Some of the best cities in the U.S. share a few key things — fun nightlife, amazing food, plenty of outdoor fun and solid job options. Chicago checks all those boxes! With its tall buildings and beautiful views of Lake Michigan, it gives you both the energy of a big city and the charm of a more relaxed place.
Whether you’re moving with your family or starting fresh because of a new job, Chicago has a lot to offer. As you get ready to leave Seattle and head to this big Midwest city, here’s a quick look at what you can expect when you settle into life in Chi-Town.
Benefits of Moving from Seattle to Chicago
Lower Cost of Living
Whether you’re planning to rent for a while or buy a home for your family, Chicago is a solid place to settle down. Compared to other big cities, it’s pretty budget-friendly. In fact, living in Chicago costs nearly 60% less than living in Seattle. The average home price in Seattle is around $715,000, while in Chicago it’s only about $229,000. So, if owning a home felt out of reach in Seattle, you might be able to make it happen in Chicago.
Job Opportunities
Chicago is a great city to grow your career, with strong job markets in many industries. Big names like JPMorgan, Chase and Deloitte are here, making it ideal for finance professionals. It’s also home to major airline companies like Boeing and United. Other strong career fields include engineering, healthcare, government, pharmaceuticals and transportation—so there are lots of paths you can take.
Enjoy All Four Seasons
Sure, Chicago winters can be rough but there’s so much to enjoy during the other seasons. Spring and summer bring out blooming flowers, green trees and tons of fun festivals. From May to October, the city stays busy with events. There are over 150 festivals every year, including ones focused on music, culture, food and neighborhood celebrations. And since Chicago doesn’t get nearly as much rain as Seattle, there’s a better chance your plans won’t get rained out.
Beautiful Beaches
They might not be oceanfront but Chicago’s beaches are still pretty amazing. The city has 26 miles of sandy shoreline along Lake Michigan. Not only does the lake add to the city’s beauty but it also gives people plenty of ways to enjoy the water in the summer. You can go for a walk by the lake, relax on the beach or jump into activities like boating, swimming, or jet skiing.
Big Sports Scene
If you’re into sports, you’ll love living in Chicago. There’s always a team to root for, no matter the time of year. The city is home to two Major League Baseball teams, plus pro teams in basketball (NBA), football (NFL) and hockey (NHL). That’s why it’s known as one of the best sports cities in the country. And with tons of bars, pubs and restaurants around town, it’s easy to find a fun spot to watch the game with other fans.
Amazing Food & Shopping
Living in Chicago means you’ll quickly fall in love with some local favorites—like Italian beef sandwiches, deep dish pizza and the classic Chicago-style hot dog. But the food scene doesn’t stop there. The city is packed with incredible places to eat, from Michelin-starred spots to restaurants run by well-known chefs. You’ll also find all kinds of cool bars—whether you’re into trendy lounges or laid-back hipster hangouts.
When it comes to shopping, Chicago has a lot to offer. Michigan Avenue, also known as the Magnificent Mile, is lined with shops, restaurants and big malls all in one stretch. You can also check out great shopping areas like Wicker Park, Oak Street and State Street for more unique finds and local stores.
Cost of Moving from Seattle to Chicago
Moving isn’t cheap, so having a clear budget can really help keep things under control. That’s why STI offers upfront pricing and flexible moving plans—so you can choose something that fits your needs and wallet. On average, moving from Seattle to Chicago costs $2,640.18.
Keep in mind, though, that the final price can vary. Things like the exact distance, how much stuff you’re moving, whether you need special handling and if you want help with packing or unpacking all play a role in the cost.
STI makes it easy to plan ahead by giving you a quick and accurate estimate through their Instaquote tool.
How to Move from Seattle to Chicago
Moving long distance takes careful planning and good organization. Since you can’t just go back and forth easily, it’s important to get everything right from the beginning. That’s why hiring a professional moving company is a smart move for cross-country relocations. STI has been in the moving business for over 20+ years and their experienced team can handle it all—from packing and loading & unloading to transporting and unpacking your stuff. Moving can feel overwhelming but with the right help, it doesn’t have to be. STI is here to make your move less stressful so you can focus on settling into your new home in Chicago.
Give us a call today to see how STI can create a moving plan that fits your needs!
