2022 Guide to Chicago Neighborhoods and Suburbs

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If you’re thinking about moving to Chicago, you have an important decision to make. (No, not whether Giordano’s or Lou Malnati’s has the best deep dish.) You need to think carefully about where to lay down your roots.

Chicago is divided into 77 distinct community areas, which are then divided further into smaller neighborhoods (as many as 200). They’re an important part of the culture in Chicago, which is often collectively referred to as the “city of neighborhoods”.  


Chicago’s Neighborhoods

Chicago is home to affluent areas, working-class communities, bustling towns, and sleepy pockets of the city; there’s a diverse array of places to live within the city of Chicago. Here’s a statistical breakdown of the top Chicago neighborhoods and suburbs to help you narrow down your next hometown.

Use the drop-down to find any city in the Chicago area.

Albany Park

Population: 45,575

Median household income: $65,737

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,182

Zillow home value index: $384,483

Albany Park is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the country. It’s located in the Northwest side of Chicago and is fairly quiet and family-oriented. It has a low cost of living compared to other areas, especially its housing.

 

Andersonville

Population: 14,913

Median household income: $85,830

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,838

Zillow home value index: $604,733

Andersonville is a bustling, Swedish-influenced neighborhood on the Northside of Chicago. It’s home to tons of coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and parks, and has a welcoming, artistic vibe. Andersonville is also known for its thriving LGBTQ+ scene.

 

Arlington Heights

Population: 77,000

Median household income: $100,221

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,002

Zillow home value index: $427,953

Arlington Heights is one of the more affluent cities northwest of Chicago. It’s sometimes called “Action Heights,” an ironic nickname hinting at the fact that it’s really a sleepy suburb. It’s home to the famous Arlington Heights Race Track and a handful of celebrities even have homes there.

 

Beverly

Population: 27,330

Median household income: $100,631

Average 2-bedroom rent: $976

Zillow home value index: $417,451

Beverly is known for its incredible architecture and is one of the largest historic districts in the country. With deep Irish roots, Beverly is also home to Chicago’s annual South Side Irish Parade, a massive family-friendly celebration that takes place every St. Patrick’s Day. You can also find the most Irish pubs in the city along Western Avenue. 

 

Boystown

Population: 17,354

Median household income: $92,486

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,454

Zillow home value index: N/A

Formally known as Northalsted, Boystown is another LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhood in Chicago. In fact, it’s the oldest officially recognized gay neighborhood in the U.S.! Boystown is known for its great nightlife, eclectic shopping and some of the city’s most popular events.

 

Bridgeport

Population: 58,913

Median household income: $41,478

Average 2-bedroom rent: $791

Zillow home value index: N/A

Home to the Chicago White Sox and Guaranteed Rate Field, Bridgeport is a great neighborhood for baseball fans. Not into sports? Bridgeport also boasts an excellent art and cultural scene.

 

Bronzeville

Population: 2,876

Median household income: $30,979

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,250

Zillow home value index: $295,403

Bronzeville is Chicago’s hub of African American life and culture. Each August, more than one million spectators gather in Bronzeville for the Bud Billiken Parade, the country’s biggest African-American parade. You can also find a rich arts district and many galleries.

 

Bucktown

Population: 26,964

Median household income: $128,536

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,794

Zillow home value index: $650,319

Bucktown is a trendy neighborhood in Chicago that borders on Wicker Park. Due to the prices, it’s considered an upscale neighborhood. It’s a great place for walking, and you can find a ton of restaurants and shops along Damen Avenue.

 

Budlong Woods

Population: N/A

Median household income: $68,770

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,233

Zillow home value index: $324,332

Originally the site of a pickle farm, Budlong Woods is known for its quiet, tree-lined streets and family-friendly atmosphere. Legion Park borders its west side, where residents can enjoy hiking and sightseeing. 

 

Chicago Loop

Population: 26,081

Median household income: $149,688

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,875

Zillow home value index: $389,677

Also known as “The Loop,” this area is the heart of Chicago. You can find tons of shopping and dining options, plus many historic and architectural landmarks. While there’s plenty to do around Chicago’s Loop, it does get overcrowded during tourist seasons.

 

DeMotte (IN)

Population: 4,159

Median household income: $56,077

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,485

Zillow home value index: $247,034

DeMotte is a small town in Indiana, located about an hour away from Chicago. It’s home to the “Field of Dreams”, which features a jogging path, several fields, basketball courts, and a community pool. Residents also enjoy a local farmer’s market, as well as the annual Touch of Dutch festival.

 

East Village

Population: 3,724

Median household income: $47,103

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,504

Zillow home value index: $566,196

The East Village is a small neighborhood bordered by Division Street, Ashland Avenue, Chicago Avenue, and Damen Avenue (some claim it’s actually just part of Ukrainian Village). You’ll find many moderately priced single-family homes here. 

 

Edgewater

Population: 42,289

Median household income: $81,027

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,601

Zillow home value index: $261,484

Located between Rogers Park and Foster Avenue, Edgewater is home to stunning views of Lake Michigan, with miles of beaches and green spaces. It’s great for antique and vintage shopping, and is known for its theater district. At just two square miles, it’s a small neighborhood that still offers a short commute to the city.

 

Edison Park

Population: 11,178

Median household income: $116,503

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,854

Zillow home value index: $432,176

Located on the Northwest side of the city, Edison Park is a classic Chicago suburb with fairly affordable prices. It has a good nightlife and plenty of casual dining options. It’s also a convenient spot for commuting professionals due to the close proximity to downtown.

 

 

Elmhurst

Population: 45,326

Median household income: $123,869

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,415

Zillow home value index: $515,588

Located about 18 miles west of Chicago, Elmhurst is another family-friendly suburb. Many large corporations have their headquarters here. Residents enjoy spending time at Wilder Park, where there are always tons of activities and events. You can also find a lot of restaurants and museums here.

 

Forest Glen

Population: 8,173

Median household income: $121,600

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,176

Zillow home value index: $462,947

Forest Glen is a typical affluent, suburban Chicago area. It’s clean, quiet, and contains the Edgebrook and Sauganash neighborhoods. It’s a somewhat secluded area and sits on the city’s Northwest Side.

 

Geneva

Population: 21,247

Median household income: $116,083

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,999

Zillow home value index: $446,080

Located about an hour west of Chicago, Geneva is an upper-middle-class neighborhood known for its European architecture. It’s a tight-knit community that sits on the Fox River with good schools, lots of unique shops, and a fun downtown area.

 

Gold Coast

Population: 7,464

Median household income: $102,502

Average 2-bedroom rent: $3,707

Zillow home value index: $566,483

Gold Coast is bordered by Lake Michigan and North Avenue. It’s home to many historic homes, mansions and hotels, and is considered an upscale place to live. Here, you can find the International Museum of Surgical Science, as well as plenty of bars and restaurants.

 

Greektown

Population: 1,399

Median household income: $105,481

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,448

Zillow home value index: $390,297

Greektown is a vibrant section of the larger West Loop/Near West Side neighborhoods, known for its dining and nightlife. It blends urban life and Greek culture, and is highly walkable with plenty of public transportation access as well. 

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Hammond (IN)

Population: 76,984

Median household income: $46,974

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,036

Zillow home value index: $112,305

Located in northwest Indiana, Hammond is a top choice for residents who want close proximity to Chicago. In fact, it’s less than 30 miles from the Loop. Home prices are also more affordable compared to surrounding neighborhoods.

 

Horner Park

Population: N/A

Median household income: $78,704

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,112

Zillow home value index: N/A

Horner Park is perfect for nature lovers. Home to its namesake park, this neighborhood is filled with wide open spaces, scenic walking paths, and recreation areas. The Chicago River also runs through Horner Park, and it stands out as one of the quieter, more residential riverside neighborhoods.

 

Humboldt Park

Population: 3,583

Median household income: $42,735

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,096

Zillow home value index: $366,998

Another neighborhood surrounding a park, Humboldt Park has rich Puerto Rican Roots with traditional restaurants, colorful murals, and many cultural events. Locals divide it into two sections: East Humboldt Park, which borders Wicker Park, and West Humboldt Park, where the actual park is located and where homes are considered more affordable.

 

Hyde Park

Population: 27,724

Median household income: $55,872

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,152

Zillow home value index: $301,911

Sometimes referred to as “the culture coast,” Hyde Park is home to the University of Chicago and a rich cultural and art scene. It’s also where the Obama family lived before moving to Washington DC.

 

Joliet

Population: 150,372

Median household income: $72,871

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,132

Zillow home value index: $207,493

Joliet is a family-friendly town, with low crime, affordable housing, and plenty of sunny days. As the fourth largest city in Illinois, it has a more dense urban feel. That also means there is more diversity and a wide variety of entertainment and nightlife.

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Kenwood

Population: 16,150

Median household income: $51,608

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,348

Zillow home value index: $499,880

Bordering the North side of Hyde Park is Kenwood, where you’ll find impressive architecture (particularly, Art Deco), large single-family homes, and tree-lined streets. People who live here say it has a residential feel within an urban setting.

 

Lake View

Population: 71,785

Median household income: $115,878

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,585

Zillow home value index: N/A

Lake View (also spelled Lakeview) is a neighborhood on the North Side of Chicago. It sits on a stretch of the Lake Michigan shoreline and is popular among younger couples and professionals. Lake View is made up of several smaller Chicago neighborhoods, including Boystown and Wrigleyville. 

 

Lincoln Park

Population: 2,825

Median household income: $138,558

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,848

Zillow home value index: $596,382

Located about five miles north of downtown, Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s most affluent neighborhoods. It neighbors Lakeview, Bucktown, and Old Town, and is situated between the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. There are lots of restaurants and boutique shops, and plenty of entertainment. Lincoln Park is also home to DePaul University, the largest Catholic university in the U.S.  

 

Lincoln Square

Population: 11,154

Median household income: $88,737

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,357

Zillow home value index: $484,985

Lincoln Square is known for its German roots, and you’ll see those influences throughout the neighborhood. Lincoln Avenue features many unique shops and traditional restaurants and bars. You can also find the famous Davis Theater and Old Town School of Folk Music in Lincoln Square.

 

Logan Square

Population: 59,360

Median household income: $80,811

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,996

Zillow home value index: $484,705

Located on the Northwest side, Logan Square is known for its thrift stores, farmer’s market, and diverse cuisines. It’s a fairly expensive place to live compared to other neighborhoods, with homes in some areas worth several million dollars. At the same time, Logan Square also has lots of apartments home to artsy renters.

 

Lower West Side (Pilsen)

Population: 80,475

Median household income: $49,040

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,405

Zillow home value index: $384,489

Historically, the Lower West Side—also known as Pilsen—has been a working-class neighborhood and gateway for immigrants moving to Chicago. Today, it’s known as one of the hip Chicago neighborhoods that’s a haven for creativity with Eastern European and Latin influences. Here, you’ll find Thalia Hall and the National Museum of Mexican Art.

 

Magnificent Mile

Population: 52,432

Median household income: $129,630

Average 2-bedroom rent: $4,327

Zillow home value index: N/A

The “Mag Mile” is the heart of downtown Chicago and one of the most famous shopping areas in the world. In addition to giant shopping centers and luxury designers, you’ll also find countless coffee shops, restaurants, and iconic architecture. You can get a 360 view of Chicago’s skyline at 875 N. Michigan (formerly the John Hancock Center) or visit the Drake hotel’s historic Palm Court. You can also visit the Chicago Riverwalk and take a river taxi.

 

McKinley Park

Population: 19,046

Median household income: $46,518

Average 2-bedroom rent: $647

Zillow home value index: $300,545

Located on the Southwestern side of the city and bordering the Stevenson Expressway, McKinley Park is a casual neighborhood made up of homes largely built in the 1950s and 1960s. The neighborhood is relatively low-crime and affordable, with a mix of residential and commercial properties.

 

Michigan City (IN)

Population: 32,033

Median household income: $44,930

Average 2-bedroom rent: $956

Zillow home value index: $160,388

An Indiana suburb of Indiana that’s about 50 miles east of Chicago, Michigan City is known for having an outdoorsy culture. Since it borders Lake Michigan, it’s a popular beach town. Michigan City has a zoo, art museums, many local restaurants, and the popular Blue Chip Casino Spa and Hotel.

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Momence

Population: 3,094

Median household income: $51,554

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,070

Zillow home value index: $168,262

Located about 50 miles south of Chicago, Momence is a largely rural area with proximity to urban destinations. It’s a quiet, friendly, and somewhat conservative town that sits along the Kankakee River.

 

Morgan Park

Population: 26,427

Median household income: $67,897

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,043

Zillow home value index: $191,872

Located in the Southside part of Chicago, Morgan Park is full of cul de sacs, roundabouts, and tree-lined streets. There are many historic homes and mixed architectural styles. People sometimes combine the west side of Morgan Park and Beverly to refer to the Beverly/Morgan Park neighborhood.

 

Mount Greenwood

Population: 2,722

Median household income: $90,210

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,043

Zillow home value index: $298,009

Mount Greenwood is located at the Southwestern edge of Chicago. It’s largely residential, with a few campuses and parks. It’s a fairly quiet neighborhood, though there are several Irish pubs and sports bars to hang out at on Friday night. Many of the homes are bungalow style with front and back yards, making it a great place to raise a family.

 

Naperville

Population: 149,104

Median household income: $127,648

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,716

Zillow home value index: $504,668

Located along the DuPage River, Naperville is another affluent suburb outside of Chicago. It’s considered a top city to live in, with low unemployment, solid transportation infrastructure, and great education opportunities. It’s a family-friendly neighborhood with lots of shops, restaurants, historic sites, and a riverwalk featuring fountains and public art.

 

Near North Side

Population: 96,120

Median household income: $130,457

Average 2-bedroom rent: $3,340

Zillow home value index: N/A

Near North Side is a busy part of the city, with some of the most picturesque views of the downtown skyline. Residents tend to live in high-rise apartment condos due to the densely packed buildings in this area. There are plenty of food options, from fine dining to delis, and the neighborhood is great for walking. It also boasts a bustling nightlife.

 

Near South Side

Afternoon by Adler Planetarium in Chicago.

Population: 28,884

Median household income: $111,120

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,086

Zillow home value index: N/A

Just south of the Loop, Near South Side is known for its impressive medical facilities, including the historic Mercy Hospital. It’s also home to the NFL’s Chicago Bears and Soldier Field, McCormick Place, the Museum Campus, the Adler Planetarium, and Northerly Island.

 

Near West Side

Population: 76,608

Median household income: $106,126

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,694

Zillow home value index: $429,716

Also bordering Chicago’s Loop, the Near West Side is a more relaxed area with moderately priced homes. It’s home to several schools, including the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), Chicago-Kent College of Law, and City Colleges’ Malcolm X College. 

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North Center

Population: 30,359

Median household income: $117,131

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,803

Zillow home value index: $807,977

Sandwiched between Roscoe Village and Ravenswood, North Center consists of residential streets with European-style single-family homes. But there’s plenty to do, too, especially along Lincoln Avenue and Irving Park Road where you’ll find great dining options. There are also bars and breweries, as well as local venues where you can catch live music.

 

Norwood Park

Population: 46,084

Median household income: $83,979

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,102

Zillow home value index: $487,611

Norwood Park is one of the larger community areas that can be divided into six smaller sections: Big Oaks, Norwood Park East, Norwood Park West, Old Norwood Park, Oriole Park, and Union Ridge. While the nightlife isn’t as happening, you can find a wide variety of restaurants along Milwaukee Avenue, including the famous Superdawg Drive-in known for its Chicago-style hot dogs.

 

Old Town

Population: 8,001

Median household income: $106,789

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,334

Zillow home value index: $374,648

Old Town is located less than two miles north of downtown Chicago and a mile west of the lake. It borders Gold Coast and Lincoln Park, though its exact borders depend on who you ask. You can find just about anything you’d want to do here, from shopping to dining to comedy and entertainment. It’s also home to many luxury high-rise condos.

 

Park Ridge 

Population: 38,810

Median household income: $113,809

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,214

Zillow home value index: $515,803

Park Ridge is ranked as one of the best suburbs in Illinois. It’s located to the northwest of Chicago and home to many historical buildings such as the Pickwick Theater. You’ll also find attractions such as the Wildwood Nature Center, Park Ridge History Center, Centennial Park, and Des Plaines River Trail.

 

Portage Park

Population: 69,572

Median household income: $69,238

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,225

Zillow home value index: $384,723

At just four square miles, Portage Park is a smaller community area within Chicago. It’s known for the Six Corners—the intersection of Irving Park Road, Cicero Avenue, and Milwaukee Avenue—which is a major shopping destination ( although some like to argue that Six Corners is actually located in Wicker Park). If you’re looking for somewhere with plenty of space, Portage Park may be the place, as it’s mostly made up of single-family homes with garages and yards.

 

Printer’s Row

Population: 2,205

Median household income: $111,438

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,777

Zillow home value index: $288,087

Named for the printer and publisher buildings located here (many of which have been converted to lofts), Printer’s Row is a lively community in the South Loop. It’s home to the Annual Book Fair, as well as prestigious bookstores and restaurants.

 

Ravenswood

Population: 18,286

Median household income: $88,524

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,842

Zillow home value index: $543,731

Ravenswood is known as a great family community thanks to its quiet, tree-lined streets and proximity to parks and great schools. Ravenswood is famous for its courtyard-style residential buildings, surrounded by plenty of green space.

 

River North

Population: 15,909

Median household income: $140,611

Average 2-bedroom rent: $4,320

Zillow home value index: $299,404

River North is a vibrant community area with great culture and nightlife. It’s a favorite among those who appreciate fine art and upscale dining. As you might have guessed, it’s located north (west) of the Chicago River, above the Loop, and bordered by the Magnificent Mile.

 

Rogers Park

Population: 16,033

Median household income: $81,657

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,357

Zillow home value index: $242,842

Located on the city’s far north side along Lake Michigan, Rogers Park is known for its diversity of both residents and activities. It has parks, restaurants, and live music venues aplenty, and is home to both Loyola University and the Emil Beach House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.  

 

Roscoe Village

Population: 20,892

Median household income: $140,596

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,731

Zillow home value index: $801,804

The quaint neighborhood of Roscoe Village is located next to the larger Lake View area and is nicknamed “The Village Within the City.” It was originally developed as a residential neighborhood for factory workers. Here, you can find many brownstones and bungalows, as well as factory spaces that have been transformed into condos. 

 

South Chicago

Population: 48,836

Median household income: $41,037

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,059

Zillow home value index: $151,088

Formerly known as Ainsworth, South Chicago is a working-class neighborhood that sits near the southern rim of Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Calumet River. It’s one of four neighborhoods that make up Chicago’s South Side. It’s now a federally designated Opportunity Zone, an economic development tool that allows people to invest in distressed areas to spur growth.

 

South Loop

Population: 35,499

Median household income: $116,993

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,936

Zillow home value index: $392,586

The South Loop is a fun neighborhood that’s popular among the younger, affluent crowd. Residents live in high-rise condos overlooking the city. Grant Park, known as “Chicago’s Front Yard,” lives up to its name here.

 

South Shore

Population: 52,920

Median household income: $35,235

Average 2-bedroom rent: $974

Zillow home value index: $178,333

South Shore is a large community on Chicago’s South Side that’s known for historic mansions, proximity to the lake, lush green spaces, and beautiful city skyline views. It borders Jackson Park, a massive recreation area that includes a golf course, driving range, beach, Japanese garden, and more.

 

Streeterville

Population: 3,104

Median household income: $125,082

Average 2-bedroom rent: $3,853

Zillow home value index: $471,433

This energetic neighborhood is home to the famous Navy Pier, Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago Children’s Museum, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and much more. It’s situated between Magnificent Mile and Lake Michigan, and is very walkable. There’s no shortage of activities here.

 

Ukrainian Village

Population: 58,364

Median household income: $110,592

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,933

Zillow home value index: $546,582

Ukrainian Village is a mix of history and trendy living, and is one of several small neighborhoods that make up West Town. A diverse mix of people live here, including families, lifelong residents, young professionals and artists. 

 

Uptown

Population: 42,630

Median household income: $68,783

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,408

Zillow home value index: $335,461

Uptown’s history is steeped in the silent film industry. Essanay Studios is now considered a Chicago landmark, as is Hutchinson Street District. It offers an array of culturally diverse restaurants and thriving entertainment. Residents also enjoy Montrose Beach and access to the Lakefront Trail.

 

Waukegan

Population: 88,614

Median household income: $53,778

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,134

Zillow home value index: $197,179

Located on Lake Michigan, Waukegan is a larger suburban town known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Here, you’ll find the Waukegan History Museum, Jack Benny Center for the Arts, and the Genesee Theatre. Waukegan also has many parks, including Bowen Park, Waukegan Park District and Bevier Park.

 

West Loop

Population: 15,215

Median household income: $117,576

Average 2-bedroom rent: $3,372

Zillow home value index: $301,067

The West Loop sits west of Chicago’s downtown. It’s marked by sturdy brick buildings that once housed 19th-century meat packing businesses. Today, West Loop is home to boutique hotels, art galleries, and tons of great dining that can be found on Restaurant Row and the Fulton Market food hall. 

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West Town

Population: 121,991

Median household income: $102,451

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,999

Zillow home value index: $546,566

West Town is less of a clearly defined area and more of a collection of neighborhoods, including parts of the West Loop and Ukrainian Village. It’s home to some of Chicago’s highest-rated restaurants and music venues, as well as eclectic shopping and living areas.

 

Wicker Park

Population: 27,038

Median household income: $125,726

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,185

Zillow home value index: $621,109

Wicker Park is one of Chicago’s most popular neighborhoods, especially among younger professionals. It neighbors Bucktown to the south and the two areas’ borders are often blurred. Wicker Park offers a variety of home types, from condos to single-family homes. But, it’s a pretty expensive part of town to live, due to the fact it’s a highly coveted area.  

 

Woodstock

Population: 25,646

Median household income: $69,470

Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,131

Zillow home value index: $277,696

Woodstock has a small-town feel, yet is rich with arts and culture. The streets are lined with many historic buildings and the town square is also a historic landmark. You’ll find the world-renowned Opera House here, as well as plenty of outdoor space, shopping, restaurants, and good schools.

 

Wrigleyville

Population: 3,143

Median household income: $115,878

Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,394

Zillow home value index: $516,691

Home to the historic Wrigley Field and Chicago Cubs, Wrigleyville is a small neighborhood within the larger Lake View area. It can get pretty crowded and noisy on game days, but the rest of the time, it’s actually a pretty quiet neighborhood. If you’re not a baseball fan, there’s still plenty to do here, including visiting parks, coffee shops, and high-end bars.


Find Local Movers in Chicago, IL

When you’ve picked out the perfect neighborhood and are ready to make the move to Chicago, there are a number of reputable moving companies to choose from. Below is a list of prices and details* for 26 moving companies that have been vetted by HireAHelper and that serve Chicago and its surrounding areas

24-7 Moving LLC

Location: Chicago, IL

Service Area: Within 100 miles

Cost: $97/hr. for 2 movers after 3 hr. min

Allstar Movers

Location: Schaumburg, IL 

Service Area: Within 24 miles

Cost: $99/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. minimum

Couch Potatoes, LLC

Location: Chicago, IL

Service Area: Within 60 miles

Cost: $123/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

Elite Jays

Location: Des Plaines, IL

Service Area: Within 14 miles

Cost: $200/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

Executive Moving Services, LLC

Location: North Chicago, IL

Service Area: Within 90 miles

Cost: $135/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

Go Hard Transports

Location: Oak Park, IL

Service Area: Within 100 miles

Cost: $70/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

Heaven Moving & Cleaning Services

Location: Chicago, IL

Service Area: Within 30 miles

Cost: $120/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

Help by Hixon

Location: Chicago, IL

Service Area: Within 50 miles

Cost: $106/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

Honeypot Enterprises LLC

Location: Chicago, IL

Service Area: Within 100 miles

Cost: $85/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

J.C. Movers & Lumber Services, Inc.

Location: Hillside, IL

Service Area: Within 100 miles

Cost: $85/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

Just Us Movers

Location: Maywood, IL

Service Area: Within 100 miles

Cost: $100/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. minimum

Lavoe Movers

Location: Chicago, IL

Service Area: Within 100 miles

Cost:  $95/hr for 2 movers after 2 hr. minimum

Logan Lift Express

Location: Bellwood, IL

Service Area: Within 60 miles 

Cost: $100/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. minimum

John 3:16 Movers

Location: Oak Forest, IL

Service Area: Within 95 miles

Cost: $90/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. minimum

Master Core Movers

Location: Hobart, IN

Service Area: Within 36 miles

Cost: $120/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. minimum

Meryen City Moving Inc

Location: Chicago, IL

Service Area: Within 30 miles

Cost: $100/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

Move Mania Inc

Location: Bolingbrook, IL

Service Area: Within 25 miles

Cost: $176/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

Movemasters

Location: Berwyn, IL

Service Area: Within 100 miles

Cost: $90/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

Packed Moving Services

Location: Chicago, IL

Service Area: Within 50 miles

Cost:  $120/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

Ro’s Movers

Location: Oak Park, IL

Service Area: Within 40 miles

Cost: $60/hr. for 2 movers after 3 hr. min 

S & L Express Moving Services

Location: Bloomingdale, IL

Service Area: Within 40 miles

Cost: $99/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

ShowTimeMovers LLC

Location: Calumet City, IL

Service Area: Within 50 miles

Cost: $130/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

The Move Team LLC

Location: Mundelein, IL

Service Area: Within 100 miles

Cost: $100/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

Transition Movers

Location: Joliet, IL

Service Area: Within 15 miles

Cost: $100/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

True Moving Solutions

Location: Skokie, IL

Service Area: Within 50 miles

Cost: $78/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

Two Brothers Movin

Location: Melrose Park, IL

Service Area: Within 60 miles

Cost: $85/hr. for 2 movers after 2 hr. min

*Prices as of Sept. 2022

Other Surrounding “Chicagoland” Suburbs

Although the city of Chicago boasts dozens of unique neighborhoods, there are also many suburbs outside of Chicago proper. These areas offer similar character and proximity to the city, but often, a lower cost of living. 

Addison

Population: 36,482

Median household income: $67,337

Average rent: $1,016

Zillow home value index: $304,691

Find Local Movers in Addison, IL

Barrington

Population: 10,217

Median household income: $117,931

Average rent: $1,395

Zillow home value index: $492,562

Find Local Movers in Barrington, IL

Deerfield

Population: 18,646

Median household income: $153,431

Average rent: $1,785

Zillow home value index: $515,575

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Des Plaines

Population: 58,889

Median household income: $69,760

Average rent: $1,162

Zillow home value index: $315,062

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Downers Grove

Population: 49,057

Median household income: $94,893

Average rent: $1,351

Zillow home value index: $391,885

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Elmhurst

Population: 46,746

Median household income: $118,609

Average rent: $1,497

Zillow home value index: $480,993

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Evanston

Population: 73,473

Median household income: $78,904

Average rent: $1,376

Zillow home value index: $486,657

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Glen Ellyn

Population: 27,714

Median household income: $110,678

Average rent: $1,508

Zillow home value index: $428,473

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Glencoe

Population: 8,826

Median household income: $248,851

Average rent: $1,327

Zillow home value index: $1,241,038

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Glenview

Population: 47,308

Median household income: $248,851

Average rent: $1,574

Zillow home value index: $576,648

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Highland Park

Population:  29,515

Median household income: $150,269

Average rent: $1,888

Zillow home value index: $602,391

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Highwood

Population: 5,224

Median household income: $150,269

Average rent: $1,754

Zillow home value index: $398,818

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Hinsdale

Population: 17,637

Median household income: $203,368

Average rent: $1,416

Zillow home value index: $943,035

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Kenilworth

Population: 2,475

Median household income: $227,404

Average rent: $1,287

Zillow home value index: $1,515,164

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Lake Bluff

Population: 5.562

Median household income: $164,421

Average rent: $1,283

Zillow home value index: $523,294

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Lake Forest

Population: 19,446

Median household income: $172,165

Average rent: $2,326

Zillow home value index: $880,692

Find Local Movers in Lake Forest, IL

Lincolnshire

Population: 7,893

Median income: $116,316

Average rent: $1,849

Zillow home value index: $549,718

Find Local Movers in Lincolnshire, IL

Lincolnwood

Population: 12,245

Median income: $95,030

Average rent: $1,894

Zillow home value index: $456,226

Find Local Movers in Lincolnwood, IL

Lisle

Population: 23,270

Median income: $90,588

Average rent: $1,279

Zillow home value index: $323,412

Find Local Movers in Lisle, IL

Lombard

Population: 44,303

Median income: $82,461

Average rent: $1,472

Zillow home value index: $302,671

Find Local Movers in Lombard, IL

Northbrook

Population: 32,958

Median income: $124,863

Average rent: $1,513

Zillow home value index: $583,275

Find Local Movers in Northbrook, IL

Oak Brook

Population: 8,016

Median income: $141,055

Average rent:$2,449

Zillow home value index: $701,494

Find Local Movers in Oak Brook, IL

Oak Park

Population: 52,381

Median income: $94,646

Average rent: $1,926

Zillow home value index: $449,547

Find Local Movers in Oak Park, IL

Park Ridge

Population: 36,950

Median income: $111,642

Average rent: $1,451

Zillow home value index: $478,979

Find Local Movers in Park Ridge, IL

Skokie

Population: 62,700

Median income: $73,046

Average rent: $1,360

Zillow home value index:  $380,110

Find Local Movers in Skokie, IL

South Barrington

Population: 4,996

Median income: $73,046

Average rent: $1,360

Zillow home value index: $866,391

Find Local Movers in South Barrington, IL

Westchester

Population: 16,117

Median income: $138,828

Average rent: N/A

Zillow home value index: $304,070

Find Local Movers in Westchester, IL

Westmont

Population: 24,443

Median income: $64,416

Average rent: $1,139

Zillow home value index: $318,480

Find Local Movers in Westmont, IL

Wilmette

Population: 27,089

Median income: $164,681

Average rent: $1,484

Zillow home value index: $797,480

Find Local Movers in Wilmette, IL

Winnetka

Population: 12,316

Median income: $250,000+

Average rent: $1,258

Zillow home value index: $1,383,190

Find Local Movers in Winnetka, IL


Sources:
Population (2019): https://www.city-data.com/
Median income (2019): https://www.city-data.com/, U.S. Census Bureau
Average rent (2022): Apartments.com, RentCafe
Zillow home value index (2022): Zillow.com

Illustrations by Naomi Ann Clarke

The Cities with the Most AAPI Diversity in the US (Besides NYC and San Francisco)

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My partner is Chinese-American, so ideally he and I would like to put down roots in a city with a not insignificant Asian-American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) population. (This rules out cities that might have made my list back when it was just me, my white self, and I.)

In the past, we’ve lived—both separately and together—in diverse places like Boston, New York, Los Angeles, Rockville, Maryland, and Portland, Oregon. Yet ultimately, we want to live in a city that currently has an Asian population significantly higher than the national average, which hovers right around 7%, according to Pew Research Center

The reasoning of course is for both comfort and safety reasons. But while we want a piece of that suburban pie, we’d also like to give ourselves a liiiittle bit of distance from big city life. (Ideally, we’d live just far away enough that we can watch House Hunters without stewing in shame over the amount we pay to live on the square footage of a postage stamp.)

But what is anyone’s option for a more suburban and affordable lifestyle within a city or town that isn’t exclusively white? I’m so very glad you asked, since we’re sharing all the research we did for ourselves.

Our search for an Asian community as an interracial couple

Really quickly before I dive in, I want to note a couple things.

First of all, I’ll be citing two statistics for each location: the “Asian alone” population percentage from the United States Census Bureau, which includes solely those responders who are “reporting only one race”. For living purposes, I’m also citing the median gross rent for 2015-2019, a representation of what a middle-of-the-bell-curve citizen pays every month in rent and utilities. (Basically, this is an all-inclusive housing cost, which for your reference is $1,664 in West Hollywood—a number that’s lower than our outright rent… so I guess take these with a grain of salt?)

 

“…we want to live in a city that currently has an Asian population significantly higher than the national average, which hovers right around 7%, according to Pew Research Center.”

 

I point out that first statistic to underline that these aren’t necessarily the most diverse cities overall, as we’re seeking solely the percentage of Asian populations for our particular situation.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Median Gross Rent: $1,745

A big part of my brain doesn’t think I’m allowed to live in a place like Hawaii, because it feels like a reward I haven’t earned. But if I can get past the mental block of whether or not I deserve to live and work on a tropical island, it actually seems like a great setup. In a reversal from every other city on this list, Caucasians are in the minority in Honolulu—people of solely Asian descent represent 42.9% of the population, as compared to 17.9% white people. And that doesn’t even include native Hawaiians or Pacific Islanders (9.6%), or those who represent multiple races (22.8%), which boosts the numbers even higher.

Seattle, Washington

Median Gross Rent: $1,614

Across the pond and nestled snuggly into my beloved Pacific Northwest, we have chilly little Seattle, one of the few cities on this list that my partner and I have visited together. We stayed in a pretty industrial area during our visit, which neither of us was super keen on, but I’m still thinking about our day trip out to Bainbridge Island. I’m betting there’s a neighborhood that would check all our boxes.

At the end of the day, it’s hard to argue with the gorgeous views, fresh seafood, and younger-skewing demographics—plus it hits our checkboxes with an Asian-American population of 15.4%.

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Portland, Oregon

portland

Median Gross Rent: $1,248

Sooner or later, they all come crawling back. (At least, according to my social media-stalking of my former high school classmates.) I’ve so far resisted making the full move back to my hometown, but it always shimmers on the horizon. And now that I’m back on the same coast, it feels like just a matter of time. This is especially due to the fact that while Portland has a genuinely terrible record in terms of a lot of diversity, it does host a not-too-shabby Asian population at 8.2%, so it’s worth considering for us. Rents seem great at the moment, but once we’re looking to buy property, we’d probably steer clear of the Portland housing market for a few years, because it is going absolutely bananas right now.

San Diego, California

san diego

Median Gross Rent: $1,695

There are quite a few cities in California that match our requirements, but since I didn’t want to pull more than one option from any given state, the best choice is definitely San Diego. My partner and I visited earlier this year, and all I kept saying was, “Los Angeles wishes!” Same gorgeous weather as LA, same basic lifestyle vibe, similar diversity (with 16.9% Asian population), but cheaper, less sprawling, and way more laid back. (Sorry, LA, but you are a bit of a try-hard in the coolness department.) 

Chicago, Illinois

chicago

Median Gross Rent: $823

Continuing our jaunt eastward, we have to leapfrog a few particularly homogenous states before landing in the lovely little enclave that is Chicago. This is another city that I visited and just had an absolute blast in, although I’ll note that it was in summer, and I’m told that to really get a feel for it, I need to try my hand at Chicago in the winter. But I adored the energy. I found the public transportation system super intuitive, and I simply love to see a median gross rent in the triple-digits.

And while the Asian population currently registers at 6.6%, the midwest is currently home to the fastest-growing Asian American communities, so I’m betting that number will rise. Plus, my partner and I both do long-form improv (humiliating), so Chicago would be an excellent place to keep our comedic skills sharp.

Austin, Texas

austin

Median Gross Rent: $1,280

I gotta be honest, I initially thought the majority of the South would probably be out, but Texas went and surprised me! I’ve not had the pleasure of visiting the state in the past, but I always toyed with the idea of moving to Austin, which I’ve been told has similar vibes to Portland. With an Asian population of 7.6%, it’s just above the national average. But the fact that there’s a significant Latinx community (33.9%) is a nice boost to our search. So Barton Springs, here we (maybe) come!

Newton, Massachusetts

newton

Median Gross Rent: $1,940

After a decade in New York City, I’m a little hesitant to settle in a nearby city like Boston. I scooted next door to Newton to check out the scene and am very happy with what I found.

Once again, it’s close enough to the city that we wouldn’t have to quit urban sprawl cold turkey, but could instead take it in manageable doses. Plus, Newton actually has a significantly larger Asian population—14.8% compared with Boston’s 9.7%—along with great public schools, a suburban feel with great parks, coffee shops, restaurants and multiple awards for being one of the nicest places to live in the United States. (One con? It also has the prices to go with all those pluses.)

Rockville, Maryland

rockville

Median Gross Rent: $1,921

Alright, if my hometown can be on this list, so can his. Not only does Rockville boast a double-digit Asian population at 21.1%, but it’s truly a suburban dream. Rockville is both close enough to DC that it’s not a total nightmare to get to, but secluded enough that I can sleep through the night without getting jolted awake by car alarms or helicopters like we do in LA. Plus, my partner still has a tightly-knit community of friends out there that would be amazing to live nearby. 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

PHILADELPHIA

Median Gross Rent: $1,042

Once again, Philly is just a sliver above the national average at 7.2%, but I’m leaving Philadelphia on the list because I’m intrigued, okay?

Personally, I visited the city once, back in college, and found it very approachable with locals who are very direct, which is a personality type I absolutely love. Plus, I feel like I can’t stop reading headlines about what a great place it is to live, with excellent historical and cultural institutions, and an impressive confluence of affordable housing and job growth. 

Fort Lee, New Jersey

fort lee

Median Gross Rent: $1,923

Does it feel absolutely counterintuitive for me to move all the way back to within eyeshot of New York City without actually moving into the city itself? Yes, yes it does, which is why Fort Lee is at the very end of the list. But it has an Asian population of 42.5%, which is exactly what we’re looking for!

But for me, I’ve already lived at one end of the George Washington Bridge and had about as great an experience as I’d imagine I could, living in a well-priced Manhattan studio for seven glorious years. Trying my hand at a life on the opposite side of the bridge feels like it would only invite—and suffer from—comparison. But truly, all the blessings in the world to everyone who does live there now.


Final protip

Those are the cities we have so far, but to add to the list, my partner had an excellent suggestion that you could potentially use as well: search H-Mart locations. (If a city has an H-Mart, you should consider moving there regardless, because it’s an incredible store.)

If you’re searching for “asian communities near me”, this can also tell you that the area has the population to support this kind of store, and is a great indicator for pockets of diversity that might not necessarily show up in the cold hard stats I’m relying on here.

Illustrations by Celine Lau

Professional Mover: ‘This Is What I’ve Discovered Makes You Happy While Moving’

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My husband Dan and I have moved ten times in eleven years.

Crazy, right? We crisscrossed the country from Massachusetts to Maryland to Ohio to California to Illinois to Tennessee and back to Illinois. We both took turns following each other’s dreams, moving for our education and for our work.

To keep my sanity during those moves, especially when we added three kids into the mix, I developed what I call The Art of Happy Moving.

I made it a blog, then I made it a book. I know moving happily sounds like an oxymoron, but after all my moves, I finally figured out that it doesn’t have to be.

Make a list of three (and only three) reasons you feel excited about your move

The Art of Happy Moving, by Ali Wenzke

There are two choices related to emotions that turn your move into a happy move.

First, you can choose to focus on the positives instead of ruminating on the stressful parts. Easier said than done, I know, but the way to begin the process is to make a list of three (and only three) reasons why you feel excited about your move.

Happiness research shows that we feel happier when we list three reasons to feel grateful (instead of, say, thirteen.) So, write down your three reasons and keep that piece of paper handy as you pack your millionth box.

Recognize that you have a choice

Your second emotional hurdle might be to realize you do have a choice whether to make this move or not, even if it may not seem like it at first.

Why are you moving? Life event? Rent? Opportunity?

Maybe you’ve been out of work for a while and you received a job offer in a city where you’d rather not live. One couple I interviewed found themselves in this sticky situation.

“Decluttering for a move is different than decluttering to spark joy.”

His story: John relocated his family to small town Georgia for a new job, even though he did not want to move. Since John had been unemployed for a while, he felt like he had no other options.

In contrast, his wife Alison made that move to Georgia with a positive attitude because she believed they did have a choice. If they hadn’t moved, she figured they could stay in Florida and move in with John’s parents until he found a local job opportunity. Because Alison saw and pursued a variety of alternative options, this helped her feel in control of the situation.

Your happiness will increase if you explore your options and reframe your move so that you realize that you likely do have a choice in the matter.

Use a pro’s checklist to organize and simplify your move

The Moving Checklist at HireAHelper.com

When I meet with people to discuss their moves, they sometimes feel discouraged by how many little details they need to remember. Moving logistics can overwhelm you if you let them.

Happy moving means figuring out the best ways to categorize and organize a move so that you feel less stressed. And yes, there are easy ways to do that.

The first thing you can do is to lay out what you might forget by using a moving checklist. There are a lot of good ones out there. Check out this robust moving checklist. I also have free downloads on my blog.

All you need to do to have an organized move is to start checking items off items from a professional’s list who has already thought of everything for you.

Declutter to make moving, packing and unpacking easier (and less expensive)

If you only did one single thing on this list, I think my most effective tip for happy moving is to get rid of everything you own. Seriously. It’ll make your move so much easier.

Okay, if you absolutely must move with your twenty-five favorite pairs of jeans (or your kids), here are three easy tips to help you declutter.

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First, start with the heavy items in your house. Decluttering for a move is different than decluttering to spark joy. It costs money to move heavy or large items like books and furniture, so you necessarily need to start there. (There are very cost effective ways of moving stuff when you hire movers by the hour, by the way.)

Second, gather similar items into one area and create a “store”. Choose which t-shirts or books you want to “buy” and donate or sell everything else. I call this the “Toy Store Method”. It’s shockingly effective to use my Toy Store Method to declutter with kids, too, so try it out.

“The odds you’ll succeed at your resolutions are far greater after a new move than after a new year.”

Third, just ask for help! If you feel emotionally attached to your things and this is hard for you, ask for help from a friend or a family member who can guide you through the simplification process.

Strong relationships help mitigate moving unhappiness

Every happiness study highlights strong personal relationships as a main indicator of happiness.

This is why I started writing The Art of Happy Moving. I moved from Chicago to Knoxville, Tennessee, and it was tough to make friends in a city where I didn’t know anyone. After so many moves, it surprised me how difficult it was to meet people. The loneliness hit me harder than I expected.

happy moving

That’s when I learned that many other movers found themselves in the same situation of feeling alone in an unknown place.

For a happy move, make it a priority to spend time with family and friends before you move. Schedule a girls’ night out or a weekend potluck and leave the moving boxes behind for a while.  

After you move, make an early effort to get involved in the community. Try things like meetup.com, Facebook event browsing, or even local papers. But there is a catch!

Over the past several years of moving, I’ve taken group guitar classes, knitting lessons, and I’ve volunteered for local non-profits. The secret to making friends is to do something that you love for you, not just to make a friend. People can smell desperation (believe me, I know), so find time to do things for yourself and like-minded friends will find you.

Take advantage of the proven fresh start that moving offers to create new habits

Your move is an opportunity to start life over.

Ali Wenzke

One of the biggest mistakes that people make when they move is that they focus so much on the moving logistics that they don’t think about what happens after the move. You can be anyone you want to be. One research study found that 36% of successful habit changes could be attributed to a move to a new place.

That’s why it’s a shame if you don’t take advantage of the break in routine to create new habits.

If you want to eat healthier, mediate more often, or spend quality time with loved ones on a regular basis, plan ahead and prioritize these goals so you can achieve them in your new home. The odds you’ll succeed at your resolutions are far greater after a new move than after a new year.


Ali Wenzke is the creator of the blog The Art of Happy Moving. After a decade of numerous moves, she is now happily settled in the Chicago suburbs with her husband, three children, and a secret stash of chocolate chip cookies. She doesn’t plan on moving any time soon.

The Rise of Plastic Storage Companies, and What It Means for Movers

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You don’t have to be an industry insider to know that the self-storage industry is booming. Drive around Anytown, USA and it’s almost impossible not to notice those orange-and-gray, or orange-and-purple, or green-and-white facilities popping up all over the place. Even if you round down SpareFoot’s numbers from 2016, the country is currently at over 50,000 self-storage facilities generating over $30 billion in annual revenue.

Crazy numbers, for sure. And guess what? Things are only just beginning to get interesting. We’re seeing the emergence of a lot of small (for now) companies offering services beyond typical self-storage – services that were virtually unheard just a few years ago.

MakeSpace and Clutter Surge

MakeSpace.com

Consider MakeSpace, a New York City outfit that has raised $47.5 million in venture capital in just the last two years. Not your average self-storage provider, MakeSpace packs, picks up their customers’ excess belongings and brings it all to their storage facility. Customers don’t need to think about how much storage space they need because they don’t actually have to rent storage units. They don’t have to worry about getting their stuff moved to a certain place and time because MakeSpace does all the back-and-forth for you. And since their storage facilities are located in what TechCrunch describes as “less desirable areas” outside prime real estate locations that are fairly removed from the residential areas they serve, MakeSpace can rent space at a lower cost, thereby reducing operating expenses.

Besides New York, MakeSpace operates in Los Angeles, Chicago and Washington, D.C., serving tens of thousands of customers, that according to CEO Sam Rosen.

Meanwhile, Clutter of Culver City, CA, operating on a similar business model, has expanded beyond Los Angeles to serve San Francisco, San Diego, Seattle, Chicago, and states New York and New Jersey. As of June 2017, they have raised $96.5 million in venture capital – double that of MakeSpace. According to Forbes, they plan to infiltrate every major city in America and several more abroad.

Millions in capital, global plans … there must be a lot more people out there with a lot of stuff willing to pay extra for this ultra-convenient, self-storage service.

The Rise of Plastic Bins

Of course, not everyone is looking for self-storage. Some people just need to get their stuff from Point A to Point B. Unsurprisingly, the range of services for these people has exploded too, starting with the U-Haul revolution and the rise of ABF Freight, followed by the portable storage container craze and – ahem – the wild growth of the moving labor sector.

It turns out this is the one place eco-conscious people choose plastic over paper.

Yes, we’re seeing now that people want to be green as much as they want to save green – and we see that customers are looking for even more alternatives when they move. And one of those alternatives involves cutting back on all that cardboard and tape.

Enter the gorillas and the kangaroos.

Redi-Box.com

Since 2011, Gorilla Bins of New York City has been renting out black plastic bins two weeks at a time. (They know it takes a lot more than a day to pack and unpack!) And they aren’t the only ones touting the three-point “We drop them off – You use them – We pick them up” service line, inspiring plenty of imitators. Redi-Box is ready with their red bins in Chicago and Portland. Rent a Green Box covers Los Angeles and Orange Counties with their (of course) green plastic bins. Hopping around the Springfield, MO area we have Roo Rent a Box and their stacks of gray bins.

There are many players in this plastic bin rental game. Their prices and policies may vary, but they all operate on the same fundamental idea. (Really, the biggest question right now might be who will end up buying out who down the road.)

Also of note, a company named Bin-It is running a similar operation out of their northern New Jersey headquarters, serving not only the New York area but Philadelphia, Indianapolis and Nashville. Yet unlike the gorillas and kangaroos, Bin-It also offers storage, bridging the service gap between valet storage and simple moving bin rental.

It probably goes without saying (but we’ll say it anyway) that this plastic bin rental business is a local thing. It’s conceivable that in the future we’ll see this change as some of these bin-renters extend their reach further across the country and can handle the logistics of tracking and managing their bins in the same way U-Haul manages their trucks.

For now, despite the impressive growth of this eco-friendly niche, it looks like the trend of renting plastic bins instead of using cardboard boxes will remain an aspect of the local move market.

How Does This Impact Movers?

So what does this have to do with all of us in the moving labor industry?  

It surprisingly doesn’t, directly. But say someone calls you up asking if you offer storage services. “No,” you say. But your conversation shouldn’t end there. This person needs a service and seems not sure where to turn. By pointing them in the right direction, you are not only helping them, you’re also tossing a biscuit of friendship to the people you are referring them to. “Tell them Kevin at HireAHelper sent you,” you might say. Or Mark at Mark’s Movers, or whatever the case may be.

You recommend them, they recommend you, and everybody gets a business boost. This dynamic works especially as long as storage bin companies exist as a local enterprise.

The same dynamic can work with the valet storage niche, as well as the emerging plastic moving bin rental market. These companies are directly tied to the storage and moving industry, just like us. Yet they occupy a different niche. So rather than competing, our services are almost always perfectly complementary.

Likewise, those customers looking for that environmentally-friendly alternative to cardboard boxes are potential customers too. The bin-renters generally don’t offer actual moving services, so the door is wide open.

At the same time, be aware that a few other valet storage providers and bin renters have had the same brilliant idea, and have begun creating those collaborative partnerships with a few local movers. So don’t wait! Get online, get on the horn, pick up the phone and get out there! Meet these new players in the storage and moving industry. There may never be a better ally, or imposing competition, depending who gets there first.


Header image by MakeSpace.com

6 Things You Need to Do If You’re Moving to Chicago

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Category: Neighborhood Advice

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So you’re moving to Chicago? First off, welcome! We are so excited that you’re settling down in The Windy City. As lifelong Chicagoans, we may be a bit biased, but we happen to think this Midwest city is the best there is. There’s just no place like sweet home Chicago!

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5 Things to Ask Before You Move Into a City Apartment

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Category: Loading & Unloading Guides, Moving Day

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So you’re all set to move into your new downtown apartment! Congratulations! You’ve got your life loaded up and your old life is in the rear view mirror of a U-Haul. Nothing to do now but set up the new pad and get your new life in the city rolling!

Wait!

There’s more to moving into a new apartment building than just picking up your key and having your buddy hold the elevator. City buildings likely come with a whole list of rules and regulations for moving in, so whether you are moving by yourself or hiring movers to do it for you, it’s wise to contact your building manager ahead of time for the complete run-down. With that in mind, here’s a list of five questions that should top your moving day FAQ.

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