Chicago to Minneapolis Relocation Guide – Lifestyle & Moving Tips

Relocating from Chicago to Minneapolis is a popular Midwest move for families, professionals, and retirees seeking a high quality of life with cleaner air, abundant parks, and strong community spirit. Known as the Twin Cities (Minneapolis and St. Paul), the area offers world-class arts, Fortune 500 companies, and four distinct seasons without Chicago’s extreme wind and density. This comprehensive guide covers lifestyle differences, costs, neighborhoods, and the moving process — based on our years of helping Chicago residents make this smooth transition.

Chicago to Minneapolis relocation guide - lifestyle and moving tips

Lifestyle Comparison: Chicago vs Minneapolis

Both cities are Midwest gems, but with distinct flavors:

Chicago: Dense urban core, deep-dish pizza, blues, skyscrapers, Lake Michigan beaches
Minneapolis: Cleaner, greener, bike-friendly, 10,000 lakes, craft beer, theater scene
Weather: Similar winters (both cold!), but Minneapolis gets more snow and less wind
Culture: Chicago intense and diverse; Minneapolis progressive, outdoorsy, “Minnesota Nice”
Pace: Chicago fast-paced; Minneapolis relaxed and community-oriented

Many Chicagoans love the extensive park system, shorter commutes, and family-friendly vibe.

Cost of Living Comparison

Category	Chicago	Minneapolis	Difference
Median Home Price	$345,000	$365,000	Minneapolis +6%
Avg. Rent (1-bed downtown)	$2,100	$1,750	Minneapolis cheaper
State Income Tax	4.95% flat	5.35%–9.85%	Chicago lower for most
Property Tax Rate	2.23%	1.16%	Minneapolis lower
Groceries & Dining	Index 101	Index 98	Minneapolis cheaper
Overall Cost Index	105	102	Minneapolis lower

        Financial Insight: Lower property taxes and overall costs often balance higher income tax for many Chicago transplants.
    

Best Minneapolis Neighborhoods for Chicago Families

Downtown Minneapolis

Urban energy, skyways, theater district

Uptown

Lakes, dining, young professionals

Edina

Top schools, upscale suburbs

St. Louis Park

Family-friendly, parks, affordable

Northeast Minneapolis

Artsy, breweries, historic homes

St. Paul (Highland Park)

Quiet, green, excellent schools

Moving Process: Chicago to Minneapolis

Shortest interstate route: I-90 West to I-94 West — approximately 410 miles.

Transit time: 1–2 days
Delivery window: 2–5 business days
Best months: May–October (avoid winter storms)
Winter-rated trucks recommended for snow

Why Illinois Movers Inc. Excels on Chicago → Minneapolis Routes

We run this route frequently and know every mile of I-94. Our crews use air-ride trucks for smooth delivery and provide direct service — no consolidation.

Licensed USDOT #2628513 | MC #914433 | CMA Certified Trusted Mover | 4.8★ rating.

Frequently Asked Questions – Chicago to Minneapolis Relocation

How long does Chicago to Minneapolis take?

1–2 days transit, 2–5 day delivery window.

How much does it cost?

Average 3-bedroom: $2,800–$4,500.

Is winter moving risky?

We use winter-rated trucks and monitor lake-effect snow.

Best neighborhoods for families?

Edina, St. Louis Park, Highland Park (St. Paul).

Do you move to St. Paul too?

Yes — full Twin Cities coverage.

Do you offer storage?

Yes — secure facilities in both cities.