Best Chicago to Chattanooga Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Chicago to Chattanooga and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 602 mile move from Illinois to Tennessee go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 41 Chicago to Chattanooga 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 Chicago compared to Chattanooga. 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 Chattanooga Moving Companies
Rank | Company | 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 | Boundless Moving & Storage | 9.34 | 9.36 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
5 | Smooth Moving & Storage | 8.97 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from Chicago to Chattanooga?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 602 miles from Chicago, IL to Chattanooga, TN will cost on average $2,293 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Chattanooga move is roughly $5,495. 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 | $1,544 | 300 ft³ | $5.15 |
1 Bedroom | $2,293 | 450 ft³ | $5.10 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,784 | 750 ft³ | $5.05 |
3 Bedrooms | $5,495 | 1100 ft³ | $5.00 |
4 Bedrooms | $7,913 | 1600 ft³ | $4.95 |
5+ Bedrooms | $8,813 | 1800 ft³ | $4.90 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chattanooga to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Chattanooga 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) |

Boundless Moving & Storage
5595 N. Lee Hwy
Cleveland, TN, 37312
About Boundless Moving & Storage
Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2798532 / 934519 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 358,520 (2022) |

Smooth Moving & Storage
3620 Trousdale Dr
Nashville, TN, 37204
About Smooth Moving & Storage
Smooth Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering professional, reliable, and stress-free moving...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Residential moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2472874 / 1244900 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
Registered Drivers | 2 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (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. Chattanooga Neighborhood Comparison
Planning a move can be daunting, especially when diving into a new city's neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we're here to offer a unique guide comparing Chicago, IL & Chattanooga, TN neighborhoods . This comparison aims to help you find areas in Chattanooga that resonate with your lifestyle and preferences in Chicago, providing a smoother relocation experience.
Chicago | Chattanooga | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Lincoln Park | North Shore | Vibrant arts scene, family-friendly |
Wicker Park | Southside | Trendy eateries, vibrant nightlife |
The Loop | Downtown Chattanooga | Business hub, cultural attractions |
Gold Coast | Riverview | Upscale living, exclusive boutiques |
Hyde Park | St. Elmo | Historic charm, diverse community |
Andersonville | Bluff View Art District | Cultural enclave, artisanal offerings |
River North | Warehouse Row | Fashionable shops, urban loft living |
Logan Square | Highland Park | Artsy, with historic homes |
Lakeview | Signal Mountain | Family-oriented, outdoor activities |
Pilsen | East Brainerd | Diverse cultural experiences, dining options |
In Chicago, the vibrancy and culture of Lincoln Park find a match in Chattanooga's North Shore, known for its scenic views and rich arts scene, including spots like The Hunter Museum of American Art. If nightlife and trendy dining are what draw you to Wicker Park, you'll find a similar spirit in Chattanooga's Southside, boasting popular eateries like Alleia. For those attracted to the urban allure and convenience of The Loop, Downtown Chattanooga encapsulates a comparable essence with its array of businesses and cultural attractions such as the Tennessee Aquarium. Riverview's exclusive boutiques and upscale atmosphere echo the Gold Coast's luxury, while St. Elmo's historic charm offers a nod to Hyde Park's eclectic and diverse background. This comparison aims not just to highlight similarities but also to honor what makes each neighborhood unique, providing a bridge between your current and future communities.

Things to Do in Chattanooga
- Explore Tennessee Aquarium
- Hike Lookout Mountain
- Visit Ruby Falls
- Ride the Incline Railway
- Stroll through Bluff View Art District
- Shop at Chattanooga Market
- Attend a Chattanooga FC soccer game
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Chattanooga
Moving from one city to another can be a challenging decision, packed with both excitement and apprehension. The purpose of the following charts is to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Chattanooga, TN. By comparing the cons to the pros and vice versa, we aim to offer valuable insights that can help guide your decision-making process.
- High cost of living
- Cold winters
- Heavy traffic
- Higher crime rates
- Less green space
- Lower cost of living
- Milder winters
- Less congestion
- Lower crime rates
- More outdoor activities
- Smaller cultural scene
- Narrower job market
- Limited public transit
- Fewer high-end dining options
- Less historical depth
- Diverse culture
- Broad job market
- Extensive public transit
- World-class dining
- Rich in history
Moving to Chattanooga from Chicago, you'll notice a remarkable shift in your daily reality. The frigid Chicago winters give way to the milder climate of Chattanooga, where outdoor enthusiasts thrive, exploring places like the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park. The heavy congestion of Chicago's streets becomes a memory with Chattanooga's ease of navigation, making trips to popular spots like the breathtaking Tennessee Aquarium and vibrant NorthShore district a breeze. And while Chicago's dining scene is hard to beat, Chattanooga offers its own unique flavors with restaurants like Aretha Frankensteins and Alleia, sure to delight any foodie. Lower cost of living and a close-knit community feel in Chattanooga contrast sharply with Chicago's bustling urban life, presenting an inviting opportunity for those seeking change.
Chicago vs. Chattanooga Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Chattanooga highlights the distinct flavor profiles and dining scenes you’ll delve into. From iconic dishes to the vibrancy of the foodie culture, this guide is your compass to navigating the culinary landscapes of your new city.
- Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
- Alinea
- Portillo's
- Allen Family Barbecue
- Hennen's
- Aretha Frankenstein’s
In Chicago, the deep dish pizza reigns supreme, with historic eateries like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria leading the charge in showcasing the city's iconic culinary masterpiece. Meanwhile, Chattanooga’s barbecue scene, particularly the smoked pork served at venues like Allen Family Barbecue, offers a taste of Southern tradition that’s hard to beat. Chattanooga Dogs, a local take on street food, reflects the city’s love for reinvented classics. Furthermore, health-conscious eats are on the rise in both cities, with Chattanooga slightly leading in overall fitness and health conscientiousness. For vegans, Chattanooga's Aretha Frankenstein’s offers innovative plant-based dishes, proving that the South can do more than just traditional barbecue.
Chicago vs. Chattanooga Restaurant Comparison
Food is integral to making somewhere feel like home. This restaurant comparison aims to ease the transition from Chicago, IL to Chattanooga, TN. By using Chicago to Chattanooga restaurant comparison as your culinary guide , you'll discover new local haunts that replicate the vibe and cuisine of your old Chicago favorites, ensuring the move feels as seamless as possible.
Chicago | Chattanooga | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Alinea | St. John's Restaurant | Upscale dining with innovative dishes. |
Portillo's Hot Dogs | Good Dog | Quirky, casual spot for elevated hot dogs. |
Girl & The Goat | Alleia | Rustic, inventive Italian cuisine, akin to Girl & The Goat's approach. |
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Lupi's Pizza Pies | Authentic, family-friendly pizzeria with a local vibe. |
The Purple Pig | Public House | Offers a variety of shared plates in a relaxed setting. |
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Boathouse Rotisserie & Raw Bar | Fresh seafood and prime meats with a view. |
Smoque BBQ | Charlie’s BBQ & Bakery | Known for slow-cooked meats and homemade sides. |
Rick Bayless' Frontera Grill | Taconooga | Offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients. |
The Berghoff Restaurant | Walden Club | While not German, it offers an iconic dining experience with history. |
Au Cheval | Tremont Tavern | Renowned for their gourmet burgers in a cozy tavern setting. |
Chicago and Chattanooga offer diverse culinary landscapes, each with its unique charm. In Chattanooga, St. John's Restaurant mirrors the high-end feel of Alinea, albeit with its own Southern flair, making it perfect for those special dining occasions. If it's the casual, yet iconic vibe of Portillo's you're missing, Good Dog fills that void with an array of unique hot dog creations and a laid-back atmosphere. For pizza lovers lamenting their distance from Lou Malnati's, Lupi's Pizza Pies offers handmade pizzas that echo the quality and comfort found back in Chicago. Each Chattanooga establishment brings a taste of Chicago's culinary spirit, paired with local Tennessee charm, making the transition just a little easier for newcomers.

Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Chattanooga Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing real estate between your current city and future home is essential. Knowing how Chicago and Chattanooga stack up against each other in terms of housing cost, architecture, walkability , and urban lifestyle can significantly inform your decision. Let's delve into these aspects to better understand your potential new surroundings.
When comparing housing aspects between Chicago and Chattanooga, it's clear that each city offers a unique living experience. Chicago's higher walkability and urban lifestyle scores reflect its dense, bustling cityscape which is complemented by modern architecture and a wealth of amenities - a big draw for those seeking a vibrant city life. On the other hand, Chattanooga prides itself on its scenic views and privacy, reflected in its prevalent bungalow and craftsman-style homes. The significant difference in median home prices and rent also indicates Chattanooga's more affordable living conditions. Choosing between the two cities might come down to what you value more: the hustle and dynamism of Chicago or the scenic, laid-back charm of Chattanooga.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chattanooga, TN
1. North Chattanooga : You’ll enjoy numerous parks and dog-friendly trails, making it an ideal spot for your furry friends to explore.
2. St. Elmo : With its welcoming community and access to pet-friendly events, you’ll find it easy to include your pets in local activities.
3. Southside : Known for its array of pet-friendly restaurants and cafes, you and your pets can enjoy the vibrant neighborhood together.
Chicago vs. Chattanooga Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This comparison will help you gauge how life in Chicago, IL differs from Chattanooga, TN in terms of climate. From average temperatures and humidity to natural disasters and air quality, knowing what to expect can make your transition smoother.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from Chicago to Chattanooga brings a notable change in weather, particularly in terms of temperature and precipitation. Chattanooga enjoys milder winters and slightly warmer summers than Chicago, coupled with more days of sunshine, which might be a welcome change for those used to Chicago's often harsh winters. However, this comes with higher annual rainfall in Chattanooga, enhancing the greenery but also increasing humidity and mold, which might affect those with allergies. While both cities grapple with their share of natural disasters, Chattanooga's risk of tornadoes and floods contrasts with the cold-related events more common in Chicago, necessitating different preparedness measures.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Chattanooga
When relocating, it’s essential to grasp how financial aspects will shift. This comparison aims to illuminate the variations in financial factors between moving from Chicago, IL to Chattanooga, TN, offering a clearer picture of what to expect economically in your new home.
While both cities offer unique economic landscapes, key differences emerge in cost-related factors. For example, Chicago's higher average household income is contextually balanced by a higher cost of living than Chattanooga. Notably, Chattanooga does not impose a state income tax, which could result in significant savings for you. Furthermore, the lower property taxes in Chattanooga may make home-ownership more attainable and financially beneficial in the long term. These economic conditions reflect the broader industrial and fiscal environment that shapes each city, with Chattanooga offering a potentially more affordable living situation without compromising on employment opportunities in thriving sectors.
Chicago vs. Chattanooga Political & Religious Comparison
If you're planning a move, it's useful to understand the community you're joining. This comparison provides a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of the residents in Chicago, IL & Chattanooga, TN . Knowing these aspects can help you better integrate and find your niche in your new home.
When moving from Chicago to Chattanooga, you'll transition from a city known for its Democratic leanings to one that traditionally aligns more conservatively, although recent years have seen a progressive increase in representation within local politics in Chattanooga. Chicago's religious landscape is broad, reflecting its multicultural population, with significant Jewish, Muslim, and various Christian denominations present. In contrast, Chattanooga has a stronger evangelical Christian presence, though like Chicago, it is home to a variety of faiths. This contrast in political and religious atmospheres can offer a fresh perspective and new opportunities for community involvement and understanding.
Chicago vs. Chattanooga Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can feel like navigating a maze, especially when it comes to understanding local transportation dynamics. This guide aims to ease the transition by providing a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Chattanooga, helping to better understand what your daily commute and traffic might be like in your new home.
Living in Chicago, you might be accustomed to robust public transportation options, such as the extensive CTA system, that make it feasible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. The average commute time reflects the city's dense traffic patterns, yet the convenience of public transit somewhat alleviates this. On the other hand, moving to Chattanooga introduces a different dynamic. With less traffic congestion and a shorter average commute time, the city presents a smoother driving experience. However, the public transit system is not as developed as Chicago's, making car ownership almost a necessity for getting around efficiently. This comparison sheds light on essential considerations for your daily commute and overall lifestyle adjustment in your new city.



Additional Resources
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