When it comes to moving in Chicago, there are as many options as there are days of the year! If you’re relocating for a job or school, or even downsizing for retirement, you may not have that much say in exactly when you can move. But if you’ve just decided it’s time for a change, you might have some options. You may be able to extend your lease for a month or two in order to move at a time that is better for you, or perhaps to find a better option for your new living space.
When Is the Best Season for Moving in Chicago?
Every moving date has its advantages and disadvantages. If you have the option to move whenever you want to, it’s worth considering these. Perhaps there’s also a slower time of year at your job that might help make the process less stressful.
Chicago Moving in the Summer
Summertime in Chicago is a great time to move! The weather is better, and more homes and rentals are on the market. August is one of the busiest moving months of the year, when many college students are moving. However, you’ll find that if you look for apartments or homes in late April or May, you’ll find a lot more options than if you’re looking in February and March.
On the downside, it’s less likely you’ll be able to negotiate a better deal for your new home, as more people might be looking at the same homes that you are. And unless you book your moving company well in advance, you might not end up with one of the best moving companies in Chicago like Move-tastic!.
Chicago Moving in the Winter
Winter might not be the most ideal time to move in Chicago, but it certainly can be done. The professionals at Move-tastic! perform moves all year round, and have the expertise—and street salt!—required to accomplish a safe winter move. It is common to tape down floor protection to prevent the slush, salt, dirt, and water of the wintery outdoors from ruining your floors and carpets during your move.
Fewer apartments tend to be available to move into during Chicago’s winter months, but there are some advantages to this. Landlords may negotiate shorter leases or even lower rents for tenants looking to move in in the winter.
When Are the Busiest Moving Times in Chicago?
Summer is the busiest time of the year to move in Chicago. This is when most college students are moving in and out, and the weather is often ideal. Because so many people move during these months out of necessity, you might be better off moving another time if you have the option.
Two Main Chicago Moving Days
Out of the 365 calendar days of the year, the busiest two moving days are traditionally May 1st and October 1st. In fact, this is based in a bit of Chicago history!
Every landlord and real estate agent in the city is aware of this, and they plan accordingly. If you’re expecting to move in the next year, the month or two leading up to these dates will be the times when the most options are available.
Because these two days are the most common moving days out of the year, you might run into a few challenges if you want to move on May 1st or October 1st. First, it will be more difficult to book a great moving company like Move-tastic!. Second, if you’re moving into a building with many units, it’s more likely you’ll need to fight for elevator use, stairwell bandwidth, and/or truck parking spots. And competing for these amenities with a bunch of your neighbors can be tough!
When Are the Slowest Moving Times in Chicago?
Late fall and winter would be considered the “slow season” for moving in Chicago. From November through February, you’ll have far less competition for Chicago living spaces and moving resources. Moving companies are less in demand during the colder months, so you’ll have a better chance of moving on the exact date you want.
If you have questions about moving or you’re ready to book your move, just contact us! You’ll talk to a human and get started planning your next Chicago move.