Best Chicago to Jersey City Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Chicago to Jersey City and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 821 mile move from Illinois to New Jersey go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 74 Chicago to Jersey City 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 JP Urban Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago compared to Jersey City. 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.

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Best Chicago to Jersey City Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1JP Urban Moving9.859.78Authorized For HHG
2Avant-Garde Moving & Storage9.659.54Authorized For HHG
3606 Movers, Inc.9.379.27Authorized For Property, HHG
4Move-tastic!9.359.37Authorized For HHG
5A1 Movers, Inc9.349.57Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Chicago to Jersey City?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 821 miles from Chicago, IL to Jersey City, NJ will cost on average $2,479 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Jersey City move is roughly $5,951. 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$1,668300 ft³$5.56
1 Bedroom$2,479450 ft³$5.51
2 Bedrooms$4,095750 ft³$5.46
3 Bedrooms$5,9511100 ft³$5.41
4 Bedrooms$8,5761600 ft³$5.36
5+ Bedrooms$9,5581800 ft³$5.31
*Please note: These Illinois to New Jersey moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Illinois & New Jersey. 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 NJ mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Jersey City to Chicago guide.

Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Jersey City Movers

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

JP Urban Moving Logo

JP Urban Moving

Exceptional9.85/10
based on 3,812+ data points

266 St Marks Ave 3rd fl

Brooklyn, NY, 11238

About JP Urban Moving

JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to...

Services

  • Local NYC Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Office Moving, Business Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2096754 / 882954

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved120,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Avant-Garde Moving & Storage Logo

Avant-Garde Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.65/10
based on 1,274+ data points

42 West St

Brooklyn, NY, 11222

About Avant-Garde Moving & Storage

Based in Brooklyn, Avant-Garde Moving & Storage has provided unique and innovative moving solutions for over 10 years. As a locally...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3579996 / 1208919

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved5,000 (2023)
View Full Review
2
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
3
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
4
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
5
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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. Jersey City Neighborhood Comparison

By comparing neighborhoods between cities, you can get a feel for your new surroundings. Use this guide to find the best compare neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Jersey City, NJ and make the transition smoother with familiarity.

ChicagoJersey CityHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkDowntown Jersey CityVibrant and cultural with a mix of residential areas and recreational spaces
Wicker ParkThe HeightsTrendy area with eclectic boutiques and vibrant arts scene
Gold CoastWaterfrontUpscale living with affluent retail and dining options
LakeviewJournal SquareResidential hub with diverse dining and entertainment options
Hyde ParkWest SideHistoric, cultural center with rich history and academic presence
River NorthExchange PlaceBeautiful skyline views and a bustling nightlife scene
AndersonvilleBergen-LafayetteDiverse community known for quaint shopping and local eateries
South LoopGreenvilleUrban area with residential perks and close proximity to transportation
West LoopMcGinley SquareUp-and-coming area with developing food and drink scene
Logan SquareLiberty State ParkHip area with creative community feel and open spaces

If you enjoy the cultural vibrancy and recreational opportunities of Lincoln Park, the Downtown Jersey City area offers a similar mix, with green spaces like Liberty State Park and a dynamic urban culture. Wicker Park's trendy vibe has its parallel in The Heights, known for its artistic communities and unique shopping experiences. For those drawn to the upscale environments of the Gold Coast, Jersey City's Waterfront area delivers a luxury lifestyle with high-end dining and impressive river views. Meanwhile, if Hyde Park's historic charm and academic influence appeal to you, the West Side of Jersey City houses a rich tapestry of cultural histories. Each neighborhood draws you in with its own blend of local flavors, inviting you to explore and settle in your new city with ease.

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Things to Do in Jersey City

  • Explore Liberty State Park on foot
  • Take a ferry ride to Statue of Liberty
  • Visit the Liberty Science Center with kids
  • Stroll along the Jersey City Waterfront Walkway
  • Enjoy live music at White Eagle Hall
  • Savor cuisine at a downtown restaurant
  • Attend a workshop at Mana Contemporary

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Jersey City

Moving from city to city is an adventure that comes with its unique set of challenges and rewards. This guide is intended to provide an honest reflection of moving from Chicago, IL to Jersey City, NJ , spotlighting the significant contrasts in living conditions, weather patterns, and lifestyle changes. By comparing the cons of living in Chicago with the pros found in Jersey City , as well as the pros of residing in Chicago against Jersey City's cons , you'll gain a clearer picture of what to expect from this relocation.

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Harsh winters
  • Higher crime rates
  • Costly living
  • Less public transit options
Jersey City, NJ iconJersey City, NJ
  • Milder winters
  • Lower crime rates
  • More affordable living
  • Extensive public transit
Jersey City, NJ iconJersey City, NJ
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Fewer job industries
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Fewer large parks
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Greater job opportunities
  • Rich cultural experiences
  • Iconic city parks

Moving from Chicago to Jersey City offers an exciting opportunity to experience a different pace of life. While you might miss the extensive green spaces like Chicago's Lincoln Park or the hustle and bustle of Michigan Avenue, Jersey City greets you with its own charm. The Liberty State Park provides stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline, turning a casual stroll into a breathtaking experience. Culinary enthusiasts will delight in exploring the diverse food scene, from the authentic Italian cuisine at Razza Pizza Artigianale to vibrant waterfront dining experiences at Battello. Jersey City also serves as a gateway to New York City's endless cultural and professional opportunities, thanks to its extensive public transit options. This move might mean saying goodbye to some of Chicago's iconic sights but welcomes the promise of discovering new favorites in Jersey City.

Chicago vs. Jersey City Food Guide

Exploring new cities means diving into their local cuisines, and food plays a crucial role in understanding the local culture and lifestyle. To help you transition smoothly, we're presenting a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Jersey City so you can familiarize yourself with the culinary scene you're moving into.

Chicago
Jersey City
Most iconic local food item
Deep-dish pizza
Taylor ham, egg, and cheese
Most popular meat dish
Italian Beef
Jersey-style hot dogs
Most popular street food item
Chicago-style hot dog
Street tacos
Most popular vegan food
Seitan-based dishes
Jackfruit tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
  • Au Cheval
  • Giordano's
  • Razza Pizza Artigianale
  • Honey Bakery
  • Porta
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
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🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Chicago, the deep-dish pizza is an unmissable culinary icon, with legendary establishments like Lou Malnati's and Giordano’s serving up this quintessential dish. The city's Italian beef and Chicago-style hot dogs are also must-tries for meat lovers. Conversely, in Jersey City, the combination of Taylor ham, egg, and cheese offers a unique breakfast experience, and its proximity to New York means a diverse street food scene, including mouthwatering street tacos. Jersey City's food scene, highlighted by restaurants like Razza Pizza Artigianale, showcases an eclectic mix of cuisines, reflecting its vibrant, diverse cultural fabric. With a slightly higher score in health conscientiousness and vegan-friendliness, Jersey City may appeal more to those with dietary preferences looking for varied options.

Chicago vs. Jersey City Restaurant Comparison

Relocating can be a bountiful quest for new beginnings, especially when it involves moving your taste buds from one city's cherished eateries to another. Our comparison of top restaurants from Chicago to Jersey City will guide you in finding your next favorite dining spots, making the transition feel like a gastronomic adventure rather than a daunting task.

ChicagoJersey CityWhat You'll Love
AlineaMaritime ParcOffers innovative, artistically plated dishes in a high-end setting.
Girl & The GoatPorta Jersey CityKnown for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic menu that mirrors the creative flair of Girl & The Goat.
Portillo'sRazza Pizza ArtigianaleFamous for its high-quality comfort food, akin to the iconic offerings at Portillo's.
The Purple PigHamilton PorkBoth specialize in succulent, creatively prepared meat dishes, offering a cozy, indulgent dining experience.
Giordano'sRazza Pizza ArtigianaleAgain, for its superb pizza, creating a Chicago-like deep dish experience.
Smoque BBQHamilton PorkTheir barbecue technique and flavors are reminiscent of the famed Smoque BBQ’s tender, smoke-infused meats.
The Signature Room at the 95thLiberty House RestaurantOffers stunning skyline views and a sophisticated menu that can rival the dining experience at The Signature Room.
Rick Bayless' Frontera GrillTaqueria DowntownCelebrated for its authentic Mexican food, echoing the culinary excellence of Frontera Grill.
Lou Malnati's PizzeriaRazza Pizza ArtigianaleYet again, for its dough-centric approach that evokes Lou Malnati's cherished crust.
Au ChevalLeft Bank Burger BarBurgers that challenge even the most legendary at Au Cheval with their unique blend of flavors and ingredients.

As you make your way to Jersey City, indulge in a slice of Razza Pizza Artigianale's artisanal pizza, where the emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and inventive concoctions promises an echo of Giordano's deep-dish delight and Lou Malnati's renowned crust. For those craving the innovative culinary arts of a high-end dining experience akin to Alinea, Maritime Parc awaits with its own artistic plating and sophisticated ambiance. Transitioning from Chicago's famed eateries to Jersey City's gems doesn't mean a compromise on taste or experience; rather, it offers a new spectrum of flavors ready to be your next favorites. Both cities boast a vibrant food scene, ensuring that you don't miss out on the gastronomic diversity and culinary excellence you've grown to love.

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Ready to start your move?

Chicago vs. Jersey City Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts your relocation experience, making it crucial to understand how housing in Chicago, IL, and Jersey City, NJ compares. This comparison will highlight necessary details to consider for your move.

Chicago
Jersey City
Typical Architecture Style
Modern and Historical Mix
Modern, Brownstone, and Victorian
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Lake Views, Proximity to Public Transit
Proximity to NYC, Modern Amenities

Chicago and Jersey City present contrasting yet attractive options regarding housing and lifestyle. In Chicago, the blend of modern and historical architecture contributes to the city's unique charm, with many properties boasting stunning lake views. The city scores well in urban lifestyle and is moderately walkable and bikeable, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a balance of convenience and comfort. Jersey City, on the other hand, excels in walkability and urban living, given its proximity to New York City. The higher median home price and rent reflect its popularity and demand, especially among those seeking modern amenities and easy access to the bustling life of NYC. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant streets of Jersey City or the diverse architecture of Chicago, each city offers its unique allure to residents.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Jersey City, NJ

1. Downtown Jersey City: You'll find numerous pet-friendly parks and amenities, making it a lively and accommodating area for you and your furry friend.

2. The Heights: With its many open spaces and dog parks, The Heights is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities with your pet.

3. Paulus Hook: This neighborhood is known for its welcoming community of pet owners and a variety of pet-friendly cafes and businesses.

Chicago vs. Jersey City Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another involves adaptation in many areas, including getting used to new weather patterns. This comparison between Chicago, IL weather and Jersey City, NJ weather is crucial for understanding what to expect and how to prepare for your new environment.

Chicago
Jersey City
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Snowstorms, Extreme Cold
Hurricanes, Flooding
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85°F / 65°F
85°F / 69°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

32°F / 18°F
40°F / 26°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

36
47
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

36
25


While both Chicago and Jersey City share similar highs during the summer, winters in Jersey City are milder than the windy and colder winters of Chicago. Notably, Jersey City enjoys more days of sunshine each year. Despite this, it receives higher annual rainfall. Snow lovers might find Chicago more appealing as it sees higher snowfall. The risk of natural disasters shifts from snowstorms and extreme cold in Chicago to hurricanes and potential flooding in Jersey City. Understanding these differences helps you better prepare for seasonal changes and what precautions to take in your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When weighing the decision to move from one city to another, it's crucial to compare financial aspects to gauge how your budget and lifestyle will be affected. This comparison highlights the financial implications of moving from Chicago, IL to Jersey City, NJ , giving you a clearer picture of what to expect in terms of income and expenses.

Chicago
Jersey City
Avg. Household Income
$66,576
$81,958
Cost of Living Index
116.9
129.7
State Income Tax
4.95
5.525 to 10.75
Avg. Property Tax
2.10
1.48
Avg. Sales Tax
10.25
6.625
Top 3 Industries
Manufacturing, Retail, Healthcare
Finance, Transportation, Wholesale Trade
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Noticeable
Moderate
Homelessness
Significant
Lower than national average

Upon moving from Chicago to Jersey City, you'll encounter different financial landscapes. The average household income is slightly higher in Jersey City, but this is counterbalanced by a higher cost of living index, nudging you towards a careful consideration of your budgeting needs. Additionally, while Jersey City boasts a vibrant finance and transport industry, offering novel career opportunities, the state income tax range is broader and could potentially be higher depending on your income bracket. The silver lining includes a lower average property tax and sales tax, making certain expenses more manageable compared to Chicago. Understanding these nuances will equip you better for a smoother transition.

Chicago vs. Jersey City Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from Chicago, IL, to Jersey City, NJ, comes with its nuances, especially when considering the community and environment you're transitioning into. This guide offers a quick glance at a unique comparison between the political and religious makeup of Chicago & Jersey City , giving you insight into the local demographics and ideological landscapes of your new home.

Chicago
Jersey City
Political Make-up
Strongly Democratic
Strongly Democratic
Local Politics
Emphasis on social justice and reform
Focus on diversity and inclusivity initiatives
Religion
Diverse, with significant Catholic presenceChicago Archdiocese
Diverse, prominent Catholic and Muslim communitiesDiocese of Trenton, <a href="https://www.icofa.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Islamic Center of America</a>

Both Chicago and Jersey City showcase a strongly Democratic political leaning, but the shift from Chicago to Jersey City will immerse you in a locale where local politics keenly focus on diversity and inclusion, reflecting the city's vibrant and varied demographic. While you'll find a wide range of religious communities in both cities, Jersey City is distinct for its significant Muslim presence alongside a robust Catholic community. This rich religious and cultural diversity is part of what makes Jersey City unique, offering new residents a chance to engage with a wide array of cultural and social perspectives.

Chicago vs. Jersey City Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Chicago, IL to Jersey City, NJ marks a significant change, especially in terms of daily commutes. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Jersey City is designed to help you better understand what your daily travel might look like in these cities.

Chicago
Jersey City
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
34
31
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
8 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
9 out of 10
8 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Yes
Yes

Both Chicago and Jersey City offer robust public transit systems that make it entirely feasible to live without a car. Chicago's CTA provides extensive bus and train routes, which cover not just the city but many suburbs as well. Similarly, Jersey City, with its access to the NJ Transit, PATH trains, and ferries, presents a well-connected framework for getting around—especially beneficial for those working in Manhattan. However, prepare for denser traffic congestion in Jersey City, which might slightly elevate the stress levels during peak hours compared to Chicago. Understanding these dynamics will ensure you can plan your days more effectively, potentially saving you time and enhancing your quality of life after the move.

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