($1,391) Movers From Chicago, IL to Baltimore, MD

What to know before moving from Chicago to Baltimore

Moving from Chicago to Baltimore means adjusting to a different pace of life — and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Chicago than in Baltimore, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how Chicago compares to Baltimore so you know what to expect before you relocate:

• Rent prices in Baltimore are 22% lower than in Chicago, which means you’ll have more money in your pocket each month.
• In terms of homeownership, you’ll be able to get more for your money in Baltimore.
  Home prices in Baltimore are 38.9% lower than in Chicago.
• Income in Baltimore is 18.5% lower than in Chicago, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Baltimore include Social Security Administration, Laureate International Universities, and Fitch Co.
• The cost of living for a single person in Baltimore is 39.1% lower than in Chicago. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
• The cost of living for a family in Baltimore is 45.1% lower than in Chicago.
• The unemployment rate in Baltimore is 12.22% lower than in Chicago.
• You’ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Baltimore, since the city’s sales taxes in Baltimore are 41.46% lower than in Chicago.
• State income taxes in Baltimore are 16.16% higher than in Chicago.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,828.13 in Baltimore to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Chicago.

How life is different in Chicago vs. Baltimore

• Baltimore's population is about 79% less than Chicago.
• Baltimore's public transportation has a score of 8 out of 10 versus Chicago's higher score of 9.
• Baltimore is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 64 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
• Baltimore has a bike-friendliness score 53 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72 out of 100.
• Baltimore's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 72.72 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Baltimore neighborhoods are safer than 72.72% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
• Baltimore is considered to be less safe than Chicago with a score of 27.28 vs Chicago's 33.87.
• Air quality in Baltimore is good, and in Chicago it's good.

Other things to consider for your Chicago vs. Baltimore move

• Weather: Baltimore has long hot summers, cool winters, and a summer peak to annual precipitation. Spring and autumn are warm, with spring being the wettest season in terms of the number of precipitation days.
• HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
• Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator you'll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
• Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
• State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Maryland, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
• State regulator: You can verify a Maryland moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
• Moving permits: Maryland does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
• Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to Baltimore. Get started here.
• Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.In Alabama, Released Value Protection stands out as the most economical option, incurring no additional costs. Provided by movers at no extra charge, it offers minimal coverage at 60 cents per pound per article. For those seeking comprehensive coverage, it is advisable to consult with your chosen moving company for alternative options or explore third-party insurance providers.
• Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.

Where to live in Baltimore

Now that you've decided to make the move to "America's Comeback Cit", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Baltimore.

Helpful moving resources