Best Chicago to Virginia Beach Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Chicago to Virginia Beach and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 900 mile move from Illinois to Virginia go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 48 Chicago to Virginia Beach 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 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago compared to Virginia Beach. 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 Virginia Beach 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
4Marathon Moving Services9.299.25Authorized For HHG
5Prime Movers USA9.089.39Authorized For Property, HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Chicago to Virginia Beach?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 900 miles from Chicago, IL to Virginia Beach, VA will cost on average $2,547 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Virginia Beach move is roughly $6,115. 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$1,713300 ft³$5.71
1 Bedroom$2,547450 ft³$5.66
2 Bedrooms$4,207750 ft³$5.61
3 Bedrooms$6,1151100 ft³$5.56
4 Bedrooms$8,8141600 ft³$5.51
5+ Bedrooms$9,8261800 ft³$5.46
*Please note: These Illinois to Virginia moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Illinois & Virginia. 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 VA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Virginia Beach to Chicago guide.

Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Virginia Beach 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
Marathon Moving Services Logo

Marathon Moving Services

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.29/10
based on 970+ data points

MMS

Virginia Beach, VA, 23464

About Marathon Moving Services

Are you looking for an independently-owned moving company that provides affordable and reliable moving services in Virginia Beach? Marathon Moving Services...

Services

  • Residential Moves
  • Commercial Moves
  • Packing & Delivery

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3572153 / 1552140

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Prime Movers USA Logo

Prime Movers USA

Exceptional9.08/10
based on 576+ data points

531 Fountain Lake Dr

Virginia Beach, VA, 23451

About Prime Movers USA

Based in Virginia Beach, VA, Prime Movers offers premium moving services at unmatched prices. Founded in 2015, it takes pride in...

Services

  • Local moves (within 50 miles)
  • Long distance moves (over 50 miles)
  • Packing/unpacking services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2995403 / 21183

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved9,060 (2023)
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. Virginia Beach Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city is both exciting and challenging, especially when it comes to picking the right neighborhood. By comparing the local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Virginia Beach, VA , we aim to help you find an area that feels like home in your new city, using your current city's popular neighborhoods as a baseline.

ChicagoVirginia BeachHow They're Similar
Lincoln ParkAlantonProximity to botanical gardens
Wicker ParkVibe DistrictArts and culture scene
The LoopTown CenterCentral business hub
River NorthChic's BeachTrendy cafes and nightlife
Hyde ParkRed Mill FarmCommunity and history presence
Gold CoastNorth EndOceanfront luxury living
BucktownGhentFamily-friendly artistic vibe
South LoopPrincess AnneMix of urban and suburban feel
Old TownSandler Center AreaRich in performance arts
PilsenViBe Creative DistrictCreative artist community

When exploring Virginia Beach, you'll find neighborhoods that mirror the character and charm of Chicago's favorites. If you're drawn to Lincoln Park for its stunning green spaces like the Lincoln Park Zoo, you'll enjoy the lush environment of Alanton, with its proximity to the Norfolk Botanical Garden. For those who relish the eclectic arts and culture vibe of Wicker Park, the Vibe District offers numerous art galleries and creative spaces. Similarly, if The Loop's bustling atmosphere fills your days in Chicago, the Town Center in Virginia Beach, with its bustling shops and business centers, will resonate with your urban lifestyle. Each neighborhood carries its unique appeal, offering amenities and atmospheres that reflect the vibrant communities of Chicago.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Virginia Beach

  • Stroll along Virginia Beach Boardwalk
  • Explore Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
  • Enjoy hikes at First Landing State Park
  • Visit Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Take a dolphin watching tour
  • Surf at Sandbridge Beach
  • Experience Neptune Festival events

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Chicago to Virginia Beach

Moving from one city to another involves considering both the challenges and opportunities that come with such a change. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of moving from Chicago, IL to Virginia Beach, VA , outlining the good and the bad to help you make a well-informed decision. Below, you'll find charts comparing the pros and cons of relocating from Chicago to Virginia Beach .

CONs
PROs
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Harsh winters
  • Higher crime rate
  • Costly living
  • Heavy traffic
  • Limited Beach Access
Virginia Beach, VA iconVirginia Beach, VA
  • Milder winters
  • Lower crime rate
  • More affordable
  • Less congestion
  • Beachfront lifestyle
Virginia Beach, VA iconVirginia Beach, VA
  • Quieter nightlife
  • Fewer cultural venues
  • Less variety in dining
  • Car-dependent
  • Smaller green spaces
Chicago, IL iconChicago, IL
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Rich culture
  • Diverse dining
  • Better public transit
  • Lots of parks

The transition from Chicago's bustling urban environment to Virginia Beach's laid-back coastal vibe can be thrilling yet daunting. While you might miss the expansive greenery of Chicago's parks and its eclectic dining scene, Virginia Beach offers a charming alternative with its picturesque beaches and local seafood restaurants. Neighborhoods like Sandbridge and Chic's Beach provide a serene escape from the city's hustle, while the Virginia Aquarium and Ocean Breeze Waterpark are perfect for family outings. Embrace the change, and you'll discover a new lifestyle filled with sun, sand, and a slower pace of life amidst Virginia Beach's welcoming community.

Chicago vs. Virginia Beach Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Virginia Beach, demonstrating how food plays a crucial role in understanding the culture and lifestyle of a new area. This comparison will help you get a taste of the local scene in both cities before making your move.

Chicago
Virginia Beach
Most iconic local food item
Deep-dish pizza
Seafood, notably crab cakes
Most popular meat dish
Italian beef
Grilled fish
Most popular street food item
Chicago-style hot dog
Oysters
Most popular vegan food
Seitan dishes
Vegan crab cakes
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Alinea
  • The Purple Pig
  • Giordano's
  • Commune
  • Blue Seafood & Spirits
  • Terrapin Restaurant
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from Chicago to Virginia Beach, you'll notice a shift from the hearty, meat-heavy dishes such as deep-dish pizzas and Italian beefs towards fresher, seafood-centric offerings like crab cakes and grilled fish. Virginia Beach, with its coastal location, provides an abundance of fresh seafood, particularly in the Chesapeake Bay area where dining on oysters and crab cakes is a lifestyle. Chicago's food scene is notable for its innovation and deep-rooted traditions, with landmark restaurants like Alinea pushing culinary boundaries. Meanwhile, Virginia Beach offers a more laid-back, health-conscious dining experience, with spots like Commune showcasing local, sustainable ingredients. Whether you're exploring food trucks or fine dining, both cities offer a compelling mix of tastes to explore.

Chicago vs. Virginia Beach Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison is aimed to ease the transition for those moving from Chicago, IL to Virginia Beach, VA by linking familiar dining experiences to new local favorites, bridging homes between Chicago and Virginia Beach. Whether you're craving high-end dining or the comfort of a casual meal, these comparable restaurants will help you feel at home.

ChicagoVirginia BeachWhat You'll Love
AlineaTerrapin RestaurantBoth offer innovative, high-end dining experiences with a focus on local ingredients.
Portillo'sDoc Taylor'sBoth are iconic to their cities offering a casual dining experience with a focus on comfort food.
Girl & The GoatBlue Seafood & SpiritsBoth restaurants provide a foodie adventure with their inventive dishes and focus on fresh ingredients.
Lou Malnati's PizzeriaWindy City PizzaOffering a taste of Chicago with their deep-dish pizzas, it's a slice of home for any Chicagoan.
The Purple PigCommuneBoth establishments offer farm-to-table meals, emphasizing seasonal ingredients in a laid-back atmosphere.
Rick Bayless's Frontera GrillGringo's TaqueriaBoth serve up authentic and innovative Mexican dishes beloved by locals.
Gene & Jude'sRepeal Bourbons and BurgersWhile known for burgers, they also offer a casual feel reminiscent of Gene & Jude’s hot dog simplicity.
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabWaterman's Surfside GrilleBoth are iconic for seafood lovers, offering a range of fresh seafood dishes.
Smoque BBQBeach Bully BBQBoth spots are beloved for their authentic smoky barbecue flavors and laid-back vibes.
The Berghoff RestaurantDas FesthausOffers a similar German dining experience, echoing the traditional flavors found at The Berghoff.

When you move from the bustling city streets of Chicago to the breezy shores of Virginia Beach, you don’t have to leave your culinary comforts behind. Venture to Terrapin Restaurant for an immersive high-end dining experience that mirrors Alinea’s creativity and commitment to local ingredients. On the more casual side, Doc Taylor's captures the same spirit of local gem Portillo's, serving up comfort food in a relaxed, iconic setting to the Virginia Beach community. And for those missing the unique flavors of Girl & The Goat, Blue Seafood & Spirits offers a coastal twist on foodie adventures with its dedication to fresh, sustainable seafood. These comparisons not only promise delightful meals but also the chance to weave the fabric of your new favorite dining spots into your Virginia Beach lifestyle.

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Ready to start your move?

Chicago vs. Virginia Beach Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly influences the decision-making process when relocating. It's essential to comprehend how housing compares between Chicago, IL, and Virginia Beach, VA, focusing on cost, architecture, and lifestyle aspects, which illuminate the essence of each city.

Chicago
Virginia Beach
Typical Architecture Style
Modern and Historical Mix
Coastal and Colonial
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Lake Views, Stainless Steel Appliances
Oceanfront, Spacious Backyards

The urbanity and architectural ambience of both Chicago and Virginia Beach offer distinct living experiences. Chicago boasts a vibrant, bustling urban atmosphere coupled with a mix of modern and historical architecture, giving it a unique edge for those who crave a city lifestyle. The high walkability and bikeability scores reflect an environment conducive to exploring the city's depth. On the other hand, Virginia Beach is characterized by its serene coastal and colonial architectural stylings, emphasizing spacious backyards and oceanfront properties. This suggests a slower-paced, more relaxed lifestyle, focused on outdoor and leisure activities, aligning with lower urban lifestyle ratings. These contrasting elements play a crucial role in deciding where you might feel more at home.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Virginia Beach, VA

1. Oceanfront : You’ll love the numerous dog parks and pet-friendly beaches where you and your pet can enjoy the waves and the sand.

2. Hilltop : This area offers several pet-friendly shopping centers and green spaces, making it easy for you to include your furry friend in your errands and leisure time.

3. Chesapeake Bay : You’ll find it ideal for pets with its open spaces, scenic walking trails, and access to pet-friendly cafes and restaurants.

Chicago vs. Virginia Beach Weather Considerations

When planning a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the differences in climate you'll encounter. This comparison highlights the weather variations between Chicago, IL and Virginia Beach, VA, aiming to prepare you for the changes you'll experience. Understanding these differences will help you adapt more smoothly to your new environment.

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

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

83°F/63°F
87°F/70°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

31°F/17°F
50°F/32°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

36
44
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

36
6


The weather differences between Chicago and Virginia Beach are significant, especially when considering winter temperatures and snowfall. Virginia Beach experiences milder winters with less snow, making it an attractive option for those who prefer a more temperate climate. Additionally, Virginia Beach enjoys more days of sunshine and slightly higher humidity levels, which can influence your daily comfort and activities. Interestingly, both cities have their own set of natural disaster risks - with Chicago facing snowstorms and cold waves, while Virginia Beach is more prone to hurricanes and flooding. This information is key to preparing for seasonal changes and ensuring your new home is equipped for the local weather.

Ready to start your move?

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

When relocating from Chicago, IL, to Virginia Beach, VA, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison shines light on the differences in cost of living, taxes, and income between Chicago and Virginia Beach, helping you anticipate changes in your financial landscape.

Chicago
Virginia Beach
Avg. Household Income
$66,576
$81,634
Cost of Living Index
116.9
96.6
State Income Tax
4.95
5.75
Avg. Property Tax
2.10
1.00
Avg. Sales Tax
10.25
6.0
Top 3 Industries
Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology
Defense, Tourism, Agriculture
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Noticeable
Lower
Homelessness
Significant
Moderate

While the average household income in Virginia Beach is notably higher compared to Chicago, this increase is coupled with a slightly higher cost of living index. However, the burden of property and sales taxes in Virginia Beach is significantly lower, potentially offsetting the increased day-to-day expenses. This financial landscape is further influenced by the dominant industries in each location, with Virginia Beach's economy heavily supported by defense, tourism, and agriculture. This comparison is useful in gauging the overall affluence and quality of life you might expect after relocating, considering also the lower rates of poverty and homelessness in Virginia Beach compared to Chicago.

Chicago vs. Virginia Beach Political & Religious Comparison

Welcome to a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to help you understand the broad strokes of the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Chicago & Virginia Beach . This guide is meant to provide you with a glimpse into the communities you're moving from and to.

Chicago
Virginia Beach
Political Make-up
Lean Democratic
Lean Republican
Local Politics
City Governance
<a href="https://www.vbgov.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">City Governance</a>
Religion
Diverse, with no single denomination dominating
Largely Christian, with a significant presence of Baptist and Methodist communities

When moving from Chicago to Virginia Beach, you'll find the political landscape shifts from a historically Democratic dominance to an area where Republican views are more prevalent. This change mirrors the overall political inclinations of their respective states, Illinois and Virginia. The governance structure of both cities is accessible online, offering resources and insight into local legislation and community initiatives. Additionally, while Chicago's religious makeup is diverse, in Virginia Beach, you'll encounter a stronger presence of Christian denominations, particularly Baptist and Methodist communities. Understanding these differences can help you better integrate into your new home's social and political fabric.

Chicago vs. Virginia Beach Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

If you're considering a move from Chicago, IL to Virginia Beach, VA, it's crucial to understand how your daily commute and traffic experiences might change. This guide focuses on a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Virginia Beach, providing you with insights to better navigate your new city.

Chicago
Virginia Beach
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
34
24
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
8 out of 10
3 out of 10
Can you get by without a car?
Yes
No

In Chicago, the average commute time is significantly longer than in Virginia Beach, reflecting the city's larger geographical size and higher population density. With a high traffic congestion score, navigating Chicago can be challenging, but its robust public transit system, including buses and the "L" train, offers a viable alternative to driving. Conversely, while Virginia Beach has less traffic congestion and shorter commute times, its public transit options are limited. Relying on a car is almost a necessity in Virginia Beach for convenience and accessibility to various parts of the city and surrounding areas.

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