Best Knoxville to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Knoxville to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 546 mile move from Tennessee to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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.

Best Knoxville to Chicago Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Knoxville 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
3Boundless Moving & Storage9.349.36Authorized For Property, HHG
4Buster’s Box’s Moving9.019.01Authorized For Property, HHG
5Gouffon Moving & Storage8.678.72Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 546 miles from Knoxville, TN to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,246 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Knoxville to Chicago move is roughly $5,379. 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$1,512300 ft³$5.04
1 Bedroom$2,246450 ft³$4.99
2 Bedrooms$3,705750 ft³$4.94
3 Bedrooms$5,3791100 ft³$4.89
4 Bedrooms$7,7441600 ft³$4.84
5+ Bedrooms$8,6221800 ft³$4.79
*Please note: These Tennessee to Illinois moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Tennessee & 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 TN to IL mover.
Tennessee iconArrow iconIllinois icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Knoxville guide.

Compare the 5 Best Knoxville 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
Boundless Moving & Storage Logo

Boundless Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,230+ data points

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

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2798532 / 934519

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved358,520 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Buster’s Box’s Moving Logo

Buster’s Box’s Moving

Superb9.01/10
based on 395+ data points

5927 John May Dr

Knoxville, TN, 37921

About Buster’s Box’s Moving

Buster’s Box’s Moving is a Knoxville, TN-based moving company that offers a variety of services including local moves, out of state...

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Commercial moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

4125824 / 1578852

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Gouffon Moving & Storage Logo

Gouffon Moving & Storage

Fabulous8.67/10
based on 919+ data points

1520 Amherst Rd

Knoxville, TN, 37909

About Gouffon Moving & Storage

Family-owned and operated for more than 134 years, Gouffon Moving & Storage offers personalized residential and office moves in East Tennessee....

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

553340 / 273542

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans17
Registered Drivers13
Total Annual Miles Moved385,000 (2021)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

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.

Knoxville vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. This guide aims to ease that transition by comparing the local neighborhoods between Knoxville, TN & Chicago, IL . We'll highlight top neighborhoods in Knoxville and their most comparable counterparts in Chicago, helping you find a new home that feels familiar.

KnoxvilleChicagoHow They're Similar
Sequoyah HillsLincoln ParkLush parks, family-friendly
Fort SandersWicker ParkVibrant nightlife, arts scene
Fourth & GillLogan SquareHistoric homes, strong community
BeardenAndersonvilleEclectic shopping, diversity
WestmorelandHyde ParkCultural attractions, universities
Old CityWest LoopTrendy restaurants, urban feel
FarragutRoscoe VillageQuiet, family-oriented
Island Home ParkRavenswoodCommunity-focused, green space
North HillsBridgeportHistoric, diverse community
Downtown KnoxvilleThe LoopHeart of the city, cultural landmarks

In focusing on the vibrant yet community-driven atmosphere of both city's neighborhoods, we see unique yet distinct parallels. For instance, Logan Square mirrors Fourth & Gill with its historic homes and a palpable sense of community, an appealing aspect for those who cherish neighborhood unity and architectural charm. On the other hand, if the trendy, pulsating energy of Old City entices you, West Loop in Chicago will captivate you with its cutting-edge restaurants like Girl & The Goat and art galleries, maintaining that urban chic vibe. Those moving from the lush, green spaces of Sequoyah Hills will find solace in Lincoln Park's expansive parks and family-oriented environment, offering a seamless transition with attractions like the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Chicago History Museum that cater to all ages. This guide is designed to help bridge the familiarity gap, making your move as seamless as possible.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Knoxville to Chicago

Moving from one city to another can be a life-changing decision. This comparison seeks to provide an honest reflection of the journey from Knoxville, TN to Chicago, IL , underlining the pros and cons to help guide your decision-making process.

CONs
PROs
Knoxville, TN iconKnoxville, TN
  • Smaller job market
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Lower public transit options
  • Warmer climate
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Greater job opportunities
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Extensive public transportation
  • Distinct seasons
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher cost of living
  • Faster pace of life
  • Heavier traffic
  • Urban environment
Knoxville, TN iconKnoxville, TN
  • Lower cost of living
  • Quieter lifestyle
  • Easier traffic navigation
  • More natural scenery

Moving to Chicago opens up a plethora of cultural and employment opportunities not as readily available in Knoxville. For instance, Chicago's Magnificent Mile and The Loop are bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions such as the Art Institute of Chicago, providing rich experiences in comparison to Knoxville's more laid-back pace. The diversity in Chicago's neighborhoods, from the historic charm of Old Town to the trendy, bustling streets of Wicker Park, offers a wide variety of lifestyles and atmospheres. Though the cost of living may be higher, the trade-off comes with access to an expansive public transit system, including the 'L' train, making navigation without a car feasible. The city's distinct seasons bring beautiful transitions and various outdoor activities, from summer concerts in Millennium Park to winter skating at Maggie Daley Park. While moving here might adjust your budget and pace of life, the unique blend of urban exposure, cultural richness, and career opportunities presents an enticing proposition for those seeking a vibrant city life.

Knoxville vs. Chicago Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Knoxville & Chicago to help you better understand what food scene awaits you in your new city. After all, food is a vibrant part of local culture and can greatly enhance your living experience.

Knoxville
Chicago
Most iconic local food item
Biscuits and Gravy
Deep-Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dish
BBQ Ribs
Italian Beef
Most popular street food item
Tennessee Hot Chicken
Chicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan food
BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich
Vegan Deep-Dish Pizza
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Ye Olde Steakhouse
  • The Plaid Apron
  • Sweet P's BBQ and Soul House
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Au Cheval
  • Girl & The Goat
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Knoxville, you'll discover a robust appreciation for traditional Southern cuisine, epitomized by dishes like biscuits and gravy and Tennessee hot chicken, which can be found in spots such as Sweet P's BBQ and Soul House. As you transition to Chicago, the culinary landscape shifts significantly towards an urban, diverse palate. Known worldwide for its deep-dish pizza, a must-try is Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, renowned for its authentic take on this iconic dish. Chicago's food scene is highly vibrant, reflected in its high rating for foodie culture and an abundance of food trucks, especially around areas like The Loop and Logan Square, where you can indulge in everything from Chicago-style hot dogs to innovative vegan cuisine.

Knoxville vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city can often come down to the stomach, making your favorite foods an essential part of feeling at home. This restaurant comparison from Knoxville, TN to Chicago, IL will guide you in discovering your next go-to eateries, ensuring a smoother transition to your new surroundings. Whether you're longing for a luxurious night out or a casual meal, this list has got you covered.

KnoxvilleChicagoWhat You'll Love
EmiliaMonteverdeInventive Italian dishes with a contemporary flair
A Dopo Sourdough PizzaSpacca NapoliAuthentic Neapolitan pizzas with a cozy atmosphere
J.C. HoldwayGirl & The GoatEclectic Small Plates with focus on bold flavors
Knox MasonLongman & EagleFarm-to-table dining with a modern twist
Stock & BarrelAu ChevalGourmet burgers and a wide selection of craft beers
Yassin's Falafel HouseReza's RestaurantDelicious Mediterranean cuisine with a friendly vibe
The French Market CreperieLa CreperieCozy spot for sweet and savory crepes, French-style
Dead End BBQSmoque BBQMouth-watering smoked meats in a casual setting
Tomato HeadBeatrixHealthy, inventive dishes with eclectic, modern ambiance
Balter BeerworksRevolution BrewingBrewery with a vast beer selection and hearty pub fare

When the craving for a comforting slice of pizza sets in, Spacca Napoli in Chicago stands ready to offer an authentic taste reminiscent of A Dopo Sourdough Pizza's beloved pies, each crafted with passion and authenticity. And for those evenings when only the finest farm-to-table fare will do, transitioning from Knoxville's Knox Mason to Chicago's Longman & Eagle promises a culinary experience that marries innovation with tradition, featuring locally sourced ingredients prepared with modern flair. As you explore these new dining destinations, you'll find that the spirit of Knoxville's diverse food scene lives on in Chicago's dynamic culinary landscape, making it easier to feel right at home in your new city.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Knoxville vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, understanding the real estate landscape is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight key differences in housing between Knoxville, TN, and Chicago, IL, covering costs, architecture, and lifestyle. Find out which city matches your preferences and needs.

Knoxville
Chicago
Typical Architecture Style
Craftsman, Ranch
Gothic, Chicago School, Modern
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, mountain views
Lake views, proximity to public transport

While both Knoxville and Chicago offer unique living experiences, the choice between them hinges on your lifestyle preferences and budget. Knoxville's real estate market boasts more affordable homes and rents, often accompanied by spacious yards and scenic views of the Appalachian Mountains. In contrast, Chicago, known for its rich architectural heritage and urban lifestyle, offers a fast-paced environment with better walkability and access to public transportation. Here, properties commonly highlight lake views and the convenience of getting around without a car. Consider what matters most to you: the tranquility and space of Knoxville or the bustling, architectural beauty of 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.

Knoxville vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

If you're moving from one location to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares, especially when transitioning from Knoxville to Chicago. Knowing the differences will help you prepare for your new environment.

Knoxville
Chicago
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Thunderstorms, Tornadoes
Heavy Snows, Cold Waves
Air Quality
Good
Moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87°F / 67°F
82°F / 63°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

47°F / 28°F
32°F / 18°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

50"
36"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

6"
36"


Moving from Knoxville to Chicago, you'll notice significant weather changes, particularly in winter temperatures and snowfall. Chicago's winters are much colder, with average highs barely above freezing and significantly more snowfall, requiring more robust winter apparel and potentially affecting your commute. On the other hand, summers in Chicago are slightly cooler and less humid, which you may find more comfortable. The number of sunny days per year drops slightly, meaning Chicago experiences more overcast days. Considering these differences will ensure you're well-prepared for your new climate.

Ready to start your move?

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

When you're relocating, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial factors between Knoxville and Chicago will impact your budget. This comparison provides a snapshot of what to expect in each city, helping you prepare for the financial transition.

Knoxville
Chicago
Avg. Household Income
$45,700
$66,576
Cost of Living Index
89.4
116.9
State Income Tax
0%
4.95%
Avg. Property Tax
0.8%
2.1%
Avg. Sales Tax
9.25%
10.25%
Top 3 Industries
Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail
Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderate
High
Homelessness
Low
High

Moving from Knoxville to Chicago, you'll notice a significant shift in the cost of living and taxation. Chicago's higher average household income might seem appealing, but it's offset by a higher cost of living index, state income tax, and sales tax. Property taxes are particularly noteworthy, with Chicago's rate more than double that of Knoxville. Although both cities have robust economies, Chicago's focus on finance and technology presents different job opportunities compared to Knoxville's manufacturing and healthcare industries. Understanding these differences is essential for a smooth financial transition.

Knoxville vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Knoxville, TN, to Chicago, IL, it's useful to have an understanding of how the local communities align politically and religiously. This comparison of the politics between Knoxville & Chicago along with religious affiliations provides a quick snapshot to help you gauge the landscape of your potential new home.

Knoxville
Chicago
Political Make-up
Leans Conservative
Leans Liberal
Local Politics
Moderately engaged
Highly engaged
Religion
Primarily Christian, with many churches
Diverse, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and more

Transitioning from Knoxville to Chicago, you'll encounter a more liberal political atmosphere, reflective not only in presidential elections but also in local policies and social attitudes. Chicagoans are generally very engaged in local politics, with a vibrant civic life that encourages active participation. Regarding religion, while both cities have active Christian communities, Chicago's religious landscape is broader, reflecting its diverse population. This includes well-established Jewish, Muslim, and Hindu communities, among others. Understanding these differences will help you adjust more smoothly to your new environment.

Knoxville vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving to a new city comes with its challenges, especially when adapting to new traffic patterns and public transportation systems. This guide offers an insightful comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Knoxville & Chicago, aiming to ease your transition and better understand what your daily commute might look like.

Knoxville
Chicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
22
34
Traffic Congestion
3 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
4 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Yes

When comparing Knoxville and Chicago, it's essential to note the significant differences in average commute times, traffic congestion, and public transit options. In Knoxville, most residents find a car necessary due to the limited public transport options and relatively low traffic congestion. Meanwhile, Chicago offers a more robust public transit system rated highly for its efficiency, making it possible and, in many cases, preferable, to navigate the city without a personal vehicle. This difference is stark and reflects the urban planning and infrastructure investments of each city, highlighting the adaptability required when moving from the relaxed Knoxville to the bustling streets of Chicago.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Knoxville to Chicago Movers Featured Image