Factors that influence moving costs from Chicago to Lubbock
What to know before moving from Chicago to Lubbock
Moving from Chicago to Lubbock means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Chicago than in Lubbock, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Chicago compares to Lubbock so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Chicago | Lubbock | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $2,045 | $1,250 |
Average home value | $295,743 | $199,759 |
Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $58,626 |
Cost of living (single person) | $3,648 | $1,715 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $9,266 | $3,996 |
Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 5.9% |
Sales tax | 10.25% | 8.25% |
State income tax | 4.95% | 0.0% |
- Rent prices in Lubbock are 39% lower than in Chicago, which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
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In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Lubbock.
Home prices in Lubbock are 32.5% lower than in Chicago. - Income in Lubbock is 18.1% lower than in Chicago, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Lubbock include Texas Tech University, Covenant Health System, and Lubbock Independent School District.
- The cost of living for a single person in Lubbock is 53.0% lower than in Chicago. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Lubbock is 56.9% lower than in Chicago.
- The unemployment rate in Lubbock is 34.44% lower than in Chicago.
- Youโll spend less on retail and restaurants in Lubbock, since the cityโs sales taxes in Lubbock are 19.51% lower than in Chicago.
- One perk of moving to Lubbock is paying less in state income taxes, which are 100.00% lower than in Chicago.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,410.36 in Lubbock to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Chicago.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Lubbock
Lubbock | Chicago | |
---|---|---|
Population | 263,930 | 2,746,388 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 3 | 9 |
Walkability score | 39 | 77 |
Bike friendliness score | 43 | 72 |
Crime Index | 50.39 | 35.19 |
Safety Index | 48.61 | 33.87 |
Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Lubbock's population is about 90% less than Chicago.
- Lubbock's public transportation has a score of 3 out of 10 versus Chicago's higher score of 9.
- Lubbock is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 39 out of 100 vs Chicago's 77 out of 100.
- Lubbock has a bike-friendliness score 43 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.
- Lubbock's crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 50.39 compared to Chicago's 35.19. This means that Lubbock neighborhoods are safer than 50.39% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- Lubbock is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 48.61 vs Chicago's 33.87.
- Air quality in Lubbock is good, and in Chicago it's good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago vs. Lubbock move
- Weather: Although in many parts of Texas hurricanes and extreme heat may affect your move, this is less of a concern in Lubbock. Local climate shouldn't play a big role in your move to Lubbock.
- 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: In-state movers operating in the Lone Star State are legally required to be licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV), which issues 10-digit TXDMV numbers to commercial carriers. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can verify a Texas moving license and its status through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: Texas 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 Lubbock. Get started here.
- Moving company insurance: Every state requires moving companies to carry different levels of insurance.In Texas, movers typically provide Released Value Protection at no additional cost, covering items at 60 cents per pound. For enhanced protection, consider discussing Full Value Protection options with the moving company. Alternatively, explore third-party insurance providers for customized plans. It's crucial to understand coverage limits, potential additional costs, and read reviews to make an informed decision about your moving insurance in Texas.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Lubbock
Now that you've decided to make the move to "Hub City", these are the best neighborhoods to move to in Lubbock.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Tech Terrace
- South Overton
- North Overton
- Northridge
- Lakeridge
Best neighborhoods for families
- Rush
- Vintage Township
- Tech Terrace
- Kingsgate
- Lakeridge
Things to do in Lubbock
After settling into your new Texas home, youโll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Lubbock has lots to offer, no matter what youโre interested in:
- Arts and culture: Lubbock is home to museums and cultural arts centers like the The Buddy Holly Center, National Ranching Heritage Center, Science Spectrum Museum, Silent Wings Museum, and American Wind Power Center.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Maxey Park, Alex & Verna Cooke Park, Mackenzie Park, and Prairie Dog Town โ among other sites โ are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Texas Tech Red Raiders, Lubbock Renegades, or Lubbock Matadors game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Lubbock?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Chicago to Lubbock. Youโll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Chicago.
When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to Lubbock?
Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from Chicago to Lubbock, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.
How long does a move from Chicago to Lubbock take?
The 1,140-mile journey from Chicago, IL to Lubbock, TX typically takes two to eight days. Some movers in Chicago offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Lubbock.