Moving from Chicago to New York City

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Moving from Chicago to New York City

Chicago has plenty of great things to offer including a stunning skyline, incredible pizza, and a deep-rooted love for the Cubs but if you have decided to leave Chicago, Illinois to take root in New York City, you are in for quite an adventure. While life in NYC won’t come cheap, the city has some incredible benefits that you just won’t find anywhere else making the high cost of living worth it to many people. Trading the Windy City for the Big Apple will certainly be an adjustment, but one See for yourself what makes NYC such a great place to live and get tips to help with your relocation.

Move to NYC from Chicago

Benefits of Moving from Chicago to New York City

New York City is one of the most iconic cities in the world and a place where so many can only dream about living. Despite its reputation for being a tough place to live, there are also countless reasons to love the city. It is a city that is bustling with things to do, great places to eat, and adventures to seek out. Below are just a few of the reasons why NYC is a great place to call home.

Career Opportunities

No matter your career path, there is something for everyone in New York. Whether you are seeking a career in theater, acting, fashion, finance, business, marketing, or healthcare, there is sure to be a place to find work in a huge metropolis like New York City. In fact, some of the largest corporations in the world have made their home in NYC including Pepsi, JP Morgan & Chase, Citi, Verizon, Dior, Pfizer, and so many more.

Great Public Transportation

Coming from a city like Chicago, you will understand the importance of good public transportation. No more waiting for hours in bumper to bumper traffic and fighting over a parking space. NYC has transport down to a science with subways and trains that are so convenient that you will never need to own a vehicle as long as you live in the city. Thanks to the city’s public transportation system, you can be just about anywhere in the entire city in less than 40 minutes. This is a huge convenience for big city living.

Incredible Views

While Chicago definitely has some impressive skyscrapers, nothing compares to the views of the Manhattan skyline. There is nothing like it anywhere in the world and it’s a view that never gets old. Even long time New Yorkers are still in awe of the city’s amazing architecture and the beauty of the city.

Cultural Diversity

New York City is truly the epitome of a melting pot. There are so many different cultures represented in this one city and you get the chance to experience all of them without ever leaving the city limits. People from all over the world and all walks of life come to New York City with dreams of living in this incredible place.

Fantastic Entertainment

No matter what kind of music you like, you can rest assured your favorite musician will make their way through New York City at some point. From sold out shows at Madison Square Garden to brand new artists getting their start in a local bar, there is never a shortage of good entertainment in NYC. The Big Apple is home to an array of music and entertainment venues including MetOpera, Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall, and Broadway.

Incredible Shopping

If shopping is your thing you have come to the mecca of shopping when you arrive in New York City. Check out the chic boutiques in downtown SOHO or dazzle in your favorite designer stores on 5th Avenue. No matter your style or your budget, you can be sure to find something unique in New York City.

Foodie’s Paradise

No matter where you live in New York City, every borough is home to its own variety of culinary options. Enjoy a fine dining experience from world-renowned chefs or grab some of the most delicious street food you have ever tasted. And of course no visit to New York would be complete without eating the pizza! You can rest assured that your taste buds are in for a treat when you move to New York City.

Vibrant Nightlife

They don’t call it “the city that never sleeps” for no reason! NYC is your premiere destination for exciting nightlife. New Yorkers are known for working hard but they are also known for their ability to party. There is no shortage of bars, clubs, lounges, rooftops, or restaurants in New York City so you can always find a place to relax and let loose.

So Much to Do

New York City is literally bursting with things to do. Start by taking a stroll through the world famous Central Park and then check out some of the city’s world-class museums. Take a ride to the top of the Empire State Building or catch the ferry out to the Statue of Liberty. Cheer on one of the city’s pro sports teams or catch a concert at Madison Square Garden. You can also spend an evening at a Broadway play, dining at one of the city’s incredible restaurants, or just taking in the sights and sounds of Times Square. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, there are plenty of nearby beaches where you can spend a relaxing weekend.

Cost of Moving from Chicago to New York City

Moving can be expensive and no one understands that better than Allied. That’s why we strive to provide customers with professional moving services that are also affordable. The average linehaul moving cost from Chicago to New York City with Allied is $5,076.

There are many factors, however, that will determine the exact price such as the exact distance of the move, the number of items being moved, and additional services such as packing and unpacking. The best way to get an accurate quote is by using our Instaquote listed above.

Cost of moving from Chicago to New York

Additional Considerations for Your Move to New York City

Detailed Cost Breakdown

To effectively plan your budget for the move, it's important to understand the costs involved. In New York City, housing can be significantly more expensive than in Chicago. 

  • For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan can be $4,054 per month, while in Chicago, it's typically around $2,529. (1)
  • Utility costs in NYC are also slightly lower, with an average monthly bill of around $173 compared to Chicago's $184. (1)
  • Groceries, dining out, and entertainment can also be about 20-30% more expensive in New York City. (1)

These figures are estimates and can vary based on lifestyle and exact location within the cities.

Housing Information

New York City's housing market is diverse and dynamic. Popular neighborhoods like Manhattan's Upper East Side or Brooklyn's Williamsburg cater to different lifestyles and budgets. For more affordable options, areas like Astoria in Queens or Jersey City across the Hudson River offer great value. Securing housing in NYC often requires a broker, and it's common to pay a broker's fee of up to 15% of the annual rent. It's also important to act quickly when you find a suitable place, as the market moves fast.

Lifestyle Changes

Moving from Chicago to New York City brings significant lifestyle changes. New York is known for its fast pace, with a vibrant, 24-hour lifestyle. The weather is similar, with cold winters and hot summers, but NYC can feel more humid in the summer. Cultural adjustments include a more diverse population and a wide array of international cuisines and cultural events. The city's pace can be overwhelming at first, but many find the energy and opportunities exhilarating.

Job Market and Employment Resources

New York City's job market is vast and varied, with strong sectors in finance, media, fashion, and technology. Networking is key in NYC, and resources like LinkedIn, local industry meetups, and professional associations can be invaluable. Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Built In NYC are great for job searching. The city also hosts numerous career fairs and networking events, providing opportunities to connect with potential employers.

Education and Schools

New York City offers a wide range of educational options, from public schools to exclusive private institutions. The public school system is the largest in the United States, and school choice can depend heavily on your residential area. For higher education, NYC is home to renowned institutions like Columbia University, New York University, and the City University of New York (CUNY) system. Researching schools and districts is crucial for families moving to the city.

Healthcare Facilities

New York City boasts some of the world's best healthcare facilities, including hospitals like Mount Sinai, NYU Langone, and NewYork-Presbyterian. To find and register with a local doctor or healthcare provider, platforms like Zocdoc can be useful. It's also important to understand your health insurance coverage, as this can dictate which providers you can access.

Public Transportation Details

New York City's public transportation system is extensive and efficient, making it easy to get around without a car. The subway system operates 24/7 and covers all boroughs. Familiarize yourself with the MTA website and apps like Citymapper for real-time transit information. Remember, rush hour can be very crowded, and it's important to factor in extra travel time.

Local Resources and Community Information

To integrate into the community, explore local resources and groups. Websites like Meetup.com offer groups for various interests. Local community boards and neighborhood associations can also be great resources. For parents, local parenting groups on Facebook or apps like Peanut can provide support and connections.

How to Move from Chicago to New York City

Moving from one city to another can be a challenge, especially when you are moving to a city like New York. In order to ensure a seamless move, you should enlist the help of a professional moving company. Allied has been moving customers like you for more than 90 years so we know exactly what it takes to execute a seamless relocation. From packing and loading to transporting and unpacking, we handle it all. Our goal is to take the stress out of moving so you can sit back, relax, and focus on your new life in New York City.

Call Allied today to find out about our moving packages or start by using our Instaquote tool.

Sources:

(1) https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/compare_cities.jsp?country1=United+States&city1=Chicago%2C+IL&country2=United+States&city2=New+York%2C+NY

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