Best Chicago to Fort Wayne Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Fort Wayne and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 163 mile move from Illinois to Indiana go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 37 Chicago to Fort Wayne 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 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago compared to Fort Wayne. 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.
Best Chicago to Fort Wayne Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.37 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
| 2 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG |
| 3 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.34 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | MVM Moving & Storage | 9.24 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG |
| 5 | Two Men and a Truck | 7.50 | 6.92 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Chicago to Fort Wayne?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 163 miles from Chicago, IL to Fort Wayne, IN will cost on average $1,920 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Fort Wayne move is roughly $4,583. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,295 | 300 ft³ | $4.32 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,920 | 450 ft³ | $4.27 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,162 | 750 ft³ | $4.22 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,583 | 1100 ft³ | $4.17 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,586 | 1600 ft³ | $4.12 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,319 | 1800 ft³ | $4.07 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Fort Wayne to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Fort Wayne Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
606 Movers, Inc.
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3476069 / 1139300 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Move-tastic!
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1906350 / 675927 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 28 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,866 (2023) |
A1 Movers, Inc
315 S Harrison St
Geneva, IL, 60134
About A1 Movers, Inc
A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company...
Services
- LOCAL MOVES
- LONG DISTANCE MOVES
- PACKING SERVICES
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3309154 / 1055273 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,800 (2024) |
MVM Moving & Storage
6429 Highview Dr
Fort Wayne, IN, 46818
About MVM Moving & Storage
Since 2006, MVM Moving and Storage has been assisting residents of Fort Wayne, IN, streamline their relocation process with its cost-effective...
Services
- Residential Move
- Commercial Move
- Local Move
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3098388 / 76046 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 75,000 (2021) |
Two Men and a Truck
321 Ley Rd
Fort Wayne, IN, 46825
About Two Men and a Truck
Two Men and a Truck has locations across the country, with its Fort Wayne location opening in 2005. This nationally-recognized moving...
Services
- Local moving
- Junk removal
- Storage
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1319267 / 510634 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 7 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 222,778 (2023) |
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.
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.
Chicago vs. Fort Wayne Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially when relocating to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we'll compare the Chicago, IL & Fort Wayne, IN local neighborhoods , highlighting similarities between popular areas in each city. This comparison aims to help you find a new neighborhood that feels like home.
| Chicago | Fort Wayne | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | West Central | Historic charm, lively arts scene |
| Wicker Park | North Anthony | Diverse, vibrant community vibes |
| Gold Coast | Sycamore Hills | Affluent, stately homes |
| South Loop | Southwood Park | Family-friendly, good for professionals |
| Andersonville | Sherwood Terrace | Quaint, strong sense of community |
| Lakeview | Aboite Lake Estates | Vibrant retail and nightlife |
| Logan Square | Pine Valley | Artsy with a mix of urban and suburban |
| Hyde Park | Old Trail | Rich in history and culture |
| River North | Covington Pines | Upscale, with a bustling scene |
| Bridgeport | Illsley Place | Diverse, community-focused |
Lincoln Park's appeal, with its blend of historic charm, lush parks, and vibrant arts scene, finds a parallel in Fort Wayne’s West Central neighborhood. Embraced for its historic architecture and lively cultural offerings, West Central enables residents to enjoy a variety of outdoor and entertainment options, much like its Chicago counterpart. Additionally, Wicker Park's reputation for diversity and arts is mirrored in Fort Wayne's North Anthony area. Here, residents celebrate a vibrant community scene, underscored by unique local shops and cafes, fostering a similar cultural richness. For those appreciating Gold Coast's affluent atmosphere, Sycamore Hills presents an equally stately setting in Fort Wayne, complete with sprawling homes and manicured landscapes. This comparison offers a glimpse into how each Fort Wayne neighborhood echoes the distinct personality and lifestyle of its Chicago equivalent, promising a smooth transition for those making the move.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Fort Wayne
Moving can be a significant life change, and it's essential to consider both the benefits and drawbacks. This guide is designed to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Fort Wayne, IN . By comparing the cons against the pros and vice versa, you'll gain a comprehensive view to help make an informed decision about your move.
Chicago, IL- Higher cost of living
- Dense traffic
- Cold winters
- Noise pollution
Fort Wayne, IN- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- Milder winters
- Quieter living
Fort Wayne, IN- Quieter nightlife
- Less diversity
- Limited public transport
- Fewer attractions
Chicago, IL- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse restaurants
- Extensive public transport
- Cultural attractions
Moving from Chicago to Fort Wayne presents a considerable lifestyle change, primarily due to differences in urban density and living costs. Chicago's vibrant nightlife is highlighted by legendary establishments like The Violet Hour and the ever-thriving Second City, unparalleled in Fort Wayne. However, Fort Wayne offers a unique charm with its burgeoning restaurant scene, including gems like Tolon, and the peace found in its expansive neighborhood parks such as Foster Park. While you might miss the extensive CTA system of Chicago, Fort Wayne's ease of navigation and lack of congestion offer a welcome respite. This move might require adjustments, but each city presents a trade-off between the hustle and bustle of a big city and the tranquility of a smaller community.
Chicago vs. Fort Wayne Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Fort Wayne because food deeply influences the cultural atmosphere and lifestyle of any area. By understanding the culinary scene of both cities, you can better decide where your next meal adventures should begin as you plan your move.
- Au Cheval
- Girl & The Goat
- Frontera Grill
- Club Soda
- Tolon
- Cindy's Diner
In Chicago, the culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, with deep-dish pizza and the Italian Beef Sandwich standing out as iconic dishes that you must try. These can be found across the city, but for a truly memorable dining experience, neighborhoods like West Loop and River North offer an abundance of choices, including high-end restaurants like Girl & The Goat. On the other hand, Fort Wayne offers a cozier but equally passionate food scene, where the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich reigns supreme. Downtown Fort Wayne is blossoming with eateries like Tolon and Club Soda, showcasing the city's culinary growth and innovation, especially in creating cozy but sophisticated dining experiences. Whether you're craving street food or a fine dining experience, both cities cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.
Chicago vs. Fort Wayne Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your next favorite eatery. This restaurant comparison aims to bridge the culinary journey from Chicago, IL to Fort Wayne, IN , assisting you in uncovering similar dining experiences that resonate with your Chicago favorites.
| Chicago | Fort Wayne | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Copper Spoon | High-end, innovative dishes mimic Alinea's culinary creativity |
| Girl & The Goat | Tolon | Similarly focuses on eclectic, farm-to-table fare |
| Portillo's | Coney Island Wiener Stand | Iconic hot dog spot echoing Chicago’s love for hot dogs |
| Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | 800 Degrees Three Fires | Neapolitan pizza style reminiscent of Lou Malnati's deep dish |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Paula's On Main | Seafood and steak quality that rivals Joe's upscale offerings |
| The Purple Pig | Wine Down | Offers a similar wine bar experience with exquisite small plates |
| Rick Bayless' Frontera Grill | Don Chava's Mexican Grill | Authentic Mexican cuisine that pays homage to Frontera Grill’s flavors |
| Giordano's | Oley's Pizza | Offers a deep-dish pizza that competes with Giordano's famed pies |
| The Signature Room at the 95th | Club Soda | A sophisticated dining experience with stunning views somewhat reminiscent of The Signature Room |
| Smoque BBQ | Shigs In Pit BBQ | Delivers on the promise of mouth-watering BBQ, akin to Smoque’s offerings |
As you make your move from the bustling city of Chicago to the welcoming arms of Fort Wayne, consider indulging in the flavors of Tolon where the farm-to-table concept truly shines, much like Chicago's Girl & The Goat. For those deep-dish pizza cravings that know no bounds, Oley's Pizza serves an admirable contender to Chicago's iconic Giordano’s, promising a slice of comfort with every bite. And when the desire for refined dining strikes, Copper Spoon stands as a beacon of culinary creativity, echoing the high-end experience found at Alinea. Each restaurant in Fort Wayne not only offers a taste reminiscent of Chicago’s diverse culinary scene but also encapsulates the warm Hoosier hospitality that makes Fort Wayne feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Fort Wayne Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's important to know how the two cities compare. In this guide, we'll delve into the key factors that shape the real estate landscape between Chicago, IL and Fort Wayne, IN , covering aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle to aid in your decision-making process.
Moving from Chicago to Fort Wayne can feel like a significant lifestyle change, particularly when considering housing aspects. In Chicago, you're looking at a diverse mix of modern and traditional architecture, higher home prices, and rent but with the benefits of a highly walkable and bikeable urban environment. Attractions like The Field Museum and extensive public transit options underscore its city vibe. Conversely, Fort Wayne offers a more suburban appeal, with more affordable housing, larger yard spaces prime for families, and a quieter lifestyle. Though it's less walkable, Fort Wayne has its charms, including a strong community feel and attractions like the Promenade Park, enhancing its living quality.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Fort Wayne, IN
1. West Central : You'll love the spacious parks and walking trails that make it easy for you and your pet to enjoy the outdoors together.
2. Foster Park : Foster Park offers plenty of green space and dog-friendly areas for you to explore with your furry friend.
3. North Anthony : With numerous pet-friendly cafes and a welcoming community, you can enjoy quality time with your pet in North Anthony.
Chicago vs. Fort Wayne Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Chicago, IL to Fort Wayne, IN, it's crucial to grasp how the weather in your new city compares to what you're accustomed to. This comparison will help you understand the climate differences between Chicago and Fort Wayne, ensuring no surprises as you transition to your new home.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
The weather in Fort Wayne is quite similar to Chicago, with small differences in annual rainfall and snowfall, which could impact how often you'll need your umbrella or snow shovel. While the temperature ranges are relatively the same, Fort Wayne experiences slightly fewer days of sunshine per year, which may affect your outdoor activities. Notably, both cities experience a moderate level of humidity and UV index, which will make the adaptation to your new climate smoother. The air quality and top seasonal allergies are similar in both cities, making it easier for you to plan ahead for any sensitivities or health concerns you may have.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Fort Wayne
Moving from one location to another requires understanding the financial differences you'll encounter. Comparing Chicago, IL to Fort Wayne, IN highlights the changes in living costs, taxes, and economic environments one might expect. This knowledge is key to making an informed decision about your relocation.
In comparing Chicago to Fort Wayne, there are notable distinctions in cost of living, taxes, and the economic landscape. Chicago, with its higher average household income, also presents a steeper cost of living and higher taxes, including sales and property taxes, a reflection of its urban economic environment. On the other hand, Fort Wayne offers a more modest cost of living, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle while still benefiting from a diverse economic base. These differences are important as they affect your daily life, from how much you pay at the checkout counter to the portion of your income that goes to taxes. The transition from a larger to a smaller urban area may offer financial relief and opportunities for a different quality of life.
Chicago vs. Fort Wayne Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Chicago, IL to Fort Wayne, IN, understanding the social landscape you're transitioning into is key. This includes a comparison of the politics between Chicago & Fort Wayne, providing a quick snapshot of the political leanings and religious inclinations of your new neighbors. Let's dive deeper into how these cities compare in these aspects.
When you move from Chicago to Fort Wayne, you'll notice a significant shift in the local political and religious atmosphere. Chicago, with its Democratic stronghold, contrasts with Fort Wayne's more balanced political scene, which leans more Republican. This could affect local policies and community initiatives in ways that may be new to you. Additionally, while both cities embrace religious diversity, Christianity plays a more dominant role in Fort Wayne's social fabric. Understanding these differences will help you adjust more smoothly to your new home.
Chicago vs. Fort Wayne Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chicago, IL to Fort Wayne, IN, it's crucial to understand the daily commute and traffic differences. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Fort Wayne will highlight what you can expect as you transition between these cities.
In Chicago, your commute might tie into a broad network of public transportation options, such as CTA buses and trains, making it feasible to navigate the city without owning a vehicle. On the other hand, living in Fort Wayne significantly leans on having a car due to its limited public transit services and the widespread nature of the city. While Chicago's traffic congestion is notably higher, the efficient public transit system somewhat mitigates the impact on daily commutes. Conversely, Fort Wayne's lighter traffic doesn't necessarily equate to quicker commutes, given the sparse public transportation options.
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