Best Chicago to Lexington Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Chicago to Lexington and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 376 mile move from Illinois to Kentucky go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 40 Chicago to Lexington moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is 606 Movers, Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago compared to Lexington. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

Best Chicago to Lexington Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Chicago to Lexington Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1606 Movers, Inc.9.379.27Authorized For Property, HHG
2Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHG
3A1 Movers, Inc9.349.57Authorized For HHG
4From Here to There9.168.82Authorized For Property, HHG
5Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving8.779.14Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Chicago to Lexington?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 376 miles from Chicago, IL to Lexington, KY will cost on average $2,101 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Lexington move is roughly $5,026. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,416300 ft³$4.72
1 Bedroom$2,101450 ft³$4.67
2 Bedrooms$3,464750 ft³$4.62
3 Bedrooms$5,0261100 ft³$4.57
4 Bedrooms$7,2301600 ft³$4.52
5+ Bedrooms$8,0441800 ft³$4.47
*Please note: These Illinois to Kentucky moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Illinois & Kentucky. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed IL to KY mover.
Illinois iconArrow iconKentucky icon
U-turn icon

Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Lexington to Chicago guide.

Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Lexington Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

606 Movers, Inc. Logo

606 Movers, Inc.

Exceptional9.37/10
based on 1,042+ data points

159 N Sangamon St Suite 300

Chicago, IL, 60607

About 606 Movers, Inc.

606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly moving...

Services

  • Residential Movers
  • Commercial Movers
  • Packing & Unpacking Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3476069 / 1139300

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2021)
View Full Review
1
Move-tastic! Logo

Move-tastic!

Exceptional9.35/10
based on 13,660+ data points

3100 N Tripp Ave

Chicago, IL, 60641

About Move-tastic!

What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...

Services

  • Full Moves
  • Truck Loading and Unloading
  • Interstate Moving Assistance

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1906350 / 675927

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans15
Registered Drivers28
Total Annual Miles Moved90,866 (2023)
View Full Review
2
A1 Movers, Inc Logo

A1 Movers, Inc

Exceptional9.34/10
based on 683+ data points

315 S Harrison St

Geneva, IL, 60134

About A1 Movers, Inc

A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company...

Services

  • LOCAL MOVES
  • LONG DISTANCE MOVES
  • PACKING SERVICES

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3309154 / 1055273

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved6,800 (2024)
View Full Review
3
From Here to There Logo

From Here to There

Exceptional9.16/10
based on 614+ data points

Lexington, KY, 40507

About From Here to There

From Here to There is a local moving and logistics company based in Lexington, Kentucky, established by long-time friends with extensive...

Services

  • Residential Move
  • Long-Distance/Interstate Moves
  • Commercial/Office Moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3481118 / 1254688

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,500 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving Logo

Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving

Superb8.77/10
based on 1,450+ data points

1861 Williamson Ct

Louisville, KY, 40223

About Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving

Your one-stop-shop moving company in Louisville, Neutz Sons & Daughters Moving serves local Kentucky and Southern Indiana residents and businesses with...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Packing

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1834511 / 1460292

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
Rankings You Can Trust background image
Trust Rankings icon

Dependable Rankings You Can Count On!

Our rankings are data-driven — movers cannot purchase a spot on our list. Here's why you can have confidence in our recommendations:

  • No Paid Placements: Every company earns its spot through merit, not payment.
  • Extensive Analysis: Evaluated over 24,000 movers across the country for our rankings.

Chicago vs. Lexington Neighborhood Comparison

If you're venturing from the Windy City to the Horse Capital of the World, this guide will help you acclimate by using your existing stomping grounds as a reference. By comparing these local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Lexington, KY , you'll familiarize yourself with what your new home has to offer.

ChicagoLexingtonHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkChevy ChaseUpscale, vibrant nightlife
Wicker ParkDistillery DistrictArts scene, hip culture
Gold CoastBeaumont ParkAffluent, luxury shopping
LakeviewSouthlandYoung professionals, bustling bars
West LoopDowntown LexingtonFoodies' paradise, urban feel
Logan SquareWoodland ParkCreative community, festivals
River NorthWarehouse BlockChic galleries, dining
Old TownHistoric South HillHistoric charm, local theaters
AndersonvilleKensingtonDiverse, indie shops
Hyde ParkUniversity of Kentucky AreaAcademic, cultural attractions

Moving from Chicago, you might find Lincoln Park's charisma reminiscent of Chevy Chase, where upscale vibes meet lively nightlife with hotspots like Level Up. Wicker Park's eclectic arts scene and trendy atmosphere mirror the Distillery District's hip culture, where art galleries and craft breweries abound. If you cherish Lakeview's young and energetic environment, Southland offers similar energy with its rich tapestry of vibrant bars and bustling street life. And for those who savor culinary adventures in the West Loop, Downtown Lexington's award-winning eateries can't be missed. Dive into Lexington's Warehouse Block for a taste of the chic galleries and stylish dining you loved in River North. Each neighborhood offers parks like Woodland Park in Lexington, blending festive community events with creative flair.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Lexington

  • Explore Kentucky Horse Park
  • Stroll through Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate
  • Sample bourbon at Buffalo Trace Distillery
  • Attend a race at Keeneland Racetrack
  • Discover art at Lexington Art League
  • Watch a movie at Kentucky Theater
  • Enjoy live music at The Burl

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Lexington

Moving from one city to another involves weighing various factors to make an informed decision. In this guide, we will provide a comparison between Chicago, IL, and Lexington, KY, to show an honest reflection of the pros and cons associated with this relocation. By examining these aspects, you’ll gain insights into what life might be like in your new home compared to your old one.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher crime rates
  • Costly living
  • Cold winters
  • Traffic congestion
  • Limited green space
Lexington, KY iconLexington, KY
  • Lower crime rates
  • More affordable
  • Milder winters
  • Less traffic
  • Abundant greenery
Lexington, KY iconLexington, KY
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Lesser variety
  • Fewer landmarks
  • Less public transit
  • Fewer major teams
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Diverse cuisine
  • Cultural landmarks
  • Extensive transit
  • Major sports teams

When considering a move from Chicago to Lexington, it's important to delve into the lifestyle changes that await you. Chicago, known for its vibrant energy, offers an array of internationally recognized landmarks such as the Art Institute of Chicago and famous dining spots like Giordano's for deep-dish pizza enthusiasts. On the other hand, Lexington brings a more laid-back atmosphere coupled with a close-knit community feel. Here, you can enjoy serene walks through the Lexington’s park system or indulge in the local cuisine, celebrated especially at establishments like Dudley's on Short. By transitioning, you're not just changing locations; you're embracing a different pace of life that highlights community engagement and outdoor activities, offering a refreshing departure from the bustling city life of Chicago.

Chicago vs. Lexington Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Lexington to give you a better understanding of the food scene where you're moving to. Food plays a key role in experiencing local culture, and knowing what culinary delights await can help set your expectations and excite your palate.

Chicago
Lexington
Most iconic local food item
Deep-dish pizza
Hot Brown sandwich
Most popular meat dish
Italian beef
BBQ mutton
Most popular street food item
Chicago-style hot dog
Burgoo
Most popular vegan food
Seitan wings
BBQ jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Lou Malnati’s
  • Portillo's
  • Alinea
  • Dudley's on Short
  • Keeneland
  • Blue Heron Steakhouse
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Chicago to Lexington, you'll transition from the bustling city known for its deep-dish pizza and extensive vegan options to a city steeped in Southern hospitality and cuisine. In Lexington, the Hot Brown sandwich, a local delicacy made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce, is a must-try. You'll find this iconic dish and other local favorites at places like Dudley's on Short, nestled within the historic district. Lexington's emerging foodie scene includes an appreciation for local BBQ flavors, with BBQ mutton and BBQ jackfruit standing out as popular meat and vegan options, respectively. While Lexington might not have the abundance of food trucks or the wide array of vegan establishments found in Chicago, you'll discover a warm, evolving food scene that reflects Kentucky's rich culinary traditions and locally sourced pride.

Chicago vs. Lexington Restaurant Comparison

Finding your new favorite eateries in Lexington by comparing them to Chicago's top restaurants is essential for making a new area feel like home. Whether you're craving high-end dining experiences or casual bites, this guide bridges the gap between old favorites and new discoveries.

ChicagoLexingtonWhat You'll Love
AlineaOuita Michel's HoneywoodSophisticated dining with innovative dishes
Portillo'sStella's Kentucky DeliIconic for its local comfort food
Girl & The GoatLockboxCreative American cuisine in a chic setting
Lou Malnati's PizzeriaGoodfellas PizzeriaFamous for deep-dish and a vibrant atmosphere
The Purple PigSmithtown SeafoodFocus on shared plates and locally sourced seafood
Rick Bayless' Frontera GrillCorto LimaOffers a modern twist on Latin American cuisines
Gibsons Bar & SteakhouseTony's of LexingtonRenowned for steaks and upscale dining experience
Publican AnkerDudley's on ShortKnown for local, farm-to-table ethos
RPM ItalianJoe Bologna'sAuthentic Italian dishes served in a cozy setting
Virtue Restaurant & BarCarson's Food & DrinkOffers a southern twist on classic American fare

When transitioning from Chicago's dynamic food scene to Lexington's burgeoning culinary landscape, you'll find enticing parallels that promise to delight. Honeywood stands out as Lexington's answer to Alinea, offering sophisticated dining with a creative twist on Kentucky's local ingredients, evoking a comparable innovative experience. For pizza aficionados missing Lou Malnati's, Goodfellas Pizzeria in Lexington brings a touch of Chicago with their authentic deep-dish pizzas in a spirited environment, ensuring a smooth transition for deep-dish pizza lovers. Meanwhile, fans of The Purple Pig’s shared plates will appreciate the focus on community and local sourcing at Smithtown Seafood. This guide aims to bridge the culinary gap, making your move a little tastier.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Chicago vs. Lexington Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly influences the decision to relocate, making it essential to compare the housing landscapes of both cities. This comparison explores key aspects such as cost, architecture, walkability, and more, highlighting the contrasts and conveniences of Chicago, IL and Lexington, KY to guide your impending move.

Chicago
Lexington
Typical Architecture Style
Modern and Historic Mix
Colonial and Ranch
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to public transport, Lake views
Spacious yards, Horse farms nearby

In detail, the housing market vastly differs between Chicago and Lexington, reflecting each city's unique lifestyle and cultural offerings. For instance, Chicago's architecture blends modern skyscrapers with historic buildings, catering to those who appreciate variety and the urban landscape. On the other hand, Lexington's Colonial and Ranch-style homes offer a more traditional American living experience, with spacious yards commonly highlighted in real estate listings pointing to a preference for more outdoor space. Furthermore, Chicago's higher urban lifestyle rating underscores its extensive amenities, vibrant nightlife, and diverse culinary scene, compared to Lexington's quieter, more laid-back environment. These insights into the housing and lifestyle of each city can significantly influence your decision on where to call your next home.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Lexington, KY

1. Chevy Chase : This charming neighborhood offers you plenty of green spaces and walkable streets, ideal for pet owners seeking a friendly community.

2. Beaumont Reserve : With its extensive trails and proximity to parks, you’ll find it perfect for enjoying outdoor activities with your furry friends.

3. Beaumont Park : Known for its spacious yards and community atmosphere, you’ll appreciate the welcoming setting for pets and their owners alike.

Chicago vs. Lexington Weather Considerations

When relocating from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares is vital. This guide provides a detailed comparison to help you adapt from Chicago, IL to Lexington, KY. Reviewing these differences will prepare you for what to expect in your new home.

Chicago
Lexington
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Blizzards, Severe Storms
Severe Storms, Tornadoes
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

83°F / 63°F
85°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

36°F / 22°F
44°F / 28°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

36
45
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

36
13


In terms of weather, moving from Chicago to Lexington means slightly warmer winters and a bit more sunshine. Lexington experiences milder winters with less snowfall than Chicago, making it easier for those not fond of harsh winter months. Despite the similarities in summer temperatures, Lexington does tend to have slightly more rainfall annually, which contributes to the lush landscapes of the region. The air quality in Lexington is generally considered to be better than in Chicago, a factor that may be particularly relevant for individuals with respiratory conditions or those who are outdoor enthusiasts.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Lexington

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial climate in Chicago compares to Lexington. This guide will help you comprehend the differences in money and finance-related aspects, aiding in a smoother transition.

Chicago
Lexington
Avg. Household Income
$66,576
$60,942
Cost of Living Index
116.9
92.8
State Income Tax
4.95 (flat)
5.0 (flat)
Avg. Property Tax
2.16
1.20
Avg. Sales Tax
10.25
6.00
Top 3 Industries
Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology
Horse Breeding, Healthcare, Education
Affluence
Varied
Moderate
Poverty
Substantial
Moderate
Homelessness
Noticeable
Less noticeable

Moving from Chicago to Lexington, you'll notice your dollar might stretch further, especially when it comes to housing and taxes. Lexington boasts a lower average property tax and sales tax compared to the higher rates in Chicago. This is complemented by Lexington's cost of living which is significantly lower than Chicago's. While the average household income in Lexington is slightly lower, the reduced expenses could balance out your financial situation. Additionally, the noticeable difference in the top industries hints at a potential shift in employment opportunities, which could be crucial in planning your career path post-move.

Chicago vs. Lexington Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another can be a journey not just in distance but in cultural shifts as well. Knowing the similarities and differences in community values can help you feel more at home in your new city. This quick guide provides a snapshot into the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Chicago & Lexington , offering insight into what you might expect in your new environment.

Chicago
Lexington
Political Make-up
Heavily Democratic
Leans Republican
Local Politics
Progressive policies
More conservative, but with a mix of progressive views
Religion
Diverse, with a significant Catholic population
Primarily Christian, with a strong Baptist presence

Chicago and Lexington contrast sharply in their political landscapes, with the former having a strong Democratic leaning reinforced by its urban setting, and the latter displaying a more Republican tilt, although local politics show a blend of conservative and progressive influences due to its smaller, yet diverse population. Religious life in both cities reflects their political leanings somewhat; Chicago’s diverse religious scene matches its cosmopolitan vibe, while Lexington’s predominantly Christian faith base aligns with more traditional Southern values. Understanding these aspects can help you anticipate the community dynamics in your new hometown.

Chicago vs. Lexington Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your daily commute and interaction with traffic and public transportation. This brief guide is designed to help you understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Lexington, likely altering your approach to navigating these urban landscapes.

Chicago
Lexington
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
34
22
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
9 out of 10
5 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes
No

In Chicago, the vast CTA network considerably eases the need for a personal vehicle, especially within the city's core and along well-established transit routes, making it highly feasible to commute without owning a car. Meanwhile, Lexington's public transportation options are more limited, impacting those who prefer or require public transit for their daily commutes. Despite Lexington's lower traffic congestion scores, the relative scarcity of public transit options means that personal vehicle ownership is more of a necessity for efficient navigation around the city. This stark difference in public transit availability fundamentally changes the approach to daily commuting in these cities.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Chicago to Lexington Movers Featured Image