Moving from Anchorage to Chicago

Moving from Anchorage to Chicago is a huge change. Anchorage is the most populous city in Alaska, but Chicago has nearly ten times as many residents. Moving to a large city is exciting. There are numerous opportunities for employment, and there is always something fun to do. So, if you are considering a move, Chicago is an excellent place to start a new life. 

Benefits of Moving from Anchorage to Chicago

There will be many changes when you move from Anchorage to Chicago. However, there are also many benefits to this move. Unlike Anchorage, the Windy City is jam-packed with things to do, people to meet, and places to see. 

Milder Weather

The weather in Chicago is cold during the winter, but it should be a cakewalk after living in Anchorage. During the summer, spring, and fall, you will enjoy nice days that make spending time outdoors desirable. Plus, many of the upscale areas in town have built-in heaters on the sidewalks to make winter more enjoyable. 

Lower Cost of Living

The cost of living in Chicago is cheaper than Anchorage. An average-sized home in Chicago is nearly $100,000 less. So, you can purchase a larger home for the same price. The cost of utilities, food, and other necessities is also more affordable than Anchorage. So, you will be well on your way to saving money in your new home.

Festivals, Concerts, and Events

As a major city in the United States, Chicago always has something going on. There are many festivals and events throughout the year that you can enjoy as a resident. Some of the most popular events attract people from around the world. Here is a list of some of the experiences you might want to check out: 

• Lollapalooza
• Chicago Jazz Festival
• Expo Chicago
• Chicago Chinese New Year Festival 
• Chicago Marathon 
• Zoolights at Lincoln Park Zoo 

Great Places to Eat

You will find plenty of options in Chicago if you wish to enjoy a fine dining experience with your significant other or grab a quick bite to eat. There are all of the favorite chain restaurants, as well as places that are unique to the city. A few of the most popular places to eat in town are: 

• The Purple Pig - Mediterranean Cuisine 
• Oriole - Fine Dining
• Montverde Restaurant and Pastaficio - Italian Cuisine
• Au Cheval - American Food
• Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria - Chicago-style Deep Dish Pizza

Amusement Parks and Attractions

Chicago is home to some fantastic attractions and amusement parks. If you are moving to the area with your family, you will always have something exciting to do. Below are some of the most popular attractions in the area: 

• DisneyQuest
• Pirate’s Cove Children’s Theme Park
• Six Flags Great America
• Santa’s Village Azoosment Park & Waterpark 

Sports Teams

If you love sports, you will love living in Chicago. The city has been named the "best sports city" in the country several times. It is home to major league basketball, baseball, and football teams, and there are several minor league teams in the area. Residents enjoy attending these events or watching them in the many sports bars in the city. 

Neighborhoods in Chicago

Due to the size and population of Chicago, each neighborhood offers residents a unique experience. Some communities are more affordable than others, and some offer residents more amenities. So, when you are planning to move to the city, it helps to know which neighborhood best suits you. 

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is a bustling area, and many young people live in the area. The area is busy with plenty of places to enjoy a night out on the town or a show at one of the many concert venues in Lincoln Park. The neighborhood is also home to the Chicago Zoo and hosts many festivals. 

Magnificent Mile 

Magnificent Mile is a commercial district with high-class restaurants and high-fashion boutiques. If you enjoy the finer things in life, this is the place for you. There are also several historic sky-scrapers and an observation deck you can visit for breathtaking city views. 

Logan Square

Logan Square is roughly three square miles of theaters, taverns, and cocktail bars. The bungalow and brownstone building lined streets are beautiful. There are plenty of housing options in this area with close access to nightlife, restaurants, and attractions. 

Hyde Park 

Hyde Park is home to the University of Chicago, and it is a very artsy area of town. You can explore the many museums during the day and hit the city at night for drinks with friends. Hyde Park gives you the best of both worlds, beautiful mature trees, historic buildings, and modern amenities. 

Lakeview

Lakeview or Lake View is a more laid back neighborhood that borders Lake Michigan on the eastside. There are townhomes and single-family homes in the area. You can also enjoy visits to the lake, watch movies at the Landmark Century Cinema, workout at the Calisthenics Park, and experience live music at The Vic. 

How to Move from Anchorage to Chicago

Anytime you move, there are some things you need to consider. Making a sound plan will help ensure your move is less stressful. While winging it can be exciting, making a plan will give you more security. 

Save Money

Luckily, when you move from Anchorage to Chicago, you will enjoy lower living costs. However, you still want to have some savings, especially if you plan on looking for a job after you arrive in Chicago. The amount you will want to save will depend on your unique situation, but it is a good idea to have at least a few months of savings if you are looking for work. 

If you already have a job, you do not have to save as much, but it is still a good idea to have a bit of money to fall back on when you move to a new city. Plus, it will give you some money to explore your new home. 

Find a Job

The job market in Chicago is highly competitive. If you are planning on moving to the city because you received a job offer, congratulations, you are ahead of the game. If you still need a job, it is a good idea to look for one before moving. 

Choose a Moving Date

Choosing a moving date will depend on whether you have a family or you are moving by yourself. If you have children, you might want to wait until school is out. However, if you plan to move during the summer, it is a good idea to start looking for housing as early as possible. If you are single, you can move whenever you want, but keep in mind the housing market is usually best for buyers in late spring and early summer. 

Decide Where You Want to Live

One of the biggest decisions you make when moving to Chicago is finding a place to live. You will want to move to the neighborhood where you will want to spend the most time. Visiting the city before you move is a great way to explore each of the communities and secure housing. 

Setup Your Utilities

A big step in your move will be setting up your utilities at your new home. You will want to make sure your electricity, gas, and water are on before you arrive, especially if you are moving during the winter. You also may want to have your cable and internet scheduled when you arrive in town. 

Hire a Reputable Moving Company

Hiring a moving company is an essential step in moving to a new city. Unlike a short move to a neighboring town, moving from Anchorage to Chicago will require more planning. You need to make sure everything is packed and ready to go on moving day. A reputable moving company can help you get everything in order and safely transport or store your belongings, so you have everything you need when you arrive at your new home.