Living in Chicago puts you undoubtedly close to all of the amazing events, entertainment, sports, and more that occur in the city. With one of the largest food and drink scenes in the country, incredibly diverse neighborhoods all with their own rich history, and amazing museums and cultural institutions to enjoy for the entire family (not to mention amazon parks and beaches!)Chicago has a little something for everyone.
However, what do you do when you want to live close to all the goings-on of Chicago, but want a little breathing room from the hustle and bustle of city life? You can find your answer in Evanston, IL, a popular suburb that puts you very close to the city, but still lets you enjoy your quiet time. If you’re considering a move, check out this Evanston IL moving guide to help you navigate your relocation smoothly.
Why Move to Evanston, IL?
Beyond just living close to Chicago, Evanston, IL has a lot to offer locals and new residents alike. At a glance, living in this area allows you to enjoy a convenient commute to work in the city, or be a short subway ride away from a concert or sports event – all without the hassles or concerns that come with living in a major city.
Evanston, IL provides an amazing quality of life for the people who live there, as well as a great balance for those looking to be close to Chicago but away from city life. It offers a laid-back suburban lifestyle but will have all of the Chicagoan perks – but less of the noise!
Regardless of all of the huge benefits that come with moving to Evanston, however, you should always do your complete research whenever it comes to anywhere you’re looking to move. Some of the biggest benefits come with the schools, the job market, and the economy.
However, when it comes to researching any place you might move to, not everywhere is going to be right for everyone. Do your complete homework and look into the environments and neighborhoods you’ll be a part of when you move to this area, as well as the costs associated with doing so before making your move. Want to learn more about the benefits and drawbacks to living in Evanston, IL before you move here? We’ve got everything you need to know about this suburb.
Pros of Living in Evanston, IL
Though located just 13 miles away from Chicago’s center, Evanston has thriving scenes of its own in the world of arts, culture, and food. The area also has a ton of opportunities for indoor and outdoor recreation for the entire family, as well as amazing restaurants and breweries. Regardless of where you may live, Evanston has something for you.
Besides its overall atmosphere, what are some other upsides of living in Evanston? Let’s find out!
- Outdoor Space: Evanston’s 77 amazing public parks give you a huge break from your everyday life and allow you to enjoy the great outdoors – even if you just stay near your home. This suburb has so many parks that on average, each home in the area is located within a half-mile of one. The suburb is also home to 5 amazon beaches along Lake Michigan that will keep your summers enjoyable and sun-drenched.
- Schooling: With top-rated public school districts, Evanston is a great place to move for families or for people looking to start one. 23 out of its 36 public schools receive a grade of A or higher in quality. In addition to excellent schools, Evanston offers a safe environment, beautiful parks, and a close-knit community—perfect for raising children and building a strong foundation for the future.
- Location: Though Evanston is a lot more than just its proximity to Chicago, it is undoubtedly a huge perk of living in the area. Directly connected to the city through the Red and Purple metro lines (plus many bus lines), you’ll have easy access and an easy commute for work or entertainment. On top of that, Evanston offers scenic lakefront views, charming neighborhoods, and a vibrant local culture full of shops, dining, and events.
- Low Crime: Evanston is an extremely safe area for families and individuals alike, and has very low crime rates. This sense of security allows residents to enjoy neighborhood parks, attend community events, and explore the town freely without concern. The city also benefits from strong local policing and active community involvement, which further contributes to the overall safety.
- Job Market: Both on its own and when adding Chicago’s job opportunities into the mix, the possibilities for gainful employment are nearly endless in Evanston. On top of this, Evanston’s job market has higher average salary rates than many other parts of the country. The city also supports a strong entrepreneurial spirit, with plenty of coworking spaces, networking events, and resources for startups and professionals looking to grow their careers locally.
If you’re relocating for any of these benefits, choosing reliable Chicago moving companies will help you transition with ease.
Cons of Living in Evanston, IL
We’re not going to lie, we really had to look for drawbacks of living in Evanston, IL to complete this list! That being said, no area is perfect for everyone, and might not work with everyone’s lifestyles. The following are some of the cons of living in Evanston, IL.
- Weather: The most glaring downside of living in Evanston (and the region as a whole) is its particularly brutal winters, which can reach sub-zero temperatures. There is also a lot of snowfall throughout the winter – though this can be a perk for some! Proper preparation and warm clothing are essential.
- Cost of Living: Evanston is on the expensive side as far as housing and overall cost of living goes, coming in at 20 points above the national average. It’s also more expensive on average than most areas of Chicago. It also has higher transportation costs, with the area coming in at 29% higher than the national average.
- Housing Costs: As we mentioned, Evanston does have high housing costs. The cost of buying a home in the area is 45% higher than the national average. However, many residents feel the price is worth it for the access to top-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, and the city’s overall quality of life.
Despite these considerations, many still find Evanston an amazing place to call home. If you’re ready to make the move, connect with top-rated moving companies in Chicago like Hollander Moving & Storage to make the process seamless.
Top Moving Tips for Evanston Residents
Even with professional movers, your move to Evanston will go more smoothly if you follow these tips:
- Reserve Parking: When moving into a condo or apartment, be sure to check with your building manager about elevator access and parking permits to ensure a smooth move-in process and avoid any unexpected issues.
- Label Boxes Clearly: To make unpacking faster and easier, use a color-coded system or clearly label boxes by room. This helps you and movers know exactly where each box belongs, saving time and reducing confusion.
- Pack an Essentials Box: Prepare a moving day essentials kit with toiletries, medications, snacks, and a change of clothes. Having these items handy ensures comfort and convenience during the move, helping you stay organized and stress-free.
- Update Your Address: Remember to update your address with USPS, banks, subscription services, and your employer to ensure all your mail and important communications reach you without interruption after your move.
- Explore the Neighborhood: After settling in, explore Evanston’s charming walkable downtown, beautiful beaches, and welcoming community centers. These spots offer great ways to connect with neighbors and enjoy the vibrant local culture and outdoor activities.
Trusted Evanston Movers: Hollander Storage & Moving Company
Hollander Storage & Moving Co. stands out among top Chicago moving companies, offering professional, reliable, and efficient services for residential and commercial relocations. With over a century of experience, Hollander is a trusted name when it comes to moving companies in Chicago, known for its commitment to customer satisfaction and smooth moving experiences. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, our team of expert Chicago movers ensures your belongings are handled with care. We also offer secure storage solutions to meet short- and long-term needs. Choose Hollander for a stress-free, full-service move backed by decades of expertise.
Ready to Make Your Move?
Contact Hollander Moving & Storage today for a free quote and see why Evanston residents rely on their trusted, reliable moving services. Whether you’re moving locally or long-distance, our experienced team ensures a smooth, hassle-free experience from start to finish. Call now at 847-439-2140 to get started or get a free quote now!
