Factors influencing moving costs from Chicago to New York

The cost of Chicago movers will depend on:

  • Move size: The amount of items you have โ€” as well as your home size and layout โ€” will impact the total cost of your relocation.
  • Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Chicago, so moving companies will likely charge more.
  • DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.

What to know before moving from Chicago, IL, to New York

If youโ€™re moving to New York from Chicago, IL, youโ€™ll want to compare what life will be like.

Compare cost of living: Chicago vs. New York

Chicago, IL New York
Average rent cost $2,045 $1,507
Average home cost $295,743 $482,742
Average income (per capita) $71,566 $81,386
Unemployment rate 9.0% 4.4%
State income tax 4.95% 10.9%
  • Rent is about 46% less expensive in New York than in Chicago.
  • Home prices are about 75.0% higher in New York than in Chicago.
  • The average income is about 12.5% higher in New York than in Chicago.
  • New York has a lower unemployment rate than Chicago by about 86.8%.
  • Income taxes are 120.20% higher in New York than in Chicago.

How life is different in Chicago, IL, from New York

Chicago, IL New York
Population 2,746,388 19,571,216
Political leaning Democrat 74-24 Democratic 60-40
Summer high 84ยบF 81ยบF
Winter low 19ยบF 16ยบF
Annual rain 38" 44"
Annual snow 35" 62"
Crime index 35.19 21.51
  • The population of New York is approximately 613% greater than the population of Chicago.
  • In the last presidential election, New York voted Democratic and Chicago voted Democrat.
  • The average high in the summertime in New York is 81ยบ F and in Chicago, itโ€™s 84ยบ F.
  • During the coldest part of the year, New York reaches the temperature of 16ยบ F and Chicago gets down to 19ยบ F.
  • You can expect about 44 inches of annual rainfall in New York vs. 38 inches of rainfall in Chicago.
  • In New York, it snows about 62 inches annually vs. 35 inches of snow in Chicago.

Comparing the pros of Chicago, IL, vs. New York:

There are always a lot of reasons to get excited about living somewhere new. These are the best parts of living in Chicago vs New York side-by-side.

Pros of living in Chicago, IL Pros of living in New York
Bountiful arts and recreational activities Natural beauty
Delicious food Arts
Abundant entertainment Ample economic opportunity
Intense sports culture Abundant outdoor recreational opportunities
Ample economic opportunity Distinct seasons

Comparing the cons of living in Chicago, IL, vs. New York:

Not everything is sunshine and rainbows, these are the things to be aware of when leaving Chicago for New York.

Cons of living in Chicago, IL Cons of living in New York
High crime rate High tax burden
Temperamental weather Rough winter weather
Terrible traffic High cost of living
High taxes Poor quality healthcare
Pollution Populous

Other considerations when moving to New York from Chicago

  • Weather: The climate of New York state is generally has warm to hot summers and cold winters. In the farther southeastern portion of the state (New York City and Long Island area) hot and humid summers and cool to mild winters. Winter temperatures average below freezing during January and February in much of New York state, but several degrees above freezing along the Atlantic coastline, including New York City..
  • HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, youโ€™ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
  • Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
  • State licensing: New York requires moving companies to have a license and obtain a New York Department of Transportation (NYDOT) number. A NYDOT license ensures your mover is in compliance with the state's safety, insurance, and operational regulations. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
  • State regulator: You can verify a New York moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
  • Moving permits: New York does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
  • Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to New York. Get started here.
  • Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Choose Released Value Protection for no-cost, minimal coverage from movers. They're responsible for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, discuss alternatives with your moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
  • Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know youโ€™ve got everything covered.

Things to do in New York

Whether youโ€™re looking for parks, museums, sports, or even universities, youโ€™ll be happy to find a plethora of these in New York.

Museums in New Yorktoggle

  • The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
  • The Strong National Museum of Play
  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • New York State Museum
  • Erie Canal Museum
  • Brooklyn Museum
  • Buffalo & Erie County Naval and Military Park
  • Snug Harbor Cultural Center
  • Boldt Castle and Yacht House
  • USS Slater DE-766
  • National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum
  • New York State Capitol
  • Lyndhurst
  • New York Transit Museum
  • Phelps Mansion Museum
  • Corning Museum of Glass
  • Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum
  • Hudson River Maritime Museum
  • Dia Beacon

Parks in New Yorktoggle

  • Brooklyn Bridge Park
  • Central Park
  • Flushing Meadows Corona Park
  • Gantry Plaza State Park
  • Robert Moses State Park
  • Prospect Park
  • Mohonk Preserve
  • Caumsett State Park
  • Cunningham Park
  • Seneca Lake State Park
  • Congress Park
  • Otsiningo Park
  • Pierson Park
  • The High Line
  • Opus 40
  • Women's Rights National Historical Park

Sports Teams in New Yorktoggle

  • Brooklyn Nets Basketball (NBA)
  • Buffalo Bills (NFL)
  • Buffalo Sabres (NHL)
  • New York City FC (MLS)
  • New York Islanders (NHL)
  • New York Knicks (NBA)
  • New York Liberty (WNBA)
  • New York Mets (MLB)
  • New York Rangers (NHL)
  • New York Yankees (MLB)
  • Westchester Knicks (NBA G League)
  • Long Island Nets (NBA G League)

Universities in New Yorktoggle

  • Cornell University
  • Columbia University in the City of New York
  • New York University
  • University of Rochester
  • University at Buffalo, State University of New York
  • Syracuse University
  • Rochester Institute of Technology
  • Fordham University
  • Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
  • Stony Brook University
  • The New School
  • University at Albany, State University of New York
  • Binghamton University, State University of New York
  • Bard College
  • Pace University

FAQs

How long does a move from Chicago to New York take?

The time it takes to move from Chicago, IL, to New York depends on the moving method you choose. A DIY move with a rental truck can take a day or two, depending on your exact destination and how much you stop along the way. If youโ€™re using professional movers or a moving container company, delivery times can range from a few days to two weeks, depending on demand. Deliveries will likely take longer during the busy summer months.

For the fastest turnaround, ask your moving company for an estimated delivery window before booking.

What is the best way to get a car from Chicago to New York?

Need to get your car from Chicago to New York? Use a company that prioritizes professionalism, cares for your vehicle, and is experienced. Here is our list of the best Chicago to New York car shippers.

Why are people moving from Chicago to New York?

Many people are moving to New York because of its natural beauty and arts. On the other hand, people are moving away from Chicago because of the high crime rate and temperamental weather.

Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Chicago?

Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Chicago.

Helpful moving resources