Best Norfolk to Chicago Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Norfolk to Chicago and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 886 mile move from Virginia to Illinois go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 46 Norfolk 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 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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
3Marathon Moving Services9.299.25Authorized For HHG
4Prime Movers USA9.099.39Authorized For Property, HHG
5A Friendly & Affordable Mover8.238.74Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 886 miles from Norfolk, VA to Chicago, IL will cost on average $2,535 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Norfolk to Chicago move is roughly $6,086. 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$1,705300 ft³$5.68
1 Bedroom$2,535450 ft³$5.63
2 Bedrooms$4,187750 ft³$5.58
3 Bedrooms$6,0861100 ft³$5.53
4 Bedrooms$8,7721600 ft³$5.48
5+ Bedrooms$9,7791800 ft³$5.43
*Please note: These Virginia to Illinois moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Virginia & 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 VA to IL mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Norfolk guide.

Compare the 5 Best Norfolk 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
Marathon Moving Services Logo

Marathon Moving Services

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.29/10
based on 970+ data points

MMS

Virginia Beach, VA, 23464

About Marathon Moving Services

Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon Moving Services...

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing & Delivery

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3572153 / 1552140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Prime Movers USA Logo

Prime Movers USA

Exceptional9.09/10
based on 576+ data points

531 Fountain Lake Dr

Virginia Beach, VA, 23451

About Prime Movers USA

Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in...

Services

  • Local moves (within 50 miles)
  • Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
  • Packing/unpacking services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2995403 / 21183

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved9,060 (2023)
View Full Review
4
A Friendly & Affordable Mover Logo

A Friendly & Affordable Mover

Very Good
claimed company icon
8.23/10
based on 1,134+ data points

516 Central Dr Suite 104

Virginia Beach, VA, 23454

About A Friendly & Affordable Mover

A Friendly and Affordable Mover is a locally-owned moving company in Virginia Beach, VA. Founded in 1989, this company is one...

Services

  • Local and long-distance professional moving services
  • Free in-home estimates
  • Loading and unloading services for rental trucks, storage areas, and PODS

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3239170 / 1036449

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved60,000 (2022)
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.

Norfolk vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To help you find your bearings, we've curated a comparison to bridge the gap between what you know and what you're about to discover. Specifically, this guide will spotlight the comparison of the local neighborhoods between Norfolk, VA & Chicago, IL , pinning down the most similar areas in each city to ease your transition.

NorfolkChicagoHow They're Similar
GhentAndersonvilleLiberal, artsy vibe with eclectic shopping
LarchmontRoscoe VillageFamily-friendly, quiet residential life
Freemason DistrictOld TownRich history, charming architecture
Granby StreetWicker ParkLively nightlife, trendy dining options
Ocean ViewEdgewaterRelaxing beach vibe, community oriented
Lamberts PointPilsenVibrant murals, strong cultural presence
Elizabeth ParkLincoln ParkAbundant green space, upscale retail
West GhentLogan SquareBohemian atmosphere, burgeoning food scene
East BeachNorth Avenue BeachActive beach scene, scenic views
RiverviewBucktownArtistic community, close-knit feel

Exploring neighborhoods like Ghent in Norfolk, with its unique shops and vibrant cultural scene, finds a kindred spirit in Chicago's Andersonville, both appealing to those who appreciate an artsy and inclusive environment. On the other hand, if you love the ocean's proximity and the laid-back atmosphere of Ocean View, you'll find similar solace in Edgewater's beachfront charm coupled with community-focused living. Family-oriented Norfolk residents migrating from Larchmont will see Roscoe Village as a seamless transition, offering a peaceful residential atmosphere perfect for raising a family, with access to excellent schools and quaint parks. Meanwhile, for the history buffs enamored by Freemason District's aged elegance, Old Town in Chicago provides an equally rich tapestry of historical landmarks and cobblestone streets, complemented by a diverse architectural portfolio.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Norfolk to Chicago

Moving from one city to another can be a pivotal moment in your life, and it's essential to consider both the positives and negatives of such a decision. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Norfolk, VA to Chicago, IL . By examining the cons and pros through these charts, you'll be better equipped to weigh your options.

CONs
PROs
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less diverse cuisines
  • Fewer cultural venues
  • Less public transportation
  • Warmer winters
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Larger, vibrant city
  • World-class dining
  • Richer cultural scene
  • Extensive public transit
  • Colder, snowy winters
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • No nearby beach
  • Higher cost of living
  • More impersonal
  • Heavier traffic
  • Harsh winters
Norfolk, VA iconNorfolk, VA
  • Proximity to the beach
  • Lower cost of living
  • Smaller community feel
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Milder winters

Relocating from Norfolk to Chicago introduces you to a city buzzing with energy and a plethora of opportunities. Chicago's rich cultural scene is evident through establishments like the Art Institute of Chicago and the vibrant nightlife in neighborhoods like Wicker Park. Despite the higher cost of living, the windy city compensates with its world-class dining experiences, such as those offered at Alinea. However, one might miss Norfolk's milder winters and the close-knit community vibe. Yet, embracing Chicago means access to extensive public transport options like the 'L' train, connecting you efficiently across the city and opening up a diverse array of neighborhoods to explore, each with its unique charm and character.

Norfolk vs. Chicago Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Norfolk, VA & Chicago, IL, highlighting the significant role food plays in the cultural fabric and lifestyle of a region. As you plan your move, understanding the food scene of your new city can enrich your relocation experience.

Norfolk
Chicago
Most iconic local food item
Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabs
Deep-Dish Pizza
Most popular meat dish
Virginia Ham
Italian Beef Sandwich
Most popular street food item
Oyster Po'boy
Chicago-style Hot Dog
Most popular vegan food
Tempeh Reuben
Seitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Todd Jurman's Seafood
  • The Flavors of India
  • Norfolk Seafood Co
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)
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Foodie Scene (out of 10)
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Norfolk to Chicago, you'll transition from a coastal cuisine rich in seafood to an urban gastronomy known for its hearty, iconic dishes. Chicago's neighborhoods, such as the Loop or River North, are culinary havens where the famous deep-dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches reign supreme. Venues like Lou Malnati's Pizzeria are must-visits for pizza aficionados, while the Chicago-style hot dog, free of ketchup yet bursting with toppings, is a staple street food found throughout the city. The vegan scene in Chicago is also vibrant, with numerous establishments offering inventive plant-based options, reflecting the city's high vegan-friendly rating.

Norfolk vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Norfolk and Chicago will aid in the quest to discover new favorite eateries, making the transition to your new city smoother and tastier.

NorfolkChicagoWhat You'll Love
The CodexAlineaExperimental tasting menus that challenge the senses.
Omar's Carriage HouseGilt BarIntimate ambiance with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
GrainThe J. ParkerRooftop dining with sweeping cityscape views.
Chartreuse BistroGirl & The GoatInventive small plates in a vibrant setting.
Handsome BiscuitHoney Butter Fried ChickenComfort food served with a twist.
LuceSapori TrattoriaCozy Italian dining with homemade pastas.
ToastLittle Goat DinerA modern take on classic diner favorites.
Doumar's Cones and BarbecuePortillo'sIconic spot for Chicago-style hot dogs and more.
No Frill Bar and GrillAu ChevalElevated diner fare in an upscale-casual atmosphere.
A.W. Shucks Raw Bar and GrillShaw’s Crab HousePremier seafood dining with a historic vibe.

Finding a new dining spot that reminds you of home is always a thrilling discovery. For instance, moving from the cozy, Italian warmth of Luce in Norfolk, you'll find a similar embrace at Sapori Trattoria in Chicago, where the handmade pastas and ambient lighting recreate a slice of Italy in the Windy City. On the lighter, casual side, Grain's rooftop vibes find a counterpart in The J. Parker, where Chicago's skyline serves as the perfect backdrop to an evening out. And for those craving unique flavors wrapped in a biscuit, Handsome Biscuit’s soulful creations have a match in Honey Butter Fried Chicken in Chicago, where comfort food is elevated to new heights with creative recipes and a cozy atmosphere. Embrace these culinary journeys as you explore the rich food tapestry of Chicago, finding pieces of Norfolk along the way.

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Ready to start your move?

Norfolk vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, diving into the real estate differences between Norfolk, VA, and Chicago, IL is crucial. Understanding housing costs, architectural styles, and the urban lifestyle can significantly impact your decision-making process. Let's explore how these two cities compare in the world of real estate.

Norfolk
Chicago
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Cape Cod
Modern, Chicago School
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Waterfront views, Proximity to Naval Base
Access to public transportation, Lake views

In comparing Norfolk and Chicago, one immediate difference is the cost of living, especially in terms of real estate. Chicago's median home price and rent are notably higher, reflecting its more urban setting and abundant amenities. Chicago's architecture is characterized by a rich mix of modern skyscrapers and historical buildings from the Chicago School of architecture, offering a stark contrast to Norfolk's predominant Colonial and Cape Cod-style homes that reflect its historical roots. Chicago's higher walkability and bikeability scores indicate a city designed for movement without a car, supported by extensive public transportation options. Urban lifestyle in Chicago is rated highly due to its dynamic culture, food, and arts scene, starkly contrasting with Norfolk's more laid-back, coastal living environment that emphasizes waterfront views and proximity to the Naval Base. Despite these differences, both cities offer unique living experiences tailored to various preferences and lifestyles.

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.

Norfolk vs. Chicago Weather Considerations

When relocating from Norfolk, VA to Chicago, IL, it's crucial to grasp how the climate shift will impact your daily life. This comparison will outline essential weather differences to help you prepare for your move.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87°F / 70°F
83°F / 63°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

48°F / 32°F
35°F / 22°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

47
36
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

7
36


Chicago experiences a broader temperature range than Norfolk, with warmer summers and significantly colder winters. This includes a substantial increase in annual snowfall, which can affect daily life during winter months. While both cities enjoy plenty of sunshine, Chicago’s slightly fewer sunny days, coupled with its higher likelihood of blizzards and tornadoes, demands readiness for more diverse weather conditions. Furthermore, the top seasonal allergies in both cities are similar, though Chicago adds mold to the list, potentially affecting sensitive individuals more during certain seasons.

Ready to start your move?

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


If you're moving from one location to another, it's important to understand how the cost
of living and financial aspects will compare between Norfolk, VA and Chicago, IL
. This comparison
will give you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of finances, helping to smooth your transition.

Norfolk
Chicago
Avg. Household Income
$58,591
$66,576
Cost of Living Index
96.6
116.9
State Income Tax
5.75
4.95
Avg. Property Tax
0.80
2.12
Avg. Sales Tax
6
10.25
Top 3 Industries
Defense, Shipbuilding, Transportation
Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology
Affluence
Modest
Varied
Poverty
Notable
Significant
Homelessness
Concern
Major Issue


Moving from Norfolk to Chicago, you'll find that the average household income is higher in Chicago, potentially
counterbalancing the higher cost of living index. However, the considerable difference in sales tax and property
tax rates between the two cities can significantly affect your monthly expenses, particularly if you plan to
purchase a home. Industry-wise, Chicago's predominance in finance, manufacturing, and IT offers diverse employment
opportunities compared to Norfolk's focus on defense and shipbuilding. Understanding these financial and economic
contrasts is crucial in preparing for your relocation.

Norfolk vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Norfolk, VA, to Chicago, IL, brings significant changes, especially when examining the comparison of the politics between Norfolk & Chicago and their religious landscapes. This quick snapshot aims to give you an understanding of what to expect from the communities in both cities.

Norfolk
Chicago
Political Make-up
Leans Democratic
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
City Council, Mayor-council system
City Council, Mayor-council system
Religion
Christianity predominant, diverse religious communities
Christianity predominant, very diverse religious communities

When moving from Norfolk to Chicago, you'll find both cities share a Democratic political inclination, though Chicago's political scene is notably more robust in its Democratic leanings. Local governance in both places operates under a mayor-council system, facilitating active community engagement and local decision-making. Religiously, while both cities are predominantly Christian, Chicago's larger size and greater diversity offer a wider array of religious communities and establishments, from historic churches to interfaith organizations. This diversity in belief systems can enrich your social and community interactions, offering you a broader spectrum of cultural experiences.

Norfolk vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Norfolk, VA to Chicago, IL means adapting to new daily commutes and understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options. This comparison aims to offer insight into what you can expect in both cities, helping you better prepare for your move.

Norfolk
Chicago
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
24
35
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
7 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Easier

In Norfolk, the average commute time is significantly less than in Chicago, which may reflect the lesser traffic congestion experienced by Norfolk residents. Despite this, Chicago offers a more extensive public transit system, making it easier to get around the city without a car. This superior public transportation availability in Chicago is crucial for those planning to commute to work or explore the city without relying on personal vehicles. It's important to note that living in Norfolk might require more dependence on a car, though it's manageable with some planning and adjustment.

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