Moving from Chicago, IL to Ann Arbor, MI

Tree Town offers a world-class experience 

As home to one of America’s top public universities, Ann Arbor, MI, could coast on that prestige alone. But this picturesque Midwestern city of 125,000 people offers much more — a thriving business environment with a growing technology hub, a dedication to arts and culture, and, as you might guess, a whole bunch of trees (more than 50,000, if you’re counting!). It’s no wonder Ann Arbor tops the list of Best Places to Live for Quality of Life by U.S. News. 

Planning a move from Chicago, the country’s third largest city may have you wondering what’s in store. Get a feel for Ann Arbor and find out how easily and affordably you can relocate with U-Pack. 

A place that values education 

Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan are tightly intertwined. Even with an undergraduate enrollment of nearly 33,000, the average student-to-faculty ratio is 15:1, and the four-year graduation rate is 81 percent. Academic excellence isn’t limited to the university; Ann Arbor’s public schools are widely recognized as the best in the state. 

Need help getting settled on campus? We’ve got you covered! Check out this comprehensive college moving guide. 

Cultural activities enrich the community 

While there’s always something fun and exciting to enjoy in Ann Arbor, the city is never more alive than during fall Saturdays. More than 107,000 fans pack Michigan Stadium (a.k.a. The Big House) to cheer on the Wolverines’ football team. 

In the summer, that passion shifts to festival season. The main event is the Ann Arbor Street Art Fair, a downtown summer staple since 1960 that draws as many as a half-million visitors annually. There’s also Top of the Park (TOP), a free outdoor music and movie series, and astronomy enthusiasts can explore a state-of-the-art planetarium housed at the University of Michigan Natural History Museum. 

Remember, though, that large crowds packed into just 29 square miles of city space can create traffic congestion and limited parking during popular events. Plan your outings strategically! 

Take in the area’s natural beauty 

It’s been said that Michigan’s spectacular summers (like Chicago’s) are the reward for enduring long, cold winters. But while winters are snowy, they’re rarely extreme. Ann Arbor residents experience all four seasons. Walking, biking and water sports in the warmer months give way to cross-country and downhill skiing in the winter. 

According to the Trust for Public Land, 90 percent of Ann Arborites live within a 10-minute walk of a public park! Outdoors lovers can explore places like the Huron River, the Border-to-Border (B2B) Trail and Nichols Arboretum. 

Are you looking for a quick out-of-town getaway? Detroit is less than an hour’s drive from Ann Arbor, and three different Great Lakes are just three hours away. 

Long-distance moves are easier with U-Pack 

Travel from Chicago to Ann Arbor in your vehicle and on your schedule! When you move with U-Pack, you load your belongings into our equipment and meet them a few days later at your new home. Our nationwide coverage area makes it less stressful than DIY and more affordable than full service. Find out for yourself — get a free, no-obligation quote today.