Best Montgomery to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Montgomery to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 721 mile move from Alabama to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 37 Montgomery to Chicago moving companies and more than 20,000 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 $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Montgomery 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.

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Best Montgomery to Chicago Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1606 Movers, Inc.9.379.27Authorized For Property, HHG
2Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHG
3Pink Zebra Moving9.219.28Authorized For HHG
4Two Men and a Truck7.497.24Authorized For HHG
5McCorquodale Transfer, Inc7.457.59Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Montgomery to Chicago?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 721 miles from Montgomery, AL to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,394 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Montgomery to Chicago move is roughly $5,743. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,611300 ft³$5.37
1 Bedroom$2,394450 ft³$5.32
2 Bedrooms$3,953750 ft³$5.27
3 Bedrooms$5,7431100 ft³$5.22
4 Bedrooms$8,2731600 ft³$5.17
5+ Bedrooms$9,2171800 ft³$5.12
*Please note: These Alabama to Illinois moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Alabama & Illinois. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed AL to IL mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Montgomery guide.

Compare the 5 Best Montgomery to Chicago Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

606 Movers, Inc. Logo

606 Movers, Inc.

Exceptional9.37/10
based on 1,042+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Move-tastic! Logo

Move-tastic!

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 13,660+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers28
Total Annual Miles Moved90,866 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Pink Zebra Moving Logo

Pink Zebra Moving

Exceptional9.21/10
based on 245+ data points

630 Oliver Rd b

Montgomery, AL, 36117

About Pink Zebra Moving

Pink Zebra Moving is a service company that revolutionizes the moving industry. They strive to provide a luxurious, stress-free moving experience,...

Services

  • Home Moving Services
  • Apartment/Condo/Townhome Moving Services
  • Furniture Rearranging Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3976058 / 1487303

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Two Men and a Truck Logo

Two Men and a Truck

7.49/10
based on 516+ data points

325 Lee Road 672

Auburn, AL, 36832

About Two Men and a Truck

Two Men and a Truck Auburn-Montgomery has been serving the area for over 15 years. It has now completed 20,000 moves,...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Junk removal
  • Storage

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

930909 / 401062

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans24
Registered Drivers20
Total Annual Miles Moved200,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
McCorquodale Transfer, Inc Logo

McCorquodale Transfer, Inc

7.45/10
based on 141+ data points

520 Air Base Blvd

Montgomery, AL, 36108

About McCorquodale Transfer, Inc

McCorquodale Transfer, Inc. offers the finest in household and office relocation services. It has been serving customers for over 20 years...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Commercial moves
  • Antique transfer

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

713589 / 352161

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans31
Registered Drivers30
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Montgomery vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can feel like navigating uncharted waters. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison between Montgomery, AL & Chicago, IL local neighborhoods . Using Montgomery's top areas as a baseline, we'll help you find a Chicago neighborhood with a similar vibe, making your move a little more familiar.

MontgomeryChicagoHow They're Similar
CloverdaleAndersonvilleEclectic mix of local shops & eateries
Old CloverdaleRavenswoodHistoric, artsy vibe with community focus
Garden DistrictRoscoe VillageQuiet, family-friendly with classic charm
HampsteadLincoln SquareEmphasis on local businesses & green spaces
Pike RoadBeverlyStrong community feel, historic homes
Historic South HullHyde ParkRich history, cultural diversity, educational institutions
Capitol HeightsBridgeportWorking-class heritage, diverse food scene
Forest ParkWicker ParkVibrant nightlife, arts scene, boutique shopping
HalcyonLogan SquareTrendy restaurants, craft cocktail bars
Cottage HillProvidenceClose-knit community, local landmarks

If you're intrigued by the eclectic mix of shops and eateries in Cloverdale, you'll love the vibrant atmosphere of Andersonville. Here, local businesses thrive, offering a range of unique experiences from cozy brunch spots like Lost and Found to historic venues like the Swedish American Museum. For those drawn to the historic and artsy vibe of Old Cloverdale, Ravenswood will feel like home, with its emphasis on community and arts, highlighted by events and local businesses such as Lillstreet Art Center. Meanwhile, the quiet charm of the Garden District is mirrored in Roscoe Village, where family-friendly activities and local eateries like Johnny's Grill offer a tranquil yet engaging lifestyle.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Montgomery to Chicago

Moving from Montgomery, AL to Chicago, IL brings about a significant change in lifestyle, presenting both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Montgomery, AL to Chicago, IL , helping you make a well-informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Montgomery, AL iconMontgomery, AL
  • Smaller City
  • Fewer Job Opportunities
  • Lower Diversity
  • Milder Winters
  • Less Public Transportation
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Larger Urban Area
  • More Job Opportunities
  • Greater Cultural Diversity
  • Lively Winter Season
  • Extensive Public Transit
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher Cost of Living
  • More Crowded
  • Colder Winters
  • More Traffic
Montgomery, AL iconMontgomery, AL
  • Lower Cost of Living
  • More Personal Space
  • Warmer Winters
  • Less Traffic Congestion

While moving from Montgomery to Chicago means trading the comfort of milder winters and a lower cost of living for the excitement of a city with more to do, it's worth examining the details to fully understand this tradeoff. Chicago's extensive public transit system, including the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), offers connections to diverse neighborhoods such as Wicker Park and Hyde Park, where local restaurants like Big Star and cultural sights like the Museum of Science and Industry await. Despite the colder winters, Chicago's winter season is vibrant with activities like ice skating at Millennium Park and attending seasonal events. On the other hand, Montgomery's appeal lies in its slower pace, less expensive living, and warmer winters, catering to those who prefer a more laid-back lifestyle.

Montgomery vs. Chicago Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Montgomery & Chicago to help you understand the food culture awaiting you. Food plays a vital role in the local culture and the overall experience of living in an area. Here's what you need to know about the food scenes in these two cities.

Montgomery
Chicago
Most iconic local food item
Fried Catfish
Deep Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dish
Pulled Pork BBQ
Italian Beef
Most popular street food item
Boiled Peanuts
Chicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan food
Black-Eyed Peas
Seitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Central
  • Dreamland BBQ
  • Jim 'N Nick's
  • Lou Malnati's
  • Au Cheval
  • Girl & The Goat
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
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When moving from Montgomery to Chicago, you'll notice significant differences in the local cuisine. Chicago's food scene is highly diverse, with iconic dishes like deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati's standing out. In contrast, Montgomery offers a taste of the south with its famous Fried Catfish and Pulled Pork BBQ found in places like Dreamland BBQ. Chicago boasts a vibrant street food scene highlighted by the Chicago-style hot dog, a stark contrast to Montgomery's simpler, yet iconic boiled peanuts. Furthermore, Chicago's food scene is more vegan-friendly, with a wealth of options like seitan wings, and scores higher in terms of health-consciousness and the abundance of food trucks, reflecting the city's bustling urban lifestyle.

Montgomery vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

As you make the transition from Montgomery, AL to Chicago, IL, finding those go-to restaurants that make a new city feel like home is crucial. This comparison is designed to help you seamlessly find equivalents in Chicago to your favorite Montgomery eateries , ensuring your culinary experience is uninterrupted. Whether you're in search of a high-end dining experience, a casual bite, or a unique foodie adventure, this guide has you covered.

MontgomeryChicagoWhat You'll Love
CentralAlineaBoth offer an upscale dining experience with innovative dishes
Jubilee SeafoodJoe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabKnown for high-quality seafood and steak
Vintage YearGirl & The GoatBoth are trendy spots known for their creative and upscale menus
Cloverdale Service StationLongman & EagleBoth offer a casual yet trendy dining environment with an excellent bar
Martin’s RestaurantLuella’s Southern KitchenBoth are renowned for their authentic Southern cuisine
El Rey Burrito LoungeXOCOBoth offer high-quality, innovative Mexican dishes in a casual setting
Sa ZaSiena TavernBoth are Italian eateries offering a modern twist on traditional dishes
Derk’s Filet & VinePublican Quality MeatsBoth provide a combination of gourmet shop and restaurant with a focus on meats
Capitol Oyster BarGT Fish & OysterBoth are known for their wide selection of oysters and seafood offerings
Chris’ Hot DogsPortillo'sBoth iconic spots famous for their hot dogs and casual fast-food style eats

Among these noteworthy comparisons, Alinea and Central stand out for their unparalleled approach to fine dining in Chicago and Montgomery respectively. A visit to Alinea is a culinary journey, mirroring Central's dedication to high-quality, innovative cuisine. On the more casual side, El Rey Burrito Lounge and XOCO both celebrate Mexican cuisine with a unique twist, perfect for when you're craving flavors from south of the border. If it’s the taste of the South you're missing, Luella’s Southern Kitchen in Chicago echoes the homestyle cooking of Martin’s Restaurant, promising comfort in every bite. Exploring these Chicago equivalents not only provides a sense of familiarity but also the opportunity to discover new favorites.

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Montgomery vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate markets of your current and future cities is crucial. This guide focuses on moving from Montgomery, AL, to Chicago, IL , highlighting crucial housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle. Knowing how these two cities stack up can help make your transition smoother.

Montgomery
Chicago
Typical Architecture Style
Antebellum and Colonial
Modern and Victorian
Walkability
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Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
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🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Quiet neighborhoods, large backyards
Lake views, proximity to public transit

In moving from Montgomery to Chicago, you'll find a dynamic shift not only in the cost of living but also in the lifestyle. Chicago's higher median home prices and rent reflect its urban density and robust public transit system, offering unparalleled access to a myriad of cultural, entertainment, and dining options. The city's emphasis on walkability and bikeability speaks to an active and environmental consciousness among its residents. Moreover, Chicago's real estate market is diverse, featuring everything from modern high-rises with stunning lake views to historic Victorian homes. These attributes, combined with an urban lifestyle rating significantly higher than Montgomery's, indicate a vibrant city life waiting for you in Chicago.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL

1. Lakeview : You'll love Lakeview's abundance of dog parks and pet-friendly cafes, making it a haven for pet owners.

2. Logan Square : With its sprawling green spaces and community events that welcome pets, Logan Square is perfect for you and your furry friend.

3. West Loop : The West Loop is dotted with pet-friendly apartments and outdoor restaurant patios, where you and your pet can enjoy the vibrant city life together.

Montgomery vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Montgomery, AL to Chicago, IL, understanding the comparison in weather between these locations is crucial. This comparison will help you anticipate the changes and prepare accordingly, particularly because the climates in Montgomery and Chicago vary significantly.

Montgomery
Chicago
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Tornadoes
Blizzards, Tornadoes
Air Quality
Good
Variable
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

91°F / 71°F
83°F / 63°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

57°F / 36°F
32°F / 18°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

53
36
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0.2
36


Moving from Montgomery to Chicago, you'll experience a significant shift in seasonal weather patterns . Chicago's winters are notably colder, introducing you to heavy snowfall contrary to Montgomery's mild winters with negligible snow. Summer in Chicago is milder compared to Montgomery's hot and humid conditions, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. The increase in snowfall could require adjustments in your daily routine and attire, particularly in winter. Understanding these weather derivatives can significantly impact your acclimation to your new city.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Montgomery to Chicago

When planning a move from Montgomery to Chicago, understanding the financial landscape is crucial. This chart compares money and finance-related topics such as cost of living, taxes, and average income, crucial for anyone moving between Montgomery and Chicago. It's a guide to help you gauge how your financial well-being might change.

Montgomery
Chicago
Avg. Household Income
$46,957
$66,576
Cost of Living Index
99.2
116.9
State Income Tax
5
4.95
Avg. Property Tax
0.43
2.16
Avg. Sales Tax
10
10.25
Top 3 Industries
Public Administration, Health Care, Retail
Manufacturing, Retail, Health Services
Affluence
Modest
Higher
Poverty
Higher
Moderate
Homelessness
Low
High

Moving from Montgomery to Chicago, you'll notice distinct differences in the economic landscape. Although the average household income is higher in Chicago, so is the cost of living, particularly in housing expenses reflected by property taxes more than quadruple those in Montgomery. While both cities have their challenges with poverty and homelessness, these issues are more pronounced in urban settings like Chicago. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for planning your finances post-move, especially considering the higher sales tax and the vibrant, yet more expensive, lifestyle that Chicago offers.

Montgomery vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

Welcome to this unique comparison, highlighted by a bold exploration of the politics between Montgomery & Chicago . This comparison offers a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of these cities, providing an insightful snapshot for those contemplating a move.

Montgomery
Chicago
Political Make-up
Conservatively inclined
Liberally inclined
Local Politics
Dominated by the Republican Party
Dominated by the Democratic Party
Religion
Christianity is predominant, with significant Baptist and Methodist communities. First Baptist Church Montgomery
Religious diversity including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and others. Temple Sholom

When you move from Montgomery, AL, to Chicago, IL, you're not just changing your address. You're transitioning between two very different social landscapes. In Montgomery, the community leans more conservative, with local politics predominantly in the hands of the Republican Party. This reflects in the city's policies and social initiatives. On the religious front, Christianity dominates, particularly Baptist and Methodist denominations, influencing the social fabric and community values. Meanwhile, Chicago's political scene is heavily weighted towards the Democratic Party, hosting a more liberal populace. This diversity extends to religion, where the city's residents practice a wide array of beliefs, from Christianity to Judaism, and beyond, making for a more diversified cultural experience. Understanding these differences can help you adjust more smoothly to your new environment.

Montgomery vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Montgomery, AL, to Chicago, IL, involves adjusting to many changes, including what your daily commute and traffic will look like. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Montgomery & Chicago will help you better understand these differences.

Montgomery
Chicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
20
34
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
9 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No, difficult
Yes, feasible

In Montgomery, your daily commute is generally straightforward and less time-consuming with an average commute time significantly shorter than in Chicago. However, the city scores low on the availability of public transit, making it challenging to get by without a car. On the other hand, Chicago offers an extensive public transit system, making it much easier to navigate the city without personal transportation, despite facing heavier traffic congestion. This robust network includes buses and the “L” train system, connecting various neighborhoods and making commuting more manageable. This difference highlights the importance of understanding and adapting to the transportation dynamics of your new city.

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