Introduction

So, you’re thinking about trading Chicago’s chilly winds for Miami’s warm ocean breezes. Moving from the Midwest to South Florida is a big change and it’s an adventure many others have undertaken in recent years. In fact, the migration from Illinois to Florida has been one of the busiest interstate moves – nearly 35,300 Illinois residents relocated to Florida between 2021 and 2022 alone.

It’s no surprise, after enduring Chicago’s frigid winters and hustle-bustle, the lure of year-round sunshine and sandy beaches can be hard to resist. But a long-distance move also raises plenty of questions. What will life in Miami actually be like? How much will it cost to move all your stuff? When is the best time to make the move? And how do you even choose a trustworthy moving company for such a journey? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about moving from Chicago to Miami.

We’ll discuss why so many people make this move, what to expect once you’re living in Miami (from the climate and lifestyle to the cost of living and job market) and go over the logistics like moving costs, timing or tips to make your relocation smooth and affordable. By the end, you should feel much more prepared and confident about saying “so long” to the Windy City and “hello” to the Magic City. Let’s dive in!

Why People Move from Chicago to Miami

Bye-Bye Winter, Hello Sunshine

One of the biggest reasons people swap Chicago for Miami is the weather. Chicagoans are no strangers to brutal winters – snowstorms, icy winds off Lake Michigan and months of gray skies are the norm. Chicago sees over 35 inches of snow per year and winter low temperatures can drop below 20°F. By contrast, Miami offers a tropical climate where average temperatures range from about 70°F to 90°F year-round.

No more shoveling out cars or trudging through slush in February – instead you can enjoy palm trees and beach weather even in January. Florida isn’t called “The Sunshine State” for nothing, it boasts 300+ days of sunshine each year. For those who are tired of scraping ice off their windshields and enduring long, dark winters, the promise of perpetual summer is a huge draw.

Outdoor Lifestyle & Beaches

With better weather comes a more outdoor-oriented lifestyle. In Miami, it’s easy to feel like you’re on vacation every day. You can swap weekend plans like huddling indoors at a Chicago pub for jogging along Miami’s waterfront or taking a dip in the ocean. South Florida is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay, giving residents miles of coastline to explore. Whether you’re into swimming, boating, paddleboarding or just sunbathing, there’s a beach for every mood – from the lively sands of South Beach to quieter family-friendly shores.

Living in Miami means being able to swim or golf in January, dine at outdoor cafés year-round and enjoy beautiful sunsets over the water on a regular basis. For many Chicagoans, the sheer abundance of outdoor activities – without needing to bundle up – is a refreshing change of pace.

Lower Taxes & Financial Perks

Another big factor in the Chicago-to-Miami migration is money – especially taxes. Illinois has relatively high taxes – for instance, Illinois homeowners pay around 2.1% of their home’s value in property taxes on average (one of the highest rates in the nation). Illinois also charges a state income tax (a flat 4.95% rate). Florida, on the other hand, has some financial perks that are hard to ignore.

Illinois takes a flat 4.95% of your income as state tax. But in Florida, that’s not the case — there’s no state income tax at all which means you get to keep more of your paycheck. On top of that, Florida’s property taxes are easier on your wallet too, averaging around 0.9% of your home’s value which is much lower than what most people pay in Illinois. This difference can save thousands of dollars per year.

Additionally, Florida’s sales tax and other taxes tend to be comparable or lower than Chicago’s (Chicago’s combined sales tax is over 10% in the city, while Florida’s base sales tax is 6% with some local additions). For professionals or retirees alike, moving to a state with no income tax and generally lower tax burdens is a compelling practical reason. As one report noted, Florida’s tax-friendly policies and lower cost of living are a major reason so many people are moving there.

Lifestyle & Culture

Beyond escaping weather and taxes, many people move for a change in lifestyle. Miami offers a vibrant, culturally diverse environment that’s quite different from Chicago. The city is often called a melting pot – it has a large Hispanic and Latin-American community, and Spanish is commonly spoken alongside English.

This influence is seen (and tasted!) in the local culture – in Miami you’ll find Cuban coffee counters on many corners, restaurants serving dishes like ropa vieja and ceviche, and Latin music enlivening the nightlife. By contrast, Chicago’s culture is a different blend – a mix of Midwestern and various immigrant influences (and of course, it’s famous for deep-dish pizza and hot dogs) but with less of the tropical Latin flavor Miami has.

Some Chicagoans are excited to experience Miami’s unique cultural scene, from colorful Art Deco architecture in South Beach to festivals celebrating Caribbean and Latin American heritage. Miami’s reputation for nightlife and entertainment is also a magnet – the city has been dubbed “The Magic City” for its ability to seemingly transform each night with glamorous clubs, live music and a general energy in the air.

If your idea of fun involves rooftop cocktails in January, dancing to salsa or electronic music until late, or attending international art events like Art Basel, Miami’s lifestyle will be a thrilling change.

Job Opportunities & Remote Work

In recent years, some people have moved from big cities like Chicago to Florida because work has become more flexible. The rise of remote work means you might not need to stay in Chicago for your job – you could do it from a condo in Miami with an ocean view.

Additionally, Florida (and Miami in particular) has been attracting businesses and talent in certain industries. Miami is known as a major international business hub, especially for companies doing business with Latin America and it draws professionals in banking, finance, trade, hospitality, and tourism.

The city’s tech and startup scene has also been growing, with several financial firms and tech companies relocating or opening offices in Miami in the last few years. While Chicago’s economy is larger and more diversified overall (Chicago remains a finance, manufacturing and transportation powerhouse in the Midwest), some folks find that Miami’s booming sectors like real estate, tourism and international trade present new opportunities. In fact, Miami-Dade County led the nation’s large counties in employment growth in late 2024. Whether it’s for a new job, starting a business or simply the freedom to work from anywhere, plenty of Chicagoans see Miami as a land of opportunity – with better weather to boot.

In short, people leave Chicago for Miami for lots of good reasons — they want warm weather instead of freezing winters, a more relaxed, outdoor lifestyle and the chance to save money with Florida’s tax perks and lower living costs. Miami also has a lively culture and a growing job market. It’s a long move (about 1,380 miles by road) but for many folks, the change is totally worth it.

What to Expect Living in Miami

Relocating to Miami from Chicago isn’t just a change of address – it’s a change of environment in almost every sense. Here’s what you can expect in key aspects of life in Miami and how those compare to what you’re used to in Chicago:

Climate in Miami

Get ready for year-round summer (with a twist). Miami’s climate is tropical, meaning it stays warm throughout the year. Winters are extremely mild – daytime highs in January average around 75°F (24°C) and nights maybe in the 60s°F, so you might swap your Chicago parka for a light jacket at most. Snow is something you’ll only see on TV Miami has never recorded snowfall in modern history.

In fact, many Miami residents crank their air conditioning at Christmas because it can be 80°F on a December afternoon! However, Miami’s summers are a different kind of beast than Chicago’s.

Both cities get hot and humid in the summer but Miami’s humidity is on another level. From about June through September, it’s common to have temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s °F (around 30-33°C) with very high humidity. This can make the heat index (how hot it feels) soar above 100°F on many days.

Chicago certainly has hot, humid spells in July but Miami’s tropical air can feel more intense – like a moist blanket. On the flip side, if you love warm nights, Miami delivers, summer evenings often stay in the high 70s or 80s°F, while Chicago’s nights tend to cool off a bit more.

Another major difference is precipitation. Chicago’s year is punctuated by snow, rain and the occasional thunderstorm. Miami, being tropical, has a rainy season roughly from May through October. During that period, you can expect short but intense rain showers almost daily (often in the afternoon). It’s wise to keep an umbrella handy at all times – a sunny morning can turn into a downpour by 3 PM.

These showers usually pass quickly and the sun comes out again but they can be drenching. Miami actually gets more total annual rainfall than Chicago, just concentrated in those summer months. The flip side is that winters in Miami are dry and sunny, while Chicago is getting snow or cold rain.

One thing to be aware of is hurricane season. From June through November, South Florida is on alert for tropical storms or hurricanes. While a major hurricane strike on Miami is relatively rare, it’s not unheard of – you’ll want to learn about hurricane preparedness (like having shutters or impact windows and knowing when to evacuate vs. shelter).

Many long-time Miami residents have stories of prepping for a storm or evacuating for a big hurricane. It’s a new kind of concern that Chicago doesn’t have. That said, with modern forecasting you usually have days of warning and many years go by with no serious hurricanes affecting Miami directly.

Overall, in Miami you can expect far more sunshine and warmth than in Chicago – which is a delight – but you’ll also have to adapt to the high humidity, heavy summer rains and the possibility of tropical storms. You might find yourself missing the fall leaves or a white Christmas but you certainly won’t miss scraping ice off your car or shivering at the bus stop in the wind. Your new “winter coat” will probably be a light rain jacket for those tropical downpours!

Lifestyle in Miami

Life in Miami moves to a different rhythm than Chicago. Chicago, as a major Midwestern metropolis, has a fast-paced urban feel but also that Midwest friendliness and a more formal vibe in the downtown business district. Miami, by contrast, often feels more like a colorful beachside resort city – even though it’s a large city in its own right, the atmosphere is usually more laid-back and vibrant.

  • Dress Code & Daily Vibe: In Chicago, especially in cooler months, people bundle up and might dress more formally for work (overcoats, suits, etc. in the Loop). In Miami, business casual often means a guayabera shirt or a sundress. The overall dress code is much more relaxed thanks to the heat – you’ll see people in shorts, t-shirts and flip-flops year-round. Even in professional settings, the culture can be a bit less formal (though downtown Miami does have its suited financiers, they might skip the tie). Don’t be surprised if you find yourself adopting a more casual wardrobe, after a while, anything below 65°F will feel “chilly” and warrant a light sweater!
  • Outdoor & Social Life: As mentioned, Miami’s weather encourages outdoor activities. You’ll quickly notice that many local routines revolve around being outside – from morning runs along the beach, to open-air restaurants and happy hours, to weekend events in parks. Water activities are huge here many Miami locals love boating, fishing, paddleboarding, jet-skiing or simply spending time by the pool. If you enjoy staying active, you’ll have year-round opportunities to bike, rollerblade or join outdoor yoga classes. And if you’re a beach lover, living in Miami means the beach isn’t just a vacation destination – it can be part of your regular week. (Imagine doing a quick ocean swim or beach picnic after work on a random Wednesday in February!)
  • Entertainment & Nightlife: Miami is well-known for its exciting nightlife and entertainment. There’s always something fun going on — from stylish clubs in South Beach (where DJs play all night and fancy cars line the street) to more relaxed spots with live music, art events and cultural festivals. People in Miami usually eat dinner later, around 8 or 9 PM and the party scene doesn’t really start until 11 PM or even midnight. That’s a bit different from Chicago, where bars usually close around 2 AM. In Miami, some clubs stay open until 3 or 4 AM, and a few in Miami Beach go nearly all night. But it’s not all about parties — there’s plenty for families and those who prefer quieter fun. You can visit places like the Miami Seaquarium or take an airboat ride through the Everglades. Miami also has a lot of culture to explore, like cool art galleries, the colorful Wynwood Walls, the Pérez Art Museum and big events like the Miami International Boat Show or Carnaval Miami.
  • Cultural Diversity: Miami is a true multicultural city. You will hear Spanish spoken frequently – in some neighborhoods, it’s actually the primary language. The influence of Cuban, Venezuelan, Colombian, Dominican, Haitian and other communities gives Miami a rich tapestry of cultures. This means amazing food (from Cuban bakeries to Argentine steakhouses to Haitian creole cuisine and more) and a variety of cultural festivals or parades throughout the year. Compared to Chicago (which certainly has diverse neighborhoods like Pilsen, Greektown, Chinatown, etc.), Miami’s diversity is more woven into the everyday fabric and has a strong Caribbean/Latin flavor. Embracing this diversity can be one of the most rewarding parts of moving to Miami – you get to experience a bit of the Caribbean and Latin America without leaving the U.S.
  • Pace of Life: While Miami is a big, bustling metro area, many newcomers notice the pace of life can feel more relaxed or spontaneous than Chicago. There’s a local saying “Miami time” which jokes that people are often 15-30 minutes late, punctuality isn’t as strict as in some northern cities. Some attribute it to the heat making folks move slower or the more laissez-faire tropical attitude. This isn’t to say people in Miami don’t work hard – they do – but the approach might be a tad more flexible. Instead of timetables and tight schedules, you might find yourself adopting a “no worries, we’ll get there when we get there” mindset, especially once you’re off the clock.

In short, life in Miami is more laid-back, diverse and focused on the outdoors compared to Chicago. Instead of spending weekends at museums or cozy bars, you’ll probably find yourself enjoying the beach or dancing to Latin music. Miami often feels like a vacation, even on weekdays and there’s always something new to experience. It’s a big change — but that’s part of the fun of starting fresh!

Cost of Living in Miami

One crucial thing anyone moving cities wants to know: how do everyday expenses compare? The cost of living in Miami vs. Chicago has some notable differences – some things might be cheaper, others more expensive.

  • Housing Costs: This is often the biggest factor. Chicago’s housing market, while not cheap, is generally more affordable than many coastal cities. Miami, on the other hand, has seen a surge in housing costs in recent years. Rent in Miami is notably higher on average than in Chicago. For example, as of 2025 the median rent for a typical apartment in the Miami area is around $3,200 per month, compared to about $2,025 per month in Chicago. That’s roughly a 60% increase which is substantial. Part of this is driven by Miami’s popularity and limited land (there’s only so much coastal real estate). Neighborhood matters a lot, if you choose a trendy area like Brickell, Downtown or Miami Beach, expect high rents or home prices comparable to big cities. If you’re open to suburbs or areas farther from the beach (Kendall, Westchester, parts of Broward County to the north), prices can be more moderate – perhaps closer to what you’d pay in Chicago’s suburbs. On the upside, Florida has the Homestead Exemption for homeowners (residents can get a property tax reduction on their primary home) which can save money if you buy a home and make it your primary residence.
  • Utilities & Groceries: Some costs will actually be lower or similar in Miami. Utilities in Chicago can be high in winter (heating bills during those sub-zero spells are no joke). In Miami, you won’t pay for heating but your electric bill for A/C will go up in summer. Overall, utility costs might even out some studies suggest energy costs in Florida are a bit below Illinois on average. Groceries and everyday goods in Miami are fairly comparable to Chicago. You might find certain things like fresh fruits are cheaper (thanks to closer local sources – Florida produce is abundant) while other items are a tad pricier due to being in a high-demand metro. According to cost-of-living indices, the overall cost of living in Miami is slightly higher than Chicago – about 5-10% higher by some estimates. This is a change from years past when Miami was considered more affordable, recent population growth and inflation have bumped it up. Nonetheless, day-to-day shopping won’t feel shockingly different in price for most items. A gallon of milk, a loaf of bread or a cup of coffee will be roughly in the same ballpark (maybe a bit more in Miami touristy areas).
  • Taxes & Insurance: As discussed earlier, taxes are a big win in Florida. You will not have state income tax taking a bite from each paycheck which can save you thousands per year compared to Illinois. Sales tax in Miami-Dade County is 7%, slightly lower than Chicago’s ~10.25%. Property taxes are lower in percentage though note that insurance costs in Florida can be higher. If you become a homeowner, homeowner’s insurance (especially windstorm coverage for hurricanes) is significantly more expensive than in Illinois – sometimes a few times higher – because of the weather risks. Car insurance is also generally higher in Florida than Illinois, factors like fraud and lots of drivers mean rates in Miami can sting. So, some of the tax savings might be offset by higher insurance costs. It’s good to budget for that if you’ll be driving or buying a home.
  • Transportation & Commuting: In Chicago, many people rely on public transit (CTA trains, buses) or simply walking within the city. In Miami, public transit exists (there’s Metrorail, MetroMover downtown and buses) but it’s not as comprehensive as Chicago’s. Many Miami residents find they need a car to get around efficiently, especially if you’re not living right in the downtown or South Beach area. So, if you didn’t own a car in Chicago, you might end up getting one in Miami – which adds costs like gas, insurance, parking, etc. Gasoline tends to be a bit cheaper in Florida than Illinois (Illinois has high gas taxes), so fueling up might hurt the wallet less. And say goodbye to hefty tollway fees like Illinois’ though Florida does have toll roads, you can often avoid them or they’re not too pricey (you’ll likely get a SunPass for convenience if you drive).
  • Income & Salaries: Some jobs in Miami may pay a bit less than in Chicago. Chicago is a major business center with generally higher average salaries especially in fields like finance and corporate roles. In Miami, many jobs are in tourism and services which often pay lower. However, new opportunities in tech and finance are growing. If you’re keeping your current job or working remotely, you may still earn your Chicago-level salary — and with no state income tax in Florida, that means more take-home pay. If you’re job hunting in Miami, it’s smart to check what your role typically pays there. Overall, average incomes in both places are pretty close but it depends on the kind of work you do.

In summary, expect housing to be the biggest cost adjustment in Miami, often higher than Chicago, especially for rentals in desirable areas. Day-to-day expenses will be similar, maybe a tad higher but balanced by no state income tax (more take-home pay) and potentially lower winter utility and gas costs. It’s wise to budget carefully and perhaps pad your savings for the move – and once you’re in Miami, take time to learn the local deals (like shopping at farmer’s markets, finding cheaper parking, etc.). Many people find that the lifestyle gains of Miami – the beach, the weather, the vibrant atmosphere – make any extra costs well worth it.

Job Market in Miami

If you’re moving to Miami, you may be curious about the job market and economy there, especially compared to Chicago’s robust job scene. While the two cities have different economic profiles, Miami’s economy is strong and growing in its own right, with some unique opportunities.

Miami’s Job Market & Major Industries

Miami has a strong and growing economy with several major industries. One of the biggest is tourism and hospitality. Since Miami is a top vacation and cruise destination, there are lots of jobs in hotels, restaurants, nightclubs and related services. If you work in entertainment or hospitality, Miami has plenty of opportunities.

Another major area is international trade and shipping. PortMiami is one of the busiest in the country, especially for trade with Latin America. This creates lots of jobs in logistics, freight and import/export. Finance and banking are also big in Miami, especially in the Brickell area, often called “Wall Street South.” Many banks, investment firms and even some major company headquarters are based there. The real estate and construction industries are booming too, with new condos and commercial buildings going up across the city.

In recent years, tech and startups have started to grow in Miami. The city is attracting new businesses, especially in fintech, crypto, healthcare tech and creative industries like fashion, media and art. Events like Art Basel and film/music festivals also support the creative economy.

Jobs are on the rise overall. In early 2024, Miami added over 66,000 new jobs and had a lower unemployment rate than the national average. Some industries (like hospitality) still pay lower wages, so it’s smart to secure a job or have a plan before moving. If you work remotely, you’re in luck — Miami has great Wi-Fi cafes, co-working spaces and a growing remote work community, especially in places like Wynwood and Brickell.

Compared to Chicago which has a very broad economy (finance, manufacturing, education, healthcare), Miami leans more toward services, trade, tourism and international business. If you’re in a field like manufacturing or heavy industry, there may be fewer options in Miami. But if you’re in finance, tech, media, healthcare or real estate, there are growing opportunities.

On top of that, no state income tax in Florida means your paycheck can go a bit further — a nice bonus if you’re keeping the same job or salary. And when it comes to building connections, Miami’s diverse culture puts a big focus on personal relationships. Speaking Spanish can help in some industries but it’s not required. There are plenty of business events, meetups and networking groups for professionals of all backgrounds.

Bottom line: Miami has a strong, fast-growing job market with lots of opportunities in key industries. Whether you’re transferring jobs, going remote or looking for new work, there’s a lot to explore — and it’s a city that welcomes fresh talent and new ideas.

Cost of Moving from Chicago to Miami

Moving from Chicago to Miami is a big job — it’s about 1,380 miles and definitely more expensive than moving across town. Knowing what affects the price can help you budget smart and maybe even save money.

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Average Cost

The average cost to move from Chicago to Miami is around $2,958.63 but prices can depending on how much you’re moving and the services you choose. A small move with a few boxes costs less, while moving a fully furnished home with packing help costs more.

To get a better idea of your own cost, it’s smart to use a moving cost calculator online — it helps estimate your price based on distance, home size and services.

What Affects the Price

Here are the biggest things that impact what you’ll pay:

  • How Much Stuff you Have: The more boxes and furniture, the more expensive the move.
  • Time of Year: The time of year and even day of the week you move can influence price. Summer is traditionally peak moving season (lots of people move when kids are out of school) and prices tend to be higher then. However, interestingly for moves to Florida, peak season can also be winter, because that’s when people from up north like to relocate for the nicer weather. If you can move in an “off-peak” time (for example, autumn or mid-month/mid-week), you might get a better rate
  • Extra Services: Things like packing, storage and moving big items (like pianos, couch or cars) all add extra fees.
  • Insurance: Basic coverage is free but it’s limited. Many people pay a bit more for better protection.
  • Delivery & Access: If the truck can’t park close, or if there are stairs and no elevator, expect extra charges.

Ballpark Pricing

Tips to Save

  • Get quotes from at least 2–3 movers — and ask for a virtual or in-home estimate to get the most accurate price.
  • Ask about hidden fees like long carries or stair charges.
  • Declutter before moving — less stuff means lower cost.
  • Move during off-peak times for better deals.

Most professional Chicago movers take about 3–5 days to deliver from Chicago to Miami, though it could take up to a week. If you need your stuff to arrive by a specific date, ask about guaranteed delivery options (just know they may cost more).

For a move this size, you’ll likely spend around $3,000, give or take. Using a moving cost calculator and comparing quotes can help you find the best deal — and knowing the cost factors upfront helps you stay in control of your budget.

How to Move from Chicago to Miami

Moving a long distance can feel overwhelming but it gets a whole lot easier when you have the right help. That’s where a reliable moving company like STI Moving & Storage Inc comes in. With more than 21 years of experience, STI movers know exactly how to make your move smooth and stress-free.

From packing up your things to loading, transporting and unloading them safely in Miami — STI handles it all with care. Our team is friendly, experienced and ready to walk you through each step of the move. They’ll even help you build a moving plan that fits your needs and budget.

Want help with your move from Chicago to Miami?

Give STI Moving & Storage a call today and make your relocation easier from start to finish.