Best Chicago to Providence Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Chicago to Providence and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 969 mile move from Illinois to Rhode Island go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 47 Chicago to Providence 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 Seven Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago compared to Providence. 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 Chicago to Providence Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Seven Moving9.389.54Authorized For HHG
2606 Movers, Inc.9.379.27Authorized For Property, HHG
3Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHG
4A1 Movers, Inc9.349.57Authorized For HHG
5M&M Moving and Storage Company9.309.22Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 969 miles from Chicago, IL to Providence, RI will cost on average $2,605 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Providence move is roughly $6,258. 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$1,752300 ft³$5.84
1 Bedroom$2,605450 ft³$5.79
2 Bedrooms$4,305750 ft³$5.74
3 Bedrooms$6,2581100 ft³$5.69
4 Bedrooms$9,0231600 ft³$5.64
5+ Bedrooms$10,0611800 ft³$5.59
*Please note: These Illinois to Rhode Island moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Illinois & Rhode Island. 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 IL to RI mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Providence to Chicago guide.

Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Providence Movers

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

Seven Moving Logo

Seven Moving

Exceptional9.38/10
based on 2,149+ data points

7 Strathmore Rd

Brookline, MA, 2445

About Seven Moving

Seven Moving is a professional moving company located in Brookline. It has been in business for over eight years and has...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Office & Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2790199 / 930583

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved40,652 (2024)
View Full Review
1
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
2
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
3
A1 Movers, Inc Logo

A1 Movers, Inc

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 683+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3309154 / 1055273

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved6,800 (2024)
View Full Review
4
M&M Moving and Storage Company Logo

M&M Moving and Storage Company

Exceptional9.30/10
based on 1,719+ data points

15 Walkup Dr

Westborough, MA, 1581

About M&M Moving and Storage Company

Founded in 2006 by two brothers, M&M Moving and Storage Company helps individuals and businesses relocate with its professional moving services...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long-distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2015288 / 709686

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved420,000 (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.

Chicago vs. Providence Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can feel overwhelming, but finding a neighborhood that resonates with your lifestyle and preferences makes the transition easier. To help you get acquainted with Providence, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Providence, RI based on their unique characteristics and vibes. This guide aims to make your move as seamless as possible by mapping out where you might feel most at home.

ChicagoProvidenceHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkCollege HillHistoric architecture, vibrant community life
Wicker ParkFox PointArtsy, with a young, hip vibe
The LoopDowncityCentral business district, rich in arts and culture
Gold CoastBlackstoneUpscale, historic homes and refined dining
AndersonvilleWayland SquareDiverse, with a mix of unique shops and cozy cafes
Hyde ParkElmhurstAcademic atmosphere with historic sites
Logan SquareWest EndCreative and eclectic with a strong sense of community
Old TownHope VillageQuaint with a historic charm, family-friendly
River NorthSmith HillArt-focused with trendy restaurants and galleries
South LoopArmory DistrictLively area with historic architecture and a rich nightlife

For those drawn to the historic and vibrant community life of Lincoln Park, you'll find College Hill's blend of colonial architecture and bustling street life particularly inviting. Here, you can explore a variety of Brown University campus events or take leisurely walks through John Brown House Museum, immersing yourself in the local history. Meanwhile, former Wicker Park residents might appreciate the artsy and eclectic vibe of Fox Point, where cozy cafes like The Ivy Coffee and unique boutiques line the streets, offering a similar feel to Chicago’s hipster haven. If the upscale and historic homes of Gold Coast captured your heart, you’d likely find the elegance of Blackstone’s leafy streets and posh restaurants along Scalini a perfect match, boasting an atmosphere where historical charm seamlessly meets modern luxury.

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Things to Do in Providence

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Providence

Moving from one city to another involves weighing the bad against the good. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on the transition from Chicago, IL to Providence, RI , helping you understand the differences and similarities. By looking at the cons and pros through two distinct charts, we hope to provide a clear snapshot of what this move entails.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher crime rate
  • Colder winters
  • Higher cost of living
  • Heavier traffic
  • Fewer historical sites
Providence, RI iconProvidence, RI
  • Lower crime rate
  • Milder winters
  • More affordable
  • Lesser traffic
  • Rich in history
Providence, RI iconProvidence, RI
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Smaller transit system
  • Lesser culinary variety
  • Smaller job market
  • Fewer cultural attractions
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Extensive public transit
  • Diverse culinary scene
  • Larger job market
  • Broad cultural attractions

Understanding the pros and cons of moving from Chicago to Providence involves more than just looking at crime rates and weather patterns; it's about gauging the lifestyle and opportunities each city presents. For example, Chicago’s vibrant nightlife offers countless options for entertainment—from legendary music venues like City Winery to bustling districts such as Logan Square. Conversely, Providence offers a quieter, albeit culturally rich, lifestyle with historical delights like RISD Museum and scenic locales such as Waterplace Park. While Chicago's extensive network of public transit overshadows Providence's smaller system, the latter counters with a more affordable cost of living and less traffic congestion, making commutes and daily life more relaxed. Ultimately, this move entails transitioning from a bustling metropolis to a city where history and culture intertwine amidst a more tranquil setting.

Chicago vs. Providence Food Guide

When relocating, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the local culture, and nothing represents that more than food. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Providence to give you a taste of what culinary delights await in your new city.

Chicago
Providence
Most iconic local food item
Deep Dish Pizza
Clam Cakes
Most popular meat dish
Italian Beef
Grilled Pizza
Most popular street food item
Chicago-style Hot Dog
Stuffies
Most popular vegan food
Seitan
Jackfruit Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Alinea
  • Portillo's
  • Al Forno
  • Hemenway's
  • Nick's on Broadway
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In your move from Chicago to Providence, you'll transition from the hearty, meat-heavy delicacies like the world-famous Deep Dish Pizza to the seafood-centric offerings such as Clam Cakes, reflective of Providence's coastal heritage. The vibrant foodie scene in both cities offers something for everyone, from street food enthusiasts to vegan diners. In Providence, places like Al Forno for grilled pizza and Hemenway's for fresh seafood are must-visits, encapsulating the city's culinary spirit. Moreover, Providence's slightly higher health-conscious rating suggests you might find more health-oriented menus and options throughout the city.

Chicago vs. Providence Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite eatery is a vital part of making a new area feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition by comparing top restaurants in Chicago to Providence , guiding you towards new culinary delights in your new city.

ChicagoProvidenceWhat You'll Love
AlineaGracie'sHigh-end dining with a focus on seasonal tasting menus
Portillo'sOlneyville New York SystemIconic for its hot wiener and casual dining experience
Girl & The GoatNorthInnovative dishes in a foodie-centric, casual atmosphere
Pub RoyaleThe EddyPub vibes with a diverse selection of drinks and upscale bar food
The Purple PigProvidence Coal Fired PizzaOffers unique, coal-fired pizzas with an affordable yet high-quality dining experience
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabHemenway'sSeafood and steak with an emphasis on quality and freshness
Rick Bayless's Frontera GrillTallulah's TaqueriaAuthentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and traditional flavors
Smoque BBQDurk's Bar•B•QCommitted to the art of smoked meats and Southern sides
Pequod's PizzaCassarino'sKnown for its deep-dish pizza with a local twist
The Berghoff RestaurantHaven Brothers DinerAmerica's oldest diner offering a historic dining experience with its iconic menu items

For those who relish high-end dining, Gracie's in Providence stands as a beacon of culinary excellence, echoing the innovative and meticulously crafted tasting menus of Alinea in Chicago. On the more casual side, The Eddy in Providence offers a pub-like atmosphere with an eclectic range of upscale bar food and drinks, mirroring the laid-back yet refined experience found at Pub Royale. For pizza aficionados missing the beloved pies from Pequod's, Cassarino's in Providence offers a local interpretation of deep-dish pizza that promises to satisfy those deep cravings. Each establishment in Providence not only matches the culinary standards set by their Chicago counterparts but also contributes its unique flair to the dining experience, ensuring you feel right at home in your new city.

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Chicago vs. Providence Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is pivotal when transitioning to a new city, making it crucial to understand how Chicago, IL and Providence, RI stack up against each other in terms of housing. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in housing costs , architecture , walkability , and overall urban lifestyle to aid in your moving decision.

Chicago
Providence
Typical Architecture Style
Gothic Revival & Modern
Colonial & Victorian
Walkability
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Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Lake views, proximity to public transport
Historical charm, near colleges

When comparing housing between Chicago and Providence, it's important to note that while the median home price is slightly higher in Providence, the monthly rent tends to be more affordable. This might appeal to renters looking for a cost-effective living situation. Chicago's urban lifestyle scores higher due to its vibrant city life and higher walkability and bikeability scores, reflecting its extensive public transportation system and bike-friendly policies. In contrast, Providence showcases a rich tapestry of historical architecture, with Colonial and Victorian styles prevalent throughout the city, appealing to those who value charm and history. A common point in Providence real estate listings is their proximity to prestigious colleges and the city's historical charm, contrasting with Chicago's listings that often highlight modern amenities and convenient access to public transport and lake views.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Providence, RI

1. East Side : You’ll love the East Side for its plenty of parks and green spaces, like Blackstone Boulevard, perfect for dog walks and outdoor activities.

2. Wayland : With proximity to India Point Park, this neighborhood offers you accessible scenic waterfront areas for you and your pets to enjoy leisurely strolls.

3. Fox Point : This vibrant neighborhood is ideal for you as it provides numerous pet-friendly cafes and shops, welcoming you and your furry friends with open arms.

Chicago vs. Providence Weather Considerations

When you're planning to move from Chicago, IL to Providence, RI, it's crucial to understand how the weather will change. This comparison aims to help you grasp the differences in climate, enabling you to prepare for your new home. Specifically, we will examine how Chicago's weather compares with Providence's weather across various dimensions.

Chicago
Providence
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
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💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Blizzards, Floods
Hurricanes, Winter Storms
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85/65
82/63
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

36/22
37/20


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

36
47
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

36
33


Moving from Chicago to Providence will bring some notable weather changes. While the average summer and winter temperatures are quite similar, Providence enjoys a higher number of sunny days per year. However, Providence experiences more annual rainfall, which contributes to its crisp, clean air quality, regarded as 'Good' compared to Chicago's 'Moderate' rating. Another point of consideration is the natural disaster risks; while Chicago faces blizzards and floods, Providence is more prone to hurricanes and severe winter storms, requiring different preparation and response plans.

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it's vital to comprehend the financial implications to make an informed decision. This comparison between Chicago, IL and Providence, RI will shed light on diverse economic aspects to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of living expenses and financial opportunities.

Chicago
Providence
Avg. Household Income
$66,576
$60,970
Cost of Living Index
116.9
123.3
State Income Tax
4.95
3.75 to 5.99
Avg. Property Tax
2.13
1.53
Avg. Sales Tax
10.25
7
Top 3 Industries
Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology
Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing
Affluence
Medium
Medium
Poverty
High
High
Homelessness
Significant
Considerable

Moving from Chicago to Providence you'll find that despite the average household income being slightly lower in Providence, the cost of living index is notably higher. This might initially be a concern; however, the diversity in the top industries in Providence, like healthcare and education, can offer unique employment opportunities not as prevalent in Chicago. Furthermore, while both cities have comparable levels of affluence and poverty, Providence's lower average property tax could potentially offset some of the increased living expenses seen in other areas.

Chicago vs. Providence Political & Religious Comparison

When moving from Chicago, IL to Providence, RI, it's essential to grasp a quick snapshot of the area you're leaving and the one you're heading towards. This comparison focuses on the politics and religious makeup of Chicago & Providence , giving you a clear picture of the communities in both cities.

Chicago
Providence
Political Make-up
Democratic
Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive with strong union influence
Liberal, with a focus on community engagement
Religion
Diverse; Catholicism, Protestantism, Islam, and Judaism
Primarily Catholic, with a mix of other Christian denominations and faiths

In both Chicago and Providence, you'll find a Democratic political leaning among residents, though the local political landscape and priorities can vary significantly. Chicago is known for its progressive stance, deeply influenced by labor unions and strong advocacy groups. By contrast, Providence politics are noted for their liberal bend, with a significant emphasis on community engagement and local activism. Religious diversity is a hallmark of Chicago, providing a broad spectrum of faith communities including Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, and Jewish congregations. Providence, while also religiously diverse, has a notably high percentage of Catholic residents compared to other demographics. This mix of political and religious atmospheres between your old and new homes may offer both familiar and new community aspects to explore and integrate into.

Chicago vs. Providence Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Chicago, IL to Providence, RI? Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Providence will give you a better idea of what your daily commute and traffic experiences could be like. This comparison aims to prepare you for the transition.

Chicago
Providence
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
34
25
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Yes
Yes, with some limitations

In Chicago, you'll notice a reliance on an expansive public transit system, including the L train and buses, that makes getting around without a car manageable for most residents, evidenced by an availability score of 8 out of 10. The average commute time is also higher, at 34 minutes. In contrast, Providence, while smaller, offers a less congested experience with a lower traffic score of 4 out of 10 and a shorter average commute time of 25 minutes. However, its public transit system, though serviceable, doesn't cover as broad an area or offer the same frequency of service as Chicago, leading to a score of 6 out of 10. This indicates that while you can get by without a car in Providence, you might find it more challenging than in Chicago.

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