Best Chicago to Omaha Movers + Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Get a quote now.

If you're moving from Chicago to Omaha and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 469 mile move from Illinois to Nebraska go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 41 Chicago to Omaha 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 King's Moving - Moving Company in Omaha), 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 Omaha. 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 Omaha Interstate Movers Featured Image

Best Chicago to Omaha Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1King's Moving - Moving Company in Omaha9.489.64Authorized For HHG
2606 Movers, Inc.9.379.27Authorized For Property, HHG
3Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHG
4A1 Movers, Inc9.349.57Authorized For HHG
5Tetris Movers9.209.1Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

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

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 469 miles from Chicago, IL to Omaha, NE will cost on average $2,180 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Omaha move is roughly $5,219. 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$1,468300 ft³$4.89
1 Bedroom$2,180450 ft³$4.84
2 Bedrooms$3,596750 ft³$4.79
3 Bedrooms$5,2191100 ft³$4.74
4 Bedrooms$7,5111600 ft³$4.69
5+ Bedrooms$8,3601800 ft³$4.64
*Please note: These Illinois to Nebraska moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Illinois & Nebraska. 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 NE mover.
Illinois iconArrow iconNebraska icon
U-turn icon

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

Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Omaha Movers

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

King's Moving - Moving Company in Omaha Logo

King's Moving - Moving Company in Omaha

Exceptional9.48/10
based on 2,264+ data points

13515 I Cir

Omaha, NE, 68137

About King's Moving - Moving Company in Omaha

Whether you're relocating within the city or have a long-distance move, Omaha, NE movers have you covered. One such company is...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Residential moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

960979 / 954013

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans4
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved65,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
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
2
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
3
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
4
Tetris Movers Logo

Tetris Movers

Exceptional9.20/10
based on 344+ data points

Mondamin, IA, 51557

About Tetris Movers

Tetris Movers is a locally-operated moving company serving clients locally and long distance, boasting over 15 years of experience in the...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Cost Effective Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3909440 / 1442651

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers4
Total Annual Miles Moved7,500 (2023)
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. Omaha Neighborhood Comparison

Whether you're leaving behind the Windy City or embracing the charm of Nebraska’s largest city, this comparison will help you familiarize yourself with unfamiliar areas. By comparing notable neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Omaha, NE , you can navigate your move with ease.

ChicagoOmahaHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkDundeeHistoric homes and vibrant culture
Wicker ParkBensonArtsy vibe with trendy bars and shops
LakeviewAksarbenFamily-friendly with lively events
The LoopDowntown OmahaBusiness district with arts and entertainment
Gold CoastBlackstoneHistoric charm and luxury living
AndersonvilleOld MarketEclectic and vibrant with unique boutiques
Hyde ParkSouth OmahaCultural diversity and community events
River NorthNorth DowntownArt galleries and bustling nightlife
Old TownLittle BohemiaQuaint streets with historic flair
Logan SquareField ClubTree-lined streets and community feel

If you find comfort in Lincoln Park's historic homes and vibrant cultural scene, you'll feel at home in Omaha’s Dundee neighborhood, which offers a similar historic charm with its own arts scene. For those who revel in the artsy vibe and nightlife of Wicker Park, Benson's trendy bars and creative spirit will be a perfect fit, offering new hubs to explore. Downtown Omaha mirrors the buzz and business-centric atmosphere of The Loop, all while infusing it with local flair, offering prime access to art and entertainment. Meanwhile, the Old Market captures Andersonville's eclectic essence, boasting a myriad of unique boutiques and dining options. For an escape into local history blended with luxury, Blackstone's mix of historic charm will resonate well with those familiar with the upscale allure of Chicago's Gold Coast.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Omaha

  • Explore Lauritzen Gardens' botanical beauty
  • Discover Omaha's history at The Durham Museum
  • Enjoy a day at Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium
  • Catch a show at Orpheum Theater
  • Stroll through Omaha's Old Market district
  • Attend a UNO Mavericks game
  • Sample craft beers at local breweries

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Omaha

Moving from one city to another can be a significant change, but evaluating both sides can help make the decision easier. This guide aims to reflect the honest attributes of relocating from Chicago, IL to Omaha, NE, presenting a balanced view of the pros and cons. Understanding these aspects can provide clarity and help in making an informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Higher living costs
  • Dense traffic
  • Winters can be harsh
  • Higher crime rates
Omaha, NE iconOmaha, NE
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less congestion
  • Milder winters
  • Lower crime rates
Omaha, NE iconOmaha, NE
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Limited public transit
  • Fewer dining options
  • Quieter nightlife
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Vast public transit
  • Diverse dining options
  • Abundant nightlife

While the cost of living and crime rates might be concerns in Chicago, the city boasts a vibrant cultural scene, extensive public transit, and a wide array of dining options from famed restaurants like Alinea to cozy neighborhood spots like Lou Malnati's. On the flip side, Omaha offers a more laid-back pace of life with lower living expenses and a strong sense of community. Though its cultural scene may seem smaller, notable places such as Joslyn Art Museum and unique dining experiences at Mr. Durian's paint a vibrant, growing city. Both cities boast beautiful parks, with Chicago’s Lakeshore Drive and Omaha’s Heartland of America Park, offering green spaces for relaxation and leisure. The transition might come with its set of adjustments, but each city presents unique opportunities and lifestyles worth exploring.

Chicago vs. Omaha Food Guide

When relocating, the flavors of a city can deeply influence your day-to-day life, making the local food scene an essential aspect of the move. This comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Omaha will help you grasp the culinary contrasts and delights awaiting in your new home, ensuring you're well-informed about where you'll be dining and socializing.

Chicago
Omaha
Most iconic local food item
Deep Dish Pizza
Omaha Steaks
Most popular meat dish
Italian Beef
Reuben Sandwich
Most popular street food item
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Seitan
Black Bean Burger
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Alinea
  • Giordano's
  • The Purple Pig
  • The Drover
  • M's Pub
  • Block 16
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Omaha, the iconic Omaha Steaks are more than just a meal; they represent the city's rich history in the meatpacking industry, marking Omaha as a steak lover's paradise. You can savor these and other meaty delights, like the Reuben sandwich, said to be invented in Omaha, in the historic Old Market neighborhood, where plenty of restaurants like The Drover offer a cozy, rustic ambiance. Besides, Omaha's growing food scene is also evident in its street food offering, with tacos being a crowd favorite, reflecting a diverse culinary influence. Whether you're exploring the burgeoning vegan options or sinking your teeth into the local meat specialties, Omaha promises a hearty welcome to all food enthusiasts.

Chicago vs. Omaha Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite spot to dine is crucial in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison from Chicago to Omaha is aimed at helping you transition smoothly by matching your beloved Chicago eats with Omaha's finest. Whether you crave high-end dining or casual bites, use this guide to discover your next go-to restaurant.

ChicagoOmahaWhat You'll Love
AlineaThe Boiler Roomoffers an exquisite fine dining experience similar to Alinea’s innovative approach
Portillo'sRunzaKnown for its hearty, comfort food that echoes Portillo's beloved Chicago-style offerings
Giordano'sOrsi's Italian Bakery & PizzeriaDelivers deep-dish delights that rival Giordano’s iconic pies
The Purple PigBlock 16Casual yet trendy spot with a farm-to-table ethos reminiscent of The Purple Pig
Rick Bayless' Frontera GrillMula Mexican Kitchen & TequileriaOffers authentic and innovative Mexican cuisine akin to Frontera Grill
Girl & The GoatThe Grey PlumeCreative, locally-sourced dishes that parallel the pioneering spirit of Girl & The Goat
Au ChevalStella’s Bar & GrillFamous for their burgers, a worthy rival to Au Cheval’s renowned offerings
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabPlank Seafood ProvisionsFor a similarly upscale seafood and steak dining experience
Lou Malnati's PizzeriaZio's PizzeriaServes up a taste of Chicago with its deep-dish pizzas, echoing Lou Malnati's essence
Smoque BBQTired Texan BBQBrings authentic, slow-smoked barbeque to Omaha, much like Smoque’s famed dishes

While Omaha might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of culinary destinations, it holds its own with a vibrant food scene that can satisfy even the most particular Chicagoan's pallet. For example, The Boiler Room's artful preparation of local ingredients provides a gastronomical journey akin to the renowned Alinea, ensuring that fine dining enthusiasts need not compromise on quality or creativity. Meanwhile, Orsi's Italian Bakery & Pizzeria's heartwarming deep-dish pizzas promise a slice of Chicago right here in Omaha, embodying the spirit and flavor of Giordano’s famous pies. Finally, for those missing the unparalleled burgers of Au Cheval, Stella’s Bar & Grill stands ready to satisfy your cravings with its succulent offerings, proving that Omaha's culinary scene might just be your new gastronomic haven.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Chicago vs. Omaha Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate plays a crucial role in the decision to move. Understanding how Chicago and Omaha compare in terms of housing costs, styles, and livability will empower you to make an informed choice. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences and similarities between these two diverse cities.

Chicago
Omaha
Typical Architecture Style
Gothic Revival and Chicago School
Prairie and Bungalow
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Lake views, accessibility
Spacious yards, family-friendly

In comparing Chicago and Omaha's real estate landscapes, several distinct differences and attractions emerge. Chicago, with its higher median home prices and rent, offers an urban lifestyle rich in cultural attractions, underscored by its Gothic Revival and Chicago School architecture which lines the cityscape. Its higher walkability and bikeability scores reflect a city designed for movement and exploration. Omaha presents a different appeal, leaning towards spacious, family-friendly environments at a lower cost of living. The city's architecture, characterized by Prairie and Bungalow styles, reflects its history and geographical location. While less urban than Chicago, Omaha's growing real estate market and popularity among families highlight its appeal as a place to settle down.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Omaha, NE

1. Dundee : You'll find plenty of tree-lined streets and open spaces for walking your pets in this charming neighborhood.

2. Aksarben Village : With its many parks and dog-friendly events, you and your furry friend will feel right at home here.

3. Midtown : This vibrant area offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and an active pet community to connect with.

Chicago vs. Omaha Weather Considerations

When considering a move from Chicago, IL to Omaha, NE, understanding the differences in climate and weather patterns is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison highlights the boldChicago weather vs. Omaha weather bold to offer insights into what you can expect. Adjusting to new weather conditions can significantly impact your lifestyle and readiness for seasonal changes.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

84°F / 68°F
87°F / 67°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

32°F / 18°F
33°F / 13°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

36"
30"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

36"
28"


While both Chicago and Omaha experience four distinct seasons, you'll find Omaha offers slightly hotter summers and colder winters with more sunlit days annually. This could mean a bit more outdoor time in Omaha, especially during the long summer days. Both cities face their share of natural disasters, with Chicago bracing for blizzards and floods, while Omaha is more prone to tornadoes. Air quality and allergy sufferers will also notice differences; Omaha's generally moderate air quality and similar allergy profiles necessitate readiness for seasonal changes. Familiarizing yourself with these aspects can aid in a smoother adaptation to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move, especially from Chicago, IL to Omaha, NE, it’s crucial to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape will change. This comparison will guide you in adjusting your budget and expectations accordingly.

Chicago
Omaha
Avg. Household Income
$66,576
$62,948
Cost of Living Index
116.9
88.3
State Income Tax
4.95
5.01
Avg. Property Tax
2.1
1.8
Avg. Sales Tax
10.25
7
Top 3 Industries
Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology
Agriculture, Finance, Transportation
Affluence
Moderately affluent
Comparatively comfortable
Poverty
Notable
Lower
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

While Chicago boasts a higher average household income, its cost of living is also notably higher compared to Omaha. This discrepancy means that despite the seemingly lower income in Omaha, your money can often go further due to the lower cost of living, including more affordable property and sales taxes. Moreover, the top industries in each city reflect the economic diversity and opportunities available. While Chicago is a hub for finance and tech, Omaha's strengths in agriculture and transportation offer a different set of prospects. Understanding these financial nuances is essential in planning a comfortable and financially stable move.

Chicago vs. Omaha Political & Religious Comparison

This quick guide offers a snapshot comparison of the political and religious leanings between Chicago & Omaha to help you understand what the population is like in each city. Whether moving for work, family, or a change of scenery, knowing the political and religious makeup of your new home can be insightful.

Chicago
Omaha
Political Make-up
Heavily Democratic
Lean Republican/Conservative
Local Politics
Liberal policies
Moderate with conservative leanings
Religion
Diverse, with a significant Catholic presence
Mixed, with a strong Evangelical Christian presence

Chicago and Omaha differ considerably in their political and religious climates. Chicago is known for its heavily Democratic leanings and liberal policies, which are reflected in city ordinances and public initiatives. In contrast, Omaha has more moderate politics with a conservative edge, particularly at the local level where Republican leadership is more common. Religious diversity is prominent in both cities, with Chicago hosting a wide array of faiths and Omaha having a notable Evangelical Christian community alongside other religious groups. These distinctions are key to understanding the social fabric and community dynamics that you'll be moving into.

Chicago vs. Omaha Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Chicago, IL to Omaha, NE? This section will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like by comparing traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Omaha.

Chicago
Omaha
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
34
19
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
3 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
4 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes, with some planning
No, not easily

As you prepare for your move from Chicago to Omaha, it's evident that the two cities offer contrasting commuting experiences. Chicago's average commute time is nearly double that of Omaha, likely due to Chicago's higher traffic congestion rating. Despite this, Chicago scores significantly higher in terms of public transit availability, making it feasible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle—a stark contrast to Omaha, where a car is almost necessary for daily activities. Understanding these differences can greatly affect your daily life and should be considered when planning your move.

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