Chicago, IL, and Nashville, TN, are about 500 miles apart. Even though it’s not a huge distance, moving to Nashville means stepping into a whole new lifestyle. Nashville has a population of about 700,000 people—quite a bit smaller compared to Chicago’s 2.9 million. But the differences don’t stop there. Nashville, the capital of Tennessee, continues to grow fast, welcoming nearly 100 new people every day. In this guide, we’ll break down what it costs to move, how to manage the move and why making the switch to Nashville could be a great choice.
Benefits of Moving from Chicago to Nashville
Relocating from Chicago to Nashville isn’t just about living in a city with fewer people and less crowding (Nashville has around 460 people per square kilometer, compared to nearly 4,500 in Chicago). Once you settle into your new life in Tennessee, you’ll notice several other key differences. Some of the most noticeable ones are listed below:
Affordability
While salaries in Nashville are a bit lower compared to Chicago, renting a one-bedroom place costs over $150 less each month. On top of that, the city offers free public healthcare and lower prices on things like beer, gas and other everyday expenses. Public transportation is also much more affordable.
Along with being more affordable, Nashville also has a lower unemployment rate—6.5% compared to 10% in Chicago—which means better job security for working adults. The lower cost of living also makes it a great place to retire, while still enjoying everything a city has to offer.
Climate
Even though both cities are nearly on the same latitude, going 500 miles south makes a noticeable difference in weather. When you move from Chicago to Nashville, you’ll enjoy warmer temperatures—averaging around 60°F compared to Chicago’s 51°F.
Nashville also gets less snow, so daily life isn’t as affected during winter. Winters in Tennessee are chilly but not harsh, which most people find enjoyable. Overall, the weather in Nashville stays comfortable year-round, making it a great place to enjoy a good quality of life.
Natural Beauty
Chicago has its own charm but Nashville’s scenery brings something special. The Cumberland River runs through the city and the rolling hills add to the stunning views. There are also plenty of walking trails and a total of 99 parks which together cover about 3% of the city.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park—the most visited national park in the U.S.—isn’t far from Nashville. Another popular nearby spot is the Warner Parks. Even though you still get all the perks of city living, the lower population density makes it easier to enjoy and connect with nature.
Education
Nashville is known for having a strong education system. From elementary and high schools to well-known colleges like Vanderbilt University and Tennessee State University, the city offers good support for students at all levels. That’s one reason why many families with kids choose to move to Music City.
Along with the advantages of the Metro Nashville Public Schools, the city also has plenty of job opportunities for both high school and college graduates. This makes Nashville a great place for individuals or families looking to build a long-term future.
Things To Do
Nashville may be smaller than Chicago but it’s packed with entertainment and arts. Because the city isn’t too big, it’s easy to get around and enjoy all it has to offer—including its sports teams like the Titans (NFL) and Predators (NHL).
Some of Nashville’s top spots include the Ole Smoky Distillery, the Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry. But there’s always something going on around the city every day. Whether you’re a family, a retiree or a young professional, you’ll quickly find there’s never a dull moment.
How to Move from Chicago to Nashville
Moving long-distance can be tricky and stressful. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you’re already thinking about settling into a new city. You’ll need to handle things like updating your address, helping your kids adjust and applying for TennCare health coverage. With so much going on, the last thing you want is the added stress of packing and moving everything 500 miles away.
Hiring a professional moving company that knows how to handle city-to-city moves is one of the best choices you can make. It takes away the stress of planning, organizing and doing the heavy lifting yourself—not to mention figuring out how to get everything there. At STI, we’ve been doing this for over 21+ years and our team is here to manage the whole move for you. We make sure your things get to your new home safely and on time, so you don’t have to worry.
Cost of Moving from Chicago to Nashville
On average, moving from Chicago to Nashville with STI costs around $3,300. But that’s just an estimate—the actual cost depends on several things. For example, the size of your home matters, moving from a four-bedroom house will cost more than moving from a studio apartment. Other details, like if you have special items (like a pool table) or need help with packing and unpacking, will also affect the final price.
It’s a smart idea to choose a trusted moving company that offers customized services instead of one flat rate. To get a clearer picture of what your move from Chicago to Nashville might cost, just fill out the InstaQuote form above.
Most Popular Areas in Nashville
Nashville may be smaller than Chicago but it’s made up of many different neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe. Whether you’re a young family, a business-minded professional or a retiree, there’s something here for everyone. If you’re planning a move to Music City, here are some of the top areas to consider:
Antioch
Antioch is one of the more budget-friendly neighborhoods in Nashville which makes it a great option for families and first-time homebuyers. Along with affordable housing, the area has seen a rise in job opportunities. It’s known as one of Nashville’s growing neighborhoods, making it a smart choice both for living and investing.
Downtown
Downtown Nashville can be a bit pricier than other areas but it’s easy to see why people love it. Living in the center of the city gives you quick access to job opportunities, exciting nightlife and fun spots for families during the day. It’s also home to Hume-Fogg Academic Magnet School—Tennessee’s top-ranked public school—which is a big plus for families.
East Nashville
East Nashville is a lively neighborhood that’s become especially popular with young professionals. It offers lots of apartments and smaller homes, along with plenty of restaurants and entertainment spots. The area also has lots of biking and hiking trails, plus beautiful views of the Cumberland River—perfect for balancing busy city life with some outdoor relaxation.
The Gulch
The Gulch used to be an industrial area just south of Downtown but it has turned into one of Nashville’s most high-end neighborhoods. Since the early 2000s, it’s become a trendy urban spot with quick access to both I-65 and I-40. Most homes here are upscale condos. Even though it’s more crowded than other parts of the city, it’s known for having low crime rates.
Nashville has many other well-known neighborhoods too, like Belle Meade, Germantown, Music Valley and Wedgewood-Houston. Once you’re clear on the kind of lifestyle you want after moving from Chicago, picking the right neighborhood should be pretty straightforward.
Why STI Moving & Storage?
Moving from Chicago to Nashville is a big step and can be challenging but it also marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. That’s why you shouldn’t have to worry about your belongings. You deserve a moving service that’s quick, affordable, dependable and keeps you informed every step of the way—and that’s exactly what STI Moving & Storage offers.
Our team is made up of trained, licensed, bonded and insured professionals who have the right tools and trucks to handle your move smoothly—no matter the season. As one of the top-rated moving companies in the country, we’ve helped thousands of people relocate across state lines and we’re ready to help you too. Reach out today and let’s start planning your move to Nashville.
