Illinois

Deciding to move your family across state lines involves numerous considerations, especially when it comes to education. This comparison aims to highlight the differences between school options in Utah and Illinois, ensuring you make informed decisions for your children’s academic futures.

UtahIllinois

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

University of Utah
Utah State University
Brigham Young University
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Northwestern University
University of Chicago

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Aveson Charter Schools (Salt Lake City)
The Madeleine Choir School (Salt Lake City)
Hawthorne Elementary School (Salt Lake City)
Lincoln Elementary School (Chicago)
South Loop Elementary School (Chicago)
Edison Regional Gifted Center (Chicago)

Top 3 Middle Schools

Renaissance Academy (Lehi)
Wasatch Junior High (Salt Lake City)
Fort Herriman Middle School (Herriman)
Skinner North Classical School (Chicago)
Daniel Wright Junior High School (Lincolnshire)
Clarendon Hills Middle School (Clarendon Hills)

Top 3 High School Schools

Academy for Math
Engineering & Science (Salt Lake City)
Itineris Early College High (West Jordan)
Northern Utah Academy for Math
Engineering & Science (Layton)
Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (Aurora)
Northside College Preparatory High School (Chicago)
Payton College Preparatory High School (Chicago)

Top 3 private high schools

Rowland Hall (Salt Lake City)
Waterford School (Sandy)
Juan Diego Catholic High School (Draper)
Lake Forest Academy (Lake Forest)
University of Chicago Laboratory Schools (Chicago)
Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (Aurora) - though public
operates similarly to private

Top 3 private K-12 schools

Rowland Hall (Salt Lake City)
Waterford School (Sandy)
Layton Christian Academy (Layton)
Latin School of Chicago (Chicago)
Francis W. Parker School (Chicago)
North Shore Country Day (Winnetka)

Top 3 School Districts

Park City School District
Davis School District
Alpine School District
New Trier Township High School District 203
Naperville Community Unit School District 203
Community High School District 128

When examining the educational landscape of Utah and Illinois, certain distinctions become prominent. For instance, Utah’s top colleges are well-regarded for their engineering and sciences programs, mirroring its high schools' focus on STEM education. In contrast, Illinois boasts institutions like the University of Chicago and Northwestern University, reflecting a broader liberal arts and sciences emphasis. This divergence extends to secondary education as well, where Illinois’ top public and private schools, such as the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy and the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, often emphasize a comprehensive curriculum. Furthermore, both states offer unique educational opportunities, from Utah's dual-language immersion programs to Illinois' historical and culturally rich educational institutions. Hence, your choice between Utah and Illinois schools might come down to the specific academic and cultural environment you deem best for your family.

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