Moving from New York City, NY, to Chicago, IL

Moving between two large diverse cities

Moving between New York and Chicago means making some adjustments. The most noticeable one is the population. Chicago is not considered a small town since it’s the third most populated in the U.S., but when you’re used to NYC, you might feel a bit more breathing room in the Windy City.  

Chicago has just under 2.8 million people in the city limits and nearly 10 million in the metro area, roughly half the size of NYC’s metro area. The population density in Chicago is much lower than in NYC, so the diverse residents will have more room to spread out. 

Don’t worry about missing the NYC skyscrapers while living in Chicago

New York City is famous for skyscrapers, but did you know Chicago was home to the first such building in the United States? It’s true! The Home Insurance Building was constructed in 1885 at 10 stories or 138 feet tall. The building was demolished in 1935, but you’ll find plenty of other skyscrapers in Chicago, including Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower), the Trump International Hotel & Tower, St Regis Chicago and the Aon Center. The Windy City has the second-tallest skyline in the U.S. after NYC.

Enjoy a lower cost of living in the Windy City

Chicago isn’t known for being a cheap place to live, but the cost of living is much lower there than in the Big Apple. In most neighborhoods, you’ll find lower prices for housing, groceries and other daily expenses when compared to your former home in NYC.  

Top industries in Chicago include business, engineering, finance, government, health care, pharmaceuticals and transportation. 

Getting around Chicago for work and play

Though not as robust as NYC’s network, Chicago’s public transit system is nothing to write off. The city buses and the “L” elevated train can get you almost anywhere you want to go for work or entertainment. Chicago has world-class museums and a renowned theatre district to enhance your cultural experiences in the city, and you can find any type of national or international cuisine you’re craving there as well. 

U-Pack can move you to Chicago

U-Pack® has nationwide service centers and more than 25 years of experience. With locations near NYC and Chicago, we’re ready to help with your long-distance move. We’re a DIY-moving service where you handle packing, loading and unloading, and then we move your belongings. Get a free online quote today, or give us a call at 844-362-5303844-594-3077 to speak to a moving consultant.