Chicago is big, bold, and full of life. It pulls in new people every single day.

Living in Chicago, IL? Things to know before moving can save you time and cash. This guide covers the basics.

Aaron Bros Moving System, Inc. has moved local families since 1969. Here is what we tell each new neighbor.

The Weather Is No Joke

Winter is cold here. Snow shows up from December through March.

Wind off the lake makes it feel worse. Good boots and a warm coat help a lot.

Summer flips the script. Days turn hot and damp near the lake.

Pack your winter gear where you can grab it. You may need it on day one.

Pick Your Block With Care

Chicago has 77 community areas. Each one feels like its own small town.

Hyde Park is calm and full of books. The West Loop is loud, new, and full of food.

Bronzeville mixes old homes with deep history. Every part of town has a mood.

Visit at a few times of day. Walk the block on a weekday and on a weekend.

Check the train stop, the store, and the park. Those three things shape your week.

You May Not Need a Car

The CTA runs trains and buses all day. Locals call the trains the “L.”

Trains go to both airports. That fact alone saves new folks a lot of cash.

Metra trains link the city to towns farther out. They work well for job trips.

Plenty of people here own no car at all. Bike lanes and rideshare fill the gaps.

Parking Rules Can Trip You Up

Park on the street and you need a city sticker. Buy one within 30 days of your move.

Many blocks are permit only. Your guests may need a pass too.

From December to April, some main streets ban parking at night. That ban runs 3 a.m. to 7 a.m.

Read every sign twice. Tickets and tow fees add up fast.

What It Costs to Live Here

Rent runs lower than in New York or the Bay Area. That fact shocks a lot of people.

Still, taxes are steep. Sales tax and property tax both rank high.

Save up for a deposit. Many buildings ask for the first month too.

Work and School Options

Jobs here span many fields. Health care, tech, trade, and finance all hire.

The Loop holds most of the big offices. Many people work from home part of the week.

Public schools use a choice system. Some spots ask you to apply early.

Ask about school zones before you sign a lease. It can shape your whole search.

Chicago Homes Have Quirks

Lots of homes are two-flats or three-flats. Walk-ups with no lift are common.

Stairs get narrow. Doorways get tight.

Many buildings sit on alleys. Trucks load from the back.

Tall buildings have rules. Most make you book the freight lift ahead of time.

Measure your couch before the truck shows up. Trust us on that one.

Timing Your Move Day

Many leases start on the first of the month. May 1 and October 1 are the busiest.

Summer weekends book up fast. Lock in your date early.

Street fairs and races close roads all summer. Check the city calendar first.

Save a Spot for the Truck

Curb space is gold in this city. A full block means a long carry.

You can ask your ward office for no-parking signs. They hold the curb on your move day.

Put in that ask a few weeks out. It is worth the small fee.

Food, Fun, and Free Things

Deep dish gets the fame. Locals eat thin crust just as much.

Try an Italian beef. Never put ketchup on your hot dog.

The lakefront trail runs for miles. It is free and open to all.

Beaches and fests fill the summer. Winter brings ice rinks and warm bars.

Living in Chicago, IL? Things to Know Before Moving: Quick List

  • Update your license and car papers.
  • Buy your city sticker.
  • Check permit parking on your block.
  • Ask your building about lift rules.
  • Book your movers early.

Let Aaron Bros Moving System, Inc. Do the Heavy Work

Our family has moved Chicago people since 1969. We know the alleys, the walk-ups, and the one-way streets.

We plan around tight blocks and busy dates. You get a crew that has done this a lot.

Call Aaron Bros Moving System, Inc. today for a free quote. Let us take the hard part off your hands.